Adult acne is one of the most common concerns we treat at the clinic. Unlike teenage acne, it tends to appear along the jawline, chin and lower cheeks — and it is often driven by a mix of hormones, stress, diet and skincare habits rather than a single cause.
What actually triggers adult acne?
- Hormonal shifts — the week before your period, PCOS, or discontinuing birth control can all flare acne.
- Stress cortisol — high cortisol drives excess oil production and delayed healing.
- Comedogenic products — heavy sunscreens, hair oils and thick foundations can clog pores.
- Diet — high-glycemic foods and dairy have been linked to worsening acne in some patients.
What you can do at home
Start simple. A gentle salicylic-acid cleanser at night, a lightweight moisturiser, and a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning solves most mild cases within 8–12 weeks. Resist the urge to try five new products in the same week — it usually makes things worse.
When to see a dermatologist
If you have painful cysts, scarring, or breakouts that have not improved after three months of consistent basic care, book a consultation. Prescription topicals like adapalene, azelaic acid, and short courses of oral therapy give much faster and safer results than repeatedly experimenting at home.