Most people associate acne with adolescence, but adult acne is far more common than many realize. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne affects up to 15% of adult women and a significant percentage of adult men.
Why Does Acne Persist Into Adulthood?
Several factors contribute to adult acne:
Hormonal fluctuations, Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can trigger breakouts in women. Testosterone fluctuations affect both men and women.
Stress, Stress causes the adrenal glands to produce more androgens, which stimulate oil glands and can cause breakouts.
Skincare and hair care products, Certain ingredients (comedogenics) can clog pores and trigger breakouts.
Diet, High-glycemic foods and dairy have been associated with increased acne in some studies.
Medications, Corticosteroids, lithium, and some birth control methods can trigger or worsen acne.
The Role of Bacteria
Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) is a bacteria that lives in the hair follicle. When the follicle becomes blocked with sebum, C. acnes proliferates rapidly, triggering inflammation. Targeting C. acnes is a key strategy in acne treatment.
What Treatment Options Exist?
Options range from topical retinoids and antibiotics to hormonal therapies (spironolactone for women) and isotretinoin for severe cases. Emerging research is exploring mRNA vaccine technology targeting C. acnes directly.
Acne Clinical Trial at NuLine
NuLine is enrolling adults ages 18 to 44 with moderate-to-severe acne for a trial of an experimental mRNA vaccine. Earn $120 per visit. No insurance required. Learn more.