Recently, more and more adult women report the presence of acne associated with exposure to chronic stress, hormonal imbalances, environment, and lifestyle.

In order to control the development of acne, you need to focus on eliminating the effects of stress, eating healthy, incorporating into your skincare regimen the right acne cosmetic products that are most suitable for you, which will be recommended by a skincare expert.

chronic stress

The main factor leading to the appearance of acne in adults is chronic stress. Acne in adult women occurs 2 times more often than in men since women are most susceptible to stress and anxiety. Chronic long-term stress causes an increase in the level of stress hormones, which increase the activity of the sebaceous glands, slow down cell renewal and thus create ideal conditions for the development of inflammatory elements. Stress also leads to signs of premature aging, with skin looking tired and uneven. To reduce the effects of stress on the skin, do deep and slow breathing exercises that help eliminate tension and anxiety. As you eliminate stress, also include the use of exfoliants and masks in your home care regimen,

Hormonal imbalance

Scientific studies prove the connection of the endocrine system with the activity of the sebaceous glands. The endocrine system is also called the “brain of the skin”. Stress stimulates the activity of the adrenal glands, which produce the hormones cortisol and adrenaline. As a result, the levels of the hormones cortisol and adrenaline increase, while the levels of progesterone, which is a natural anxiolytic (calming agent), decrease. This hormonal shift can lead to internal imbalances and the appearance of inflammatory elements on the skin. In addition to reducing chronic stress, it is necessary to observe in what situations the appearance of inflammatory elements occurs. If you notice a certain periodicity in the appearance of inflammatory elements, for example, after menstruation or after exposure to stress, contact a professional to correct your skin care regimen. In case of pregnancy, menopause or any health problems, consult your doctor.

Environment

Exposure to ultraviolet rays, the change of seasons contribute to the stimulation of skin cell production, increased production of sebum, increased microcirculation, which, in turn, leads to an aggravation of acne. Factors such as working in high temperature, high humidity environments, such as kitchens and other work environments, can also aggravate acne.

Lifestyle

Smoking, insufficient cleansing of the skin, wearing tight and irritating clothing, taking certain medications can affect the course of acne. Some makeup, hair, and skin care products may contain comedogenic ingredients that can cause clogs and breakouts. 

Squeezing out inflammatory elements can do much more harm than good, as there is a risk of infection of the skin with bacteria, leading to damage, scarring, more inflammation and premature aging of the skin.

Sugar consumption

Inclusion in the diet of a large number of sweet and refined foods contributes to increased sebum production and the progression of acne. Eat more vegetables, whole grains, foods high in antioxidants to prevent acne and clear skin. To reduce sebum production, use products based on salicylic acid and clay.

In the event that you have taken all of the above measures and breakouts continue to appear, seek further assistance from a skin care professional to determine the cause and receive personalized prescriptions.