Will My Adult Acne Go Away? Causes, Triggers, and What to Do
By Roz Samimi
March 13, 2025
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If you thought breakouts were just a teenage thing, you’re not alone. One of the more surprising realities of adulthood? Realizing that adult acne is not only real—it’s a common condition, especially for adults assigned female at birth.
And while it may look familiar on the surface, adult acne is often different from teenage acne. The causes are more complex. The triggers shift with age, stress, hormones, and even the products you use. And what worked during your teen years? Probably not cutting it anymore.
Let’s break down why you’re still getting acne as an adult—and what you can actually do about it.
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What Is Adult Acne?
Adult acne, also known as post-adolescent acne, refers to any type of acne—like comedonal acne, cystic acne, or hormonal breakouts—that shows up after age 25. You might have had acne as a teen that never fully went away—or you might be experiencing it for the first time in your 30s or 40s. Either way, you’re not alone.
And no—it’s not your fault.
Adult acne is often caused by a combination of internal factors (like hormones and stress) and external triggers (like products, lifestyle habits, and the environment).
Why Am I Still Getting Acne As An Adult?
Let’s break down the most common causes of adult acne, and what might be fueling your acne breakouts—from hormonal changes to buildup on the surface of your skin.
Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormones are a major driver of adult acne. Throughout adulthood, your hormone levels shift due to:
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Menstrual cycles
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Pregnancy
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Perimenopause or menopause
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Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS
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Chronic stress (which increases cortisol and oil production)
These hormonal changes can cause your sebaceous glands—also known as oil glands—to produce too much sebum, throwing off your skin’s balance and increasing the risk of clogged pores and inflammation.
Tip: Breakouts along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks are often signs of hormonal acne.
Skincare And Makeup Products
Skincare and makeup products can sometimes make adult acne worse. Adult skin is often drier and more sensitive than it was in your teen years, so harsh topical treatments or products not designed for acne-prone skin may lead to more breakouts.
Common culprits include:
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Comedogenic (aka pore-clogging) ingredients
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Fragrance or dyes
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Drying formulas or heavy oils
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Harsh cleansers and exfoliants
Even hair products or sunscreen can leave a residue that triggers breakouts on your jawline, chest, or back. Use an ingredient checker and look for non-comedogenic, acne-safe skincare designed specifically for acne-prone skin.
Stress, Lifestyle, And Sleep
Chronic stress can increase cortisol—one of the hormones that stimulates oil production and triggers inflammation. When hormone levels stay elevated, it can lead to more frequent acne breakouts and even worsen the severity of acne over time.
Other common lifestyle triggers include:
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Lack of sleep
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Poor diet (especially those high in sugar or dairy products)
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Dehydration
- Smoking or alcohol
Your skin is a reflection of your internal balance, and breakouts can be one of the first signs that things are off.
Environmental Factors
Heat, high humidity, pollution, or even wearing tight clothes or face masks can trap oil and bacteria on the skin, making acne flare-ups worse.
If you’re breaking out on areas of skin, like your chest, back, or jawline—your environment (and friction) could be playing a role.
Will My Adult Acne Ever Go Away?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But here’s the good news: adult acne can be managed—and minimized—with the right treatment plan.
The key is understanding your skin’s needs now—not what worked during your teen years.
How To Treat Adult Acne (Without Starting Over)
Here are 6 tips to support your skin—without compromising your other skincare goals:
1. Identify Your Triggers
Track your breakouts and note patterns: are they tied to hormonal changes, stress, or a new product or medication?
2. Switch to Acne-Safe Products
Look for non-comedogenic products designed to support acne-prone skin and its barrier. Adult skin often needs hydration just as much as it needs clarity.
3. Keep It Simple
Use a gentle cleanser, ease into active ingredients like salicylic acid or azelaic acid, and always moisturize—even if you feel oily.
4. Don’t Pick or Pop
Adult acne tends to heal slower. Picking increases your risk of hyperpigmentation and scarring.
5. Talk to a Dermatologist
If OTC options aren’t working, a board-certified dermatologist may suggest prescription medications like retinoids, spironolactone, or birth control pills (if applicable).
6. Support Your Body
Regular movement, a nutrient-rich diet, stress management, and sleep all support hormonal balance and skin health from within.
The Takeaway: Acne Happens, and That's Okay
Adult acne is a common condition, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept breakouts as your baseline.
With the right acne-safe skincare, a better understanding of your hormonal changes and triggers, and a consistent routine, you can support your skin in a way that makes sense at this stage of life.