How to Deal with Adult Acne

Well, unfortunately, acne isn’t just a teenage problem. While it would be ideal to leave it behind along with our prom dresses and dreadful algebra homeworks, sadly for some people, acne is the one thing from our youth that decides to stick around for the long haul. 

In fact, adult acne is more common than you might think. And for women, it can feel especially frustrating when it shows up during a time you’re juggling deadlines, responsibilities, and everyday stress. The good news? You don’t have to just live with it. Understanding what’s behind adult acne is the first step to getting your skin back on track. 

So, What’s Causing These Breakouts?

Adult acne can be tricky because  it doesn’t always follow the same rules as teenage acne, and often, it's tied to a mix of internal and external triggers. 

Let’s break down the most common ones:

Hormonal Imbalances

Fluctuating hormones are a biggie. Whether it's around your period, during pregnancy, or approaching menopause, hormonal shifts can increase oil production and lead to clogged pores. Conditions like PCOS can also contribute to this.

Stress

Life stress doesn’t just mess with your mood, it also impacts your skin. Stress makes your body produce more cortisol, thus triggering inflammation and excess oil, setting the stage for breakouts.

Skincare and Makeup Choices

Heavy or pore-clogging products (often labeled "comedogenic") can make matters worse. If your skincare is too harsh or too rich, it can throw off your skin’s natural balance and cause congestion.

Diet

While the science here isn’t one-size-fits-all, some people find that high-glycemic foods or dairy can lead to flare-ups. It really depends on your skin’s unique chemistry, keeping a food journal may help you spot patterns.

Poor Sleep and Environmental Factors

Late nights, pollution, and not properly cleansing your skin can all lead to acne. These external factors can increase inflammation, clog pores, and interfere with your skin’s ability to heal.

How to Treat Adult Acne (Without Stressing About It)

Adult acne doesn’t clear up overnight, but with a little patience and the right products, you can calm your skin and keep breakouts in check.

Start with a Gentle Cleanser

Using harsh cleansers for your face can strip your skin and cause it to overproduce oil, leading to more breakouts. Try a gentle, purifying cleanser like the Peptide Sensi Cleanse or Biotic Mangosteen Cleanse. These cleansers support a healthy skin barrier while clearing away debris and excess oil.

Exfoliate, but Keep It Kind

Your skin still needs exfoliation, just not the gritty kind. Acids like lactic or mandelic help clear pores and brighten skin without irritation. The GlyLac Exfoliating Toner, with glycolic and lactic acids, is a great option for smooth, glowing skin.

Go for a Targeted Approach

Serums have been proven to be effective in the fight against adult acne by offering a concentrated and effective means of delivering potent ingredients directly to the skin. If you crave a complexion that is not only clear but also calm, even-toned, and truly healthy, Spalina Skincare’s Epidermal Repair Serum is your best bet. So what makes this serum so effective? The answer is Trioxolane, a groundbreaking ingredient that literally improves your skin’s own immunity. Instead of just fighting bacteria on the surface, this serum strengthens your skin’s natural defenses, making it more resilient and less prone to the triggers of acne. It empowers your skin to heal itself—faster and more effectively.

Hydrate, Don’t Hide From Moisture

One of the biggest myths about acne-prone skin is that it doesn’t need hydration. A lightweight moisturizer like Weightless Probiotic Defense Crème  helps balance oil, calm inflammation, and support your skin’s natural barrier.

Commit to Sun Protection

Sun exposure can worsen acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A mineral-based, non-comedogenic SPF will shield your skin without clogging pores is an essential step in every skincare routine.

Beating Adult Acne with Spalina Skincare

Solving the problem of adult acne can be overwhelming, we get it, but it’s not unbeatable. With the right skincare strategy, you can take control of your breakouts, soothe irritation, and give your skin the love it deserves.

Not sure where to start? Book a consultation with a licensed esthetician who can help you build a routine tailored to your skin’s unique needs. Whether it’s identifying triggers or picking the right products, a personalized plan makes all the difference.