Skin problems not only effect those in their teens, adult acne is also a very common occurrence, in today’s society. Adult women are more apt to suffer from acne than men. Adult men are at higher risk in terms of permanent scaring, caused by acne problems. Contrary to what most people think, adult acne is NOT caused by improper hygiene.

In truth, acne is caused by a number of different things. Oily skin, hair ducts that do not close as they should and infection are three key factors which lead to skin problems. These factors remain the same, in both adults and teens. (How’s that for thinking you wouldn’t get acne, because you are an adult.)

Pimples occur when dead skin, small deposits of fatty tissue and keratin get clogged in a hair duct. When the duct is open, this clogging produces a “blackhead”. When the duct is closed, it is referred to as a “whitehead”. Because a whitehead is closed, in most cases, it will eventually rupture. This bursting causes the redness and infection of adult acne.

There are many myths associated with adult acne. Dermatologists tell us that acne is not caused by eating chocolate, fish or oily foods. Stress, in itself, does not cause acne. However, there are certain stress-relieving drugs that have been known to cause skin conditions.

Acne does not clear up faster if you wash your face several times a day or sit out in the sun. Acne is not caused by dirt. Washing your face many times a day can actually do more harm than good. Sitting in the sun only darkens your skin and can cause scaring.

Remember, if you are battling a skin condition, you are not alone. There are numerous ways to treat the problem. You do not have to live with adult acne forever!