Adult acne is more than a skin concern – it’s a confidence issue, a hormonal signal, a clinical condition. It’s also one of the most common reasons people come to see us as a team of adult acne dermatologist s London. Here’s what we want you to know, based on the latest research, clinical evidence, and our work with thousands of women navigating acne well beyond their teenage years.
Up to 54% of adult women experience acne. That “second puberty” in your 20s and 30s? It’s a real phenomenon. Stress, career changes, pregnancy, and perimenopause all play a role. Adult acne is common — and it deserves serious, personalised care from a dermatologist and at home.
In many cases, adult acne is what we call “persistent acne.” One study found 82% of adult cases began during adolescence. So if you feel like you never quite grew out of breakouts, you’re not imagining it.
3. Hormones are a major driver — but not the only one.
Androgens and IGF-1 (a hormone linked to sugar intake) increase oil production and inflammation. That’s why hormonal shifts (before periods, post-pregnancy, during perimenopause) can trigger breakouts. But diet, genetics, and stress play powerful roles too. We are also aware that if you have acne it is likely that you have tried at-home fixes first, hence why you’re here, but also why we know that help is available and effective.
Unlike teenage blackheads, adult acne often shows up as inflammatory spots around the jawline or cheeks. It’s usually deeper, more painful, and more prone to scarring and pigmentation.
High-glycaemic foods (think: sugar, white carbs, processed snacks) raise IGF-1 and oil production. Clinical reviews show low-GI, whole food diets rich in fibre and omega-3s can help regulate inflammation and support skin from the inside out.
Skip the 10-step routines. Our dermatologists most often recommend:
They regulate oil, increase cell turnover, reduce pigmentation, and treat existing spots. If you’ve tried everything OTC and still struggle, prescription retinoids can be a smart next step.
Certain hormonal medication or the combined oral contraceptive pill can dramatically reduce hormonal acne — especially when premenstrual breakouts or jawline acne are involved. These should always be prescribed and monitored by a dermatologist as they know the safe ways to take them and how to help you get the best results from it.
New FDA-cleared lasers like AviClear work by calming the sebaceous (oil) glands at the source. It’s suitable for all skin tones and ideal for people looking for long-term control without systemic meds.
If breakouts are scarring, don’t wait. The sooner we treat the active acne, the less likely it is to leave marks. Treatments like microneedling, peels, and energy-based devices can help restore texture and tone, but starting early is key.
Whether you’re managing hormonal flare-ups or dealing with long-term acne that’s never fully gone, know this: you’re not doing anything wrong. And you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Start with a consultation — online or in clinic — and we’ll help build a plan that works for your skin and your life.
Explore acne services at No. 23 Skin
Helen
CoFounder
PS – I have been there – from acne in my teens, to twenties and thirties when I was pregnant it never fully went until I got proper prescription and treatment support. Read my story here.
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