Why Adult Acne Happens (And How to Actually Treat It)

Acne is supposed to be a teenage thing… right? That’s what we’re told. So when breakouts continue — or even start — well into your 20s, 30s, or beyond, it can feel frustrating, confusing, and a little defeating.

But here’s the truth: adult acne is incredibly common, and it often looks and behaves differently than teenage breakouts.

Adult Acne - Real Client

If you’ve been trying to “fix” your skin with harsh treatments, over-the-counter spot gels, or leftover advice from your teenage years, you’re not alone, you just need a new approach.

Why Adult Acne Happens

There’s no single cause of adult acne. Instead, it’s usually a combination of internal and external factors.

1. Hormonal Fluctuations

Stress, birth control, your cycle, PCOS, and perimenopause can all throw off your oil production and inflammation levels. That’s why hormonal breakouts often show up along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks.

2. Barrier Disruption

Many adults unknowingly damage their skin barrier with over-exfoliation, stripping cleansers, or too many active ingredients. A compromised barrier makes your skin more reactive — and more prone to clogged pores and breakouts.

3. Stress & Lifestyle Shifts

High cortisol (your stress hormone) can worsen inflammation, increase oil production, and slow healing. Lack of sleep, processed food, travel, and general life chaos all play a role, too.

4. Product Buildup or Irritation

Heavy makeup, comedogenic ingredients, and even some “clean” or “natural” products can lead to congestion — especially if your skin is already sensitive or acne-prone.

What Makes Adult Acne Different

Adult acne tends to:

• Be more inflamed and persistent

• Show up deeper under the skin

• Leave hyperpigmentation and scarring behind

• Coexist with sensitivity, dryness, or barrier issues

So while teenage acne often responds to drying, antibacterial products, adult acne needs a more nuanced, restorative approach.

So What Actually Helps?

At North Star Esthetics, we specialize in custom facials for acne that are designed for real, adult skin — the kind that’s navigating stress, hormones, and sensitivity all at once.

Everyone’s skin is different — and that’s exactly why trying to DIY your way through adult acne can leave you stuck, overwhelmed, or even making things worse. Seeing a professional helps you stop guessing and start healing with clarity, care, and a plan.

✔️ Personalized Treatment Plans

No one-size-fits-all protocols. We tailor every facial and homecare plan to your unique skin — and adjust as it changes.

✔️ Barrier-First Support

We work to repair and protect your skin barrier so you can reduce inflammation, prevent future breakouts, and help your skin heal properly.

✔️ Real Education

We walk you through your routine, explain ingredients, and help you understand why your breakouts happen — so you’re never stuck guessing.

✔️ Ongoing Partnership

Skin isn’t linear. That’s why we’re in this with you — supporting your progress, making adjustments, and celebrating the wins (big and small).

If you’re dealing with adult acne, it doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong — and it’s absolutely not too late to get clarity, relief, and calm skin again.

Your skin is not misbehaving.It’s communicating.We’re here to help you understand what it’s saying — and how to treat it with care.

Conque your acne by booking today!

Book Acne Consult + Treatment Today