Acne - a teenage problem in middle age

Acne is a problem for the majority of young people between the ages of 12 and 17 but it can also break out in middle age.

Some people miss having to deal with acne during their teen years, but start having difficulties with their skin for the first time as adults.

 Some people in their 30's and 40's are still dealing with outbreaks that started when young. If this is you it doesn’t seem fair does it?

What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that has two forms. Non-inflammatory acne includes whiteheads, blackheads and pimples.

Inflammatory acne is a more serious condition that is characterised by bumps under the surface of the skin, known as papules. These are red in colour and the area is tender when touched.

Another characteristic of inflammatory acne are pustules. They look similar to whiteheads, but have a much angrier appearance. Pustules are commonly known as pimples and are characterised by a white or yellow centre surrounded by a red ring.

When acne symptoms are accompanied by deep abscesses, scarring or inflammation, then the patient may be dealing with a version of this skin condition known as acne conglobata. This form of acne is usually found in adults and usually starts somewhere between the ages of 18 and 30. The person who has been diagnosed with this form of acne will be given a medication called Isotretinoin, which is very similar to Vitamin A, to treat it.