What’s Causing Your Adult Acne?

How a Dermatologist Can Help

Dealing with breakouts as an adult can feel frustrating, embarrassing, and even unfair. Many people assume breakouts are just a teenage issue, but the truth is, adult acne is incredibly common. If you’re in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or beyond and still dealing with persistent spots, blackheads, or painful cysts, you’re not imagining it. Adult acne is a real skin condition with real solutions.

At SkinDoc Dermatology Clinic, we regularly help people across Liverpool in Sydney and Western Sydney who are struggling with ongoing acne and acne scarring. Whether your breakouts are mild but stubborn or more severe and affecting your confidence, our acne dermatologist in Liverpool, Sydney can help you get to the root of the problem and find a treatment that works.

In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes of adult acne, why it happens later in life, and what treatment options are available—including acne scar removal in Liverpool.

Causes of Adult Acne

Acne in adulthood isn’t always due to poor hygiene or “not washing your face enough.” In fact, that’s a common myth. There are several internal and external factors that can trigger or worsen adult acne, and sometimes it’s a combination of things. Here are some of the most common causes of adult acne we see at our skin clinic in Liverpool:

Hormonal Fluctuations

Hormonal acne is especially common in women, and it can flare up during certain times of the month or due to conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Acne may also start or worsen during pregnancy, after stopping contraception, or around menopause. These changes can stimulate oil glands, leading to clogged pores and breakouts often around the jawline, chin, and cheeks.

• Stress

Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can ramp up oil production and inflammation in the skin. If your breakouts tend to appear during busy or emotionally intense times, stress might be playing a key role.

• Diet and Lifestyle

Certain foods may not “cause” acne, but they can certainly influence it. High sugar intake, dairy, and processed carbs (like white bread and sugary snacks) can spike insulin levels, which in turn affects oil production and skin inflammation. A poor sleep schedule or smoking can also contribute.

• Skincare Mistakes

Using heavy makeup, harsh scrubs, or the wrong skincare products for your skin type can worsen breakouts. Some moisturisers or sunscreens may clog pores, and over-washing your face can strip the skin and increase oil production. If you’re not sure which products are helping or hurting, an acne dermatologist in Sydney can guide you.

• Environment

Living in busy cities like Liverpool and Western Sydney, you’re exposed to more pollution and humidity—both of which can clog pores and irritate the skin. Sweat and grime from the environment can also make acne worse if not properly managed.

• Genetics

Unfortunately, sometimes acne simply runs in the family. If your parents had adult acne, you may be more prone to it too. The good news? Effective acne treatment still exists, regardless of what’s in your genes.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

If your acne is affecting your confidence, leaving scars, or not improving with over-the-counter products, it’s time to see a professional. An acne dermatologist in Sydney can help you identify the root cause of your acne and offer acne treatments that are personalised to your skin.

At SkinDoc, our dermatologist in Liverpool, Sydney specialises in all types of adult acne—from mild to severe. We’ve helped countless adults gain control over their breakouts with tailored plans that are evidence-based and results-driven.

Acne Treatments Available at SkinDoc

No two people’s skin is the same. That’s why we offer a wide range of acne treatments in Liverpool, suited to different skin types, acne types, and lifestyles.

Some of the adult acne treatments we offer include:

• Prescription Creams and Medications: These may include topical retinoids, antibiotics, or medications that reduce inflammation and target acne-causing bacteria.
• Hormonal Acne Treatments: For those with PCOS or hormonal imbalances, treatments may involve certain birth control pills or anti-androgen medications to regulate hormone levels.
• Medical-Grade Skincare Plans: We create customised acne skincare routines using evidence-backed products to reduce breakouts and improve skin-health long-term.
• Skin Smoothing: Gentle skin smoothing peels help exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and improve the appearance of acne and pigmentation.
• LED Light Therapy: Blue light therapy can reduce acne-causing bacteria and calm inflammation, without downtime.
• Collagen Stimulation & Laser Treatments: These advanced treatments stimulate collagen, improve skin texture, and are especially effective for acne scar removal in Liverpool. Laser treatments can also target active acne and reduce oil production.
• Acne Scar Treatments: If past breakouts have left you with scarring, we offer multiple options—from collagen stimulation and skin smoothing to laser resurfacing—to help smooth and even your skin tone.

Our expert acne dermatologist in Sydney will recommend the right approach after a full skin assessment. Whether you’re after acne scar removal, hormonal acne support, or a targeted acne skincare regime, we’re here to help.

If you’re tired of trying different products and getting nowhere, you’re not alone. Adult acne can be frustrating, but effective treatment is possible. Whether you’re struggling with hormonal acne in Sydney or looking for acne scar removal in Liverpool, our friendly and professional team at SkinDoc is here for you.

Book a consultation with Dr Jenifer Yip, our expert acne dermatologist at SkinDoc, and take the first step towards clearer, more confident skin.