What Is Adult Acne, Anyway?

Adult acne is that pesky skin condition where pores clog up with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, or full-on pimples.

While it’s often linked to puberty, plenty of guys in their 20s, 30s, and beyond deal with it too.

“Men can see breakouts anywhere sweat and oil hang out—think face, back, chest, or even the groin,” says Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery.

Beard-wearers, take note: shaving and facial hair can make things worse by trapping grime.

Why Do Men Get Adult Acne?

No single culprit causes acne—it’s a mix of factors. Here’s what the experts say drives those breakouts in men:

• Hormones on Overdrive: “Testosterone ramps up oil production, clogging pores faster than you can say ‘shaving cream,’” explains Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Hormonal shifts—whether from meds, stress, or just being a guy—can trigger this.

• Lifestyle Choices: Poor sleep, a greasy diet, or skipping laundry day for your towels and sheets can all spark flare-ups. “Pollution and bad habits pile on too,” Dr. Engelman adds.

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• Stress Factor: Cortisol, the stress hormone, boosts oil output. Deadlines piling up? Your skin might show it.

• Grooming Gone Wrong: Beards trap bacteria, and harsh cleansers strip your skin, leaving it vulnerable. “Men often overdo it with aggressive products,” says Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

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How to Treat and Prevent Adult Acne: 7 Expert-Backed Steps

Ready to fight back? These dermatologist-approved strategies will help you clear up and stay breakout-free.

1. Book a Dermatologist Visit

Not sure where to start? “A derm can pinpoint your triggers and craft a custom plan,” Dr. Graf says. From prescription meds to in-office treatments, they’ve got the tools to tackle stubborn cases.

2. Tweak Your Lifestyle

Small changes, big impact. Cut back on junk food, prioritize sleep, and ditch smoking. “Even adjusting your workout routine—like showering right after—can keep sweat from clogging pores,” Dr. Engelman notes.

3. Keep It Clean

Dirty towels and pillowcases are breakout breeding grounds. “Switch to fresh ones regularly to stop bacteria in its tracks,” Dr. Graf advises. Wipe down your phone and gym gear while you’re at it.

4. Wash Your Face Like It’s Your Job

“Cleanse twice daily—morning and night—no excuses,” says Dr. Engelman. Look for a gentle cleanser with salicylic acid to unclog pores or glycolic acid to slough off dead skin. Try CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser—it’s got both and won’t dry you out. Double cleanse after workouts or if you wear sunscreen.

5. Master Your Product Game

The right ingredients can turn the tide. Here’s what to stock up on:

• Retinoids: “They’re the MVP for acne, scars, and texture,” Dr. Bhanusali says. Start with an over-the-counter option like The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane.

• Salicylic Acid: Penetrates oil glands to cut production. Try Cetaphil Gentle Clear Mattifying Acne Moisturizer.

• Spot Treatments: Zap pimples with benzoyl peroxide (PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash) or adapalene (La Roche-Posay Adapalene Gel).

• Exfoliation: Weekly chemical exfoliants like The Inkey List PHA Toner keep pores clear.

Pro Tip: Add a toner with salicylic acid (like Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Toner) if your skin can handle it—just don’t overdo it to avoid dryness.

6. Moisturize, Always

Skipping this step is a rookie mistake. “Moisturizing balances your skin barrier and prevents overproduction of oil,” Dr. Engelman explains. Go lightweight with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, and layer a vitamin C serum (try Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum) to fade dark spots.

7. Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable

“Sun doesn’t heal acne—it makes it worse,” Dr. Engelman warns. Use an oil-free SPF like EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 to protect without clogging pores.

When to See a Pro

If breakouts won’t quit—or you’re seeing scars—it’s time to call in a dermatologist. Persistent acne could signal a deeper issue, like a hormonal imbalance, that needs expert attention.

FAQs About Adult Acne in Men

What’s behind acne in a 20-year-old vs. a 30-year-old guy?
“In your 20s, it’s usually oily skin driving the chaos,” Dr. Bhanusali says. By your 30s, stress, grooming habits, and lifestyle creep in as bigger players. Hormones stay a factor either way.

Here are some of the best Skincare Product For Sensitive Skin

1) Revision Skincare Gentle Foaming Cleanser The Dermatologist-Loved Face Wash for Sensitive Skin

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2) Revision Skincare YouthFull Lip Replenisher The Dermatologist-Approved Lip Plumper & Anti-Aging Treatment

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Here are some of the best eyeliners for men, based on type and style:

1. Best Pencil Eyeliner: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil.

• Price: Available at Amazon.com

2. Best Liquid Eyeliner: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner.

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4. Price: Available at Amazon.com

6. Best Gel Eyeliner: Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner.

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8. Price: Available at Amazon.com

Is men’s acne different from women’s?
Sometimes. “Men often get it on the back and chest due to more oil glands and sweat,” Dr. Graf says. Higher testosterone levels don’t help. Women might see more hormonal acne tied to cycles, while guys deal with shaving-related flare-ups.

Meet the Experts

• Dr. Jeannette Graf, MD: Board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

• Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, MD: Board-certified dermatologist and founder of Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery.

• Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD: Board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology.