When we are in our 40s, 50s, and 60s we don’t expect to get acne, yet there it is! Are you googling “adult acne” or “acne in your 40s” and “acne in your 50s”? For some reason, women’s adult acne isn’t talked about, and it’s rarely mentioned in conjunction with menopause. But it should be.
Menopausal acne is considered hormonal acne. Hormonal acne is typically associated with puberty, but 26.3% of women in their 40s and 15.3% of women 50 and older will experience acne. Dermatologists call this “adult-onset acne” and it’s most common among women going through menopause.
Unlike during puberty when acne appears on the forehead, nose, chin, and in the T-zone, menopausal acne typically forms on the lower part of your face. This includes the bottom of your cheeks and around your jawline. Like other types of hormonal acne, one of the defining characteristics is deep tender bumps or cysts that don’t come to a head. That sentence is worth repeating - those bumps that have appeared that are acne-like, except that they don't come to a head - that's hormonal-related menopausal acne.
What Causes Menopausal Acne?
Fluctuating Hormones
Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause are at the root of this problem.
Estrogen levels decline during menopause, which can throw off the delicate balance of androgens (male-type hormones that all women have), and in particular testosterone. While estrogen declines affect the skin’s ability to ward off acne, the relative increase in androgens can lead to oily skin and clogged pores, resulting in breakouts.
Stress
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), while stress cannot cause acne, stress may worsen existing acne. This is because stress can affect a person’s hormonal balance and skin’s immune function. A stressed body releases a hormone called cortisol which can lead to worsening acne.
Skincare, Cosmetics and Haircare
Many cosmetic, skincare, and even haircare products can cause acne. This makes it very important to look for products that state they are “non-comedogenic”, meaning non-pore blocking, such as Finlay+Green’s skin-revitalizing moisturizer.
Don’t share your products and be sure to wash your brushes and applicators regularly, and make sure to remove your makeup before you go to bed.
Ultraviolet Light
Contrary to what you grew up believing, exposure to sunlight can trigger and worsen acne. Sun may appear to temporarily improve the way the skin looks and make acne less obvious, but ultimately UV light exposure will encourage the body to produce even more oil than before, resulting in a higher chance of acne. Additionally, the sun’s ultraviolet rays can darken acne and make it last longer.
Hormonal Menopausal Acne Treatment
The good news is that there are various treatments available depending on the severity of your acne. Visit your doctor to determine the best approach for your specific case. Often a dermatologist will prescribe two or more treatments. Topical therapies should be chosen with care as they can cause dryness and irritation in older women.
Takeaway
If you are experiencing adult acne, don't worry, you're not alone. While the effects of menopausal acne can be deeply distressing and have a negative impact on your quality of life, it’s important to know that there are treatment options available. Always seek your doctor’s advice before starting any course of treatment.
If you are over the age of 38, you're likely heading towards or already in perimenopause. It doesn't have to be scary because it's a natural part of life. If your body seems to be changing in unrelated ways it could be related to menopause. This is another reason why it's always best to seek your doctor's advice before starting new treatments.
Read about these 8 Surprising Menopause Symptoms and we assure you, you'll be alright.
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NOTE: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. It should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.