What Causes Acne in the Twenties?

Acne, an inflammation of oil glands is generally correlated as a rite of passage for teenagers. But this skin condition also affects many people that are long past adolescence into their twenties. Known as adult acne, its causes are mainly hormonal and stress related, that if left untreated can become aggravated and develop into the thirties and forties.

Unbalanced Bacteria

The bacteria "propionibacterium" is present but in the twenties its production is often unbalanced, which stops oil from producing normally. This causes pores to be trapped with dead cells and oil and blocks oxygen from reaching the pores. This bacteria thrives off these conditions and causes the skin to develop pimples and become irritated and red.

Hormonal Changes and Stress

Individuals in their twenties are constantly experiencing hormonal changes and stress. This can cause the sebaceous glands in the skin to overproduce more sebum or oil than is needed. This excessive oil blocks the sebaceous duct with bacteria and dead skin cells, swelling the skin and causing acne.

Dead Skin Cells

The top layer of the skin is constantly shedding dead skin that becomes replaced with new skin. In the twenties, acne prone individuals may experience more dead skin shedding than normal causing bacteria to acclimate and pimples to form. This is not only correlated with skin type but also particularly in women who wear cosmetics that can cause dead skin cells and oil to get trapped in the pores.

Environment

Elements in the environment such as pollution and smog can cause pores and hair follicles to get clogged. According to acne-resource.org, people in their twenties have skin that is undergoing numerous changes, which combined with the environment can cause the skin to become irritated and infected leading to acne.

Smoking and Alcohol

In addition being correlated with diseases and health risks, smoking and drinking can also cause acne. According to acne.org, individuals in their twenties often partake in drinking and smoking, which over time can make the skin weak from performing its normal functions such as fighting against bacterial infections such as acne.

Monthly Menstration

Women overproduce sebum during their menstrual cycles, which can leads to acne. Particularly in the twenties, the body is signaled to over produce sebum, when combined with monthly hormonal changes can a collection of pimples, generally around the hair line, chin and mouth.

Resources

• Epigee
• Acne.Org