What Makes Adult Acne Different?

First: What Is Adult Acne?

Adult acne (also called post-adolescent acne) refers to breakouts that happen after age 25. You might’ve had acne as a teen that never quite went away—or you might be experiencing it for the first time as an adult. Either way, you're not alone.

And no, it’s not your fault.

 

How Adult Acne Is Different From Teen Acne

 

Why Am I Still Breaking Out as an Adult?

There are a few common reasons why adult acne happens—and sticks around:

1. Hormonal Shifts

Fluctuations in hormones (especially androgens like testosterone) can ramp up oil production and trigger cystic breakouts—often around your period, during perimenopause, or with conditions like PCOS.

Tip: Breakouts on your jawline or chin, especially on a monthly cycle, are usually hormonal acne.

2. Stress

Chronic stress increases cortisol, which messes with hormones and ramps up inflammation. That can show up on your face as breakouts, even if your skincare hasn’t changed.

3. Barrier Damage

A lot of us overdo it—acids, scrubs, harsh treatments. And when your skin barrier is damaged, acne often gets worse. Adult skin tends to be more sensitive and slower to heal than teenage skin, so recovery takes longer.

4. Comedogenic Products

Many “anti-aging” or ultra-hydrating products contain pore-clogging ingredients that can trigger or worsen acne if your skin is prone.

 

How to Treat Adult Acne (Without Over-Treating)

Adult acne needs a different approach—one that balances active treatment with hydration, barrier repair, and patience. Here’s how to build a smarter routine:

✅ Choose Acne-Safe, Barrier-Supportive Products

Start with a foundation of products that are:

• Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores
• Clinically tested on acne-prone skin
• Free from pore-clogging oils, waxes, or fatty alcohols

This applies to everything from your cleanser to your SPF to your foundation.

✅ Focus on Active Ingredients That Work and Support

• Salicylic acid (2%) – unclogs pores and reduces oil
• Azelaic acid – brightens, calms, and fights bacteria
• Mandelic acid – gentle exfoliation for sensitive or melanin-rich skin
• Sulfur – calms inflammation without drying

Good to know: At banu, every product is formulated to be both effective and acne-safe—because you shouldn't have to choose between clearing your skin and protecting it.

✅ Treat Hormonal Acne from the Inside, Too

For recurring jawline breakouts or cystic acne, a dermatologist may recommend:

• Spironolactone (blocks oil-stimulating hormones)
• Birth control pills (regulate estrogen/progesterone levels)
• Diet and lifestyle adjustments (reduce inflammation and support hormone balance)

Always talk to a provider before starting any internal treatments.

 

Don’t Forget: Acne Isn’t All You’re Treating

Adult acne isn’t just about breakouts. It often comes with dark marks, redness, and a compromised skin barrier. Your routine should support all of your skin goals.

Look for ingredients that also help with:

• Post-acne marks – like niacinamide, azelaic acid, or PHA
• Barrier repair – like squalane, ceramides, or panthenol
• Hydration – like glycerin and hyaluronic acid (in acne-safe formulas)

 

Final Thoughts: Adult Acne Is Normal

Adult acne isn’t a flaw or a failure. It’s common, complex, and manageable with the right routine.