Acne: More Than Just a Teenage Problem
- Brenton Smith, MD
- Oct 21
- 5 min read
When most people hear the word acne, they think of awkward high school years and proms ruined by a last-minute breakout. But acne is far more than a teenage nuisance—it’s one of the most common skin conditions worldwide, affecting people of all ages. In fact, adult acne is increasingly recognized as a major issue, especially among women in their 20s, 30s, and even 40s. Understanding the underlying causes, clearing up misconceptions, and exploring effective treatment options can empower those managing acne, encouraging them to seek the help they need.
In this post, we will explore the various aspects of acne, including its causes, common myths, treatment options available in primary care, and guidance on when to seek professional assistance.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Use of this website does not establish a physician-patient relationship. For medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or visit the closest emergency room (ER). Do not use this website for medical emergencies. This site may contain links to external websites for convenience; we do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of external content.
What Exactly Is Acne?
Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit (hair follicle and oil gland), affecting individuals of all ages, with a notable prevalence among adult women in their 20s to 40s. Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles get clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. This clogging creates an environment where bacteria (particularly Cutibacterium acnes) can thrive, leading to inflammation.
Acne can show up in many forms:
Blackheads and whiteheads (open/closed comedones - non-inflamed clogged pores)
Papules and pustules (inflammatory red bumps, sometimes with pus)
Nodules and cysts (deep, painful lumps under the skin)
The severity can range from a few scattered pimples to widespread, cystic breakouts that leave scars.
What Causes Acne?
Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged due to a combination of factors.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty, menstrual cycles, or pregnancy, can lead to increased oil production in the skin.
Excess Oil Production: Overactive sebaceous glands can produce too much oil, which mixes with dead skin cells and clogs pores.
Bacteria: The buildup of C. acnes, a bacteria found in clogged pores, contributes to inflammation and can result in acne lesions.
Lifestyle factors – Stress, diet, heavy cosmetics, or harsh skincare can all play a role as well.
Understanding these causes is essential for effective management and treatment.
Common Myths We Hear in the Clinic
Many misconceptions about acne can hinder effective treatment. Here are some of the most common myths:
Myth 1 - “Eating chocolate causes acne.” There is no direct link between chocolate and acne, but high-glycemic foods may exacerbate acne in susceptible individuals.
Myth 2 - “You just need to wash your face more.” Over-washing can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to irritation and potentially worsening acne.
Myth 3 - “Acne is only a teenage problem.” Adult acne is common.
Myth 4 - “You should pop pimples to get rid of them faster.” Manipulating lesions increases the risk of scarring and further inflammation.
How We Treat Acne in Primary Care
In primary care, various treatment options exist for managing acne, tailored to the severity and type of condition. Here are some common approaches:
Over-the-Counter (OTC)
Benzoyl peroxide
Salicylic acid
Adapalene
Prescription Options
Topical Benzoyl Peroxides
Topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene)
Topical/oral antibiotics (clindamycin, doxycycline)
Hormonal therapies (birth control pills, spironolactone)
Isotretinoin (i.e. Accutane): For severe, resistant cases. Requires strict monitoring
In-Office Procedure such as Intralesional Kenalog
Lifestyle Modifications
A gentle skincare routine, stress management, and a balanced diet are recommended.
Evidence for low-glycemic diets is mixed, and there is insufficient data to support restriction of dairy, chocolate, or omega-3 supplementation for acne management.
Skin Care products
Consultation with a healthcare provider is key to identifying the most effective treatment plan tailored to individual needs.
Why It Matters
One of the hardest parts of acne is its impact on self-esteem. For many people, it’s not “just pimples”—it can cause embarrassment, anxiety, or even depression.
Addressing acne effectively can lead to a better quality of life, increased self-confidence, and improved overall mental health. It is vital to recognize that seeking help is a sign of strength. Effective treatments can help restore self-assurance.
When to Schedule an Appointment
If you or someone you know is struggling with acne, consider making an appointment with a healthcare provider. You should seek professional guidance if:
Acne persists and does not respond to over-the-counter treatments.
You experience severe acne that causes pain, scarring, or emotional distress.
You are uncertain about the best treatment options for your specific situation.
You observe changes in your skin that are concerning, such as new lesions or changes to existing ones.
Timely intervention can lead to better outcomes and help prevent long-term skin damage.
Taking Charge of Your Skin Health
Acne is a complex condition that affects many people beyond their teenage years. By understanding its causes, dispelling myths, and exploring treatment options, those affected can take meaningful steps toward managing their skin health.
If you are struggling with acne, remember that you are not alone. Effective treatments are available. Reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your concerns and find a personalized treatment plan that works best for you. Your skin health is important, and taking action can lead to a clearer and brighter future.
If you struggling with acne and live in the Lake Charles, LA area, call our office today at 337-433-1212 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Smith provides comprehensive acne care—from topical therapies and oral medications to advanced treatments like oral isotretinoin and in office procedures such as intralesional Kenalog (ILK) injections. Let’s take the next step together toward clearer skin—and a healthier you.
Appointment
If you live in the Lake Charles, LA area and would like to become a patient, schedule an appointment now. Please call Dr. Smith's office at 337-433-1212 for assistance or visit his website from the link below.
References
Acne Vulgaris. Zaenglein AL. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2018;379(14):1343-1352. doi:10.1056/NEJMcp1702493.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Acne. Titus S, Hodge J. American Family Physician. 2012;86(8):734-40.
Guidelines of Care for the Management of Acne Vulgaris. Reynolds RV, Yeung H, Cheng CE, et al. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2024;90(5):1006.e1-1006.e30. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2023.12.017.
Management of Acne Vulgaris: A Review. Eichenfield DZ, Sprague J, Eichenfield LF. JAMA. 2021;326(20):2055-2067. doi:10.1001/jama.2021.17633.
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Use of this website does not establish a physician-patient relationship. For medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or visit your closest emergency room (ER). Do not use this website for medical emergencies. This site may contain links to external websites for convenience; we do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of external content.
