Pimples have generally been viewed as “part of growing up” and there’s a scientific basis for this.
As our oil glands start to be active by the age of eight and become fully functional as we reach our adolescence. This, plus the raging hormones contribute to pimples in our pre-teen and teen years. Most of the time, we are told “you’ll outgrow your pimples” but this seems far from the truth as we continue to suffer from this teenage malady.
Why do we get pimples?
Pimples are caused by the following, an excess in the production of sebum or oil. It can also be caused by a bacterial infection. Pimples can also result from the overproduction of skin cells that block pores leading to pimples. These factors apply to all age groups.
So why does it persist in adulthood? Studies have shown that acne should be regarded as a chronic disease and tends to persist throughout one’s adult life. Those affected by acne often experience flare-ups and recurring pimples even in their adult years.
Causes of Pimples in Adults
Hormones are responsible for many processes that happen in our body. The levels of hormones don’t change only during our adolescent years but all throughout our lifetime. This is more pronounced in women who undergo hormonal changes during their monthly periods. A lot of women suffer from acne and pimple breakouts during this same period. Pregnancy and menopause are also associated with acne in adult women.
Women taking in birth control pills experience acne breakouts when they start taking in pills or change brands. Stopping birth control pills can also cause acne to come out. This is true if the pills have been responsible for preventing the appearance of acne.
Some medications like birth control pills for example may contain estrogen and progestins may cause pimples. When a birth control pill only contains progestins, this can make acne conditions worse. Acne is a common side effect of drugs that contain steroids.
Stress in any form, from late nights to pressure at work may trigger the outbreak of pimples. Stress increases the production of androgen which is a male sex hormone. These androgens have a direct effect on oil glands. These stimulate the production of oil leading to pimples.
Products used on hair and skin are a cause of acne and pimples. One of the most overlooked causes of pimples. These products may cause a condition known as “acne cosmetic” where contact with these causes the appearance of pimples.
Having a family history of relatives suffering from severe cases of acne increases your chances of suffering from the same condition. Some studies have shown that women are more likely to suffer from acne outbreaks in their later years. Another culprit in the appearance of pimples is that women use makeup which may irritate sensitive skin.
Pimples as a sign of a more serious disease
Adult women who have pimples along with increased facial hair, severe menstrual cramps and thinning or balding scalp hair maybe suffering from polycystic ovarian syndrome. This is a condition where one or both ovaries have numerous cysts growing causing abnormal production of hormones. This might also indicate a problem present in the adrenal glands. If you are manifesting a combination of these symptoms then consulting with doctor gives you the best chance of identifying any underlying medical condition.
So what can an adult woman with acne do?
If you are suffering from severe acne outbreaks and show other symptoms then seeing a doctor right away is highly advised. Check all your personal care products to see if these are causing allergic reactions. Make sure that these beauty products don’t block skin pores. Switch to unscented or mile products. Check you medications and ask your doctor for any known side effects. Taking a few minutes off could also work wonders in improving your overall skin condition.
Suzzane Edwards is a fulltime mom and currently works as a consultant for small businesses. When she’s not writing for Cash for Gold, she could be found blogging about simple tips on how people could live happier and healthier lives.