Most people know that acne is most common among teenagers, so we almost expect them to have it. This isn’t simply because they are a certain age, but because of the way their bodies behave during puberty. The exact cause of acne has not been pinpointed, but we do know that increased hormone production tends to increase the severity of an acne outbreak.

This is because certain hormones increase the production of oils that lubricate the skin. With more oil, the pores are more likely to clog, and the bacteria on the skin have more ‘food’ to increase an outbreak.

However, it’s not only teenagers who have hormonal increases, AND it’s not only hormones that contribute to acne. Therefore, people of all ages can get acne—it’s perfectly normal, just less predictable in other populations than in teenagers and adolescents.

Acne and Adults

According to Acne.org, as many as 25% of adult men and 50% of adult women experience acne at some point in their adult lives. Whether that is a full outbreak or an occasional blemish here and there is unclear. What is clear is that having acne as an adult is not as uncommon as you might think.

Because acne is worsened by hormones, women are more likely to find blemishes at certain stages of their menstrual cycle. Both men and women can increase hormone production when they are stressed, and stress knows no gender. If you have a high-pressure job or are going through a stressful period, this could account for changes you see on your skin.

However, acne is also known to behave hereditarily, and some adults are prone to more severe acne, regardless of hormones and other factors. If your acne does not diminish as you age, you can consider visiting a dermatologist for more aggressive treatment than over the counter products provide.

Acne and Children

Rarely do young children have acne, but as puberty starts earlier and earlier, so will the symptoms that come with it. Acne is one of those symptoms, so it is no longer uncommon for children as young as 8 or 9 to start showing signs of acne. This is not typical, but it is generally nothing to be worried about. Start your child on an over the counter acne medication (a basic face wash should do), or consult a dermatologist if you have any questions or concerns.

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