If you’re breaking out in your 30s, 40s, or beyond, you’re not alone. Many adults are surprised when acne shows up years after their teenage years, or never seems to fully go away in the first place.
Maybe you’ve tried changing your skincare routine, cutting out certain products, or buying the latest acne treatment you saw online. Sometimes those changes help, but often the breakouts keep coming back.
The truth is that adult acne can have several different causes, and figuring out what’s behind your breakouts is often the key to finding a solution. That’s where an experienced acne doctor in Fairfax, VA can help.
Why Am I Still Getting Acne?
Acne develops when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. But what causes that process can vary from person to person.
For many adults, hormones are a major factor. Women often notice breakouts around their chin and jawline before their period, during pregnancy, or during perimenopause. Stress can also play a role. When stress levels rise, the body produces hormones that can increase oil production and trigger flare-ups.
Other factors that may contribute to acne include:
- Family history
- Certain medications
- Heavy or pore-clogging skincare products
- Excess oil production
- Inflammation
- Lifestyle habits
That’s why acne treatment isn’t always as simple as using a stronger face wash. What works for one person may do very little for someone else.
Is It Hormonal Acne?
One of the most common questions dermatologists hear is, “How do I know if my acne is hormonal?”
While every patient is different, hormonal acne often appears around the chin, jawline, and lower cheeks. These breakouts can be deep, tender, and seem to appear like clockwork every month.
Hormonal acne can also be stubborn. Many patients find that over-the-counter products improve the surface of the skin but don’t stop the recurring breakouts underneath.
If this sounds familiar, a visit with an acne doctor in Fairfax, VA can help determine whether hormones are contributing to your symptoms and what treatment options may be most effective.
When Drugstore Products Aren’t Enough
There’s nothing wrong with starting with over-the-counter acne products. In fact, many contain ingredients that can be helpful for mild breakouts.
But if you’ve been using products consistently for several months without improvement, it may be time to seek professional guidance.
Persistent acne often requires a more targeted approach. Depending on your skin and the type of acne you’re experiencing, treatment may include prescription medications, topical therapies, chemical peels, laser treatments, or other in-office procedures.
The goal isn’t just to clear existing breakouts. It’s also to prevent new ones and reduce the risk of long-term scarring.
Don’t Ignore Acne Scars
Even when a breakout eventually disappears, it can leave behind dark marks, discoloration, or permanent scars.
The earlier acne is treated, the easier it is to minimize the chances of lasting skin damage. If you’re noticing that blemishes are leaving marks behind or affecting your confidence, it’s worth having your skin evaluated.
Many patients are surprised by how many treatment options are available today for both active acne and acne scars.
Finding the Right Acne Doctor in Fairfax, VA
Living with acne can be frustrating, especially when you’ve tried product after product without seeing the results you hoped for. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
At ACS Dermatology, our team works with patients of all ages to identify the causes of their acne and create treatment plans that fit their skin, lifestyle, and goals. Whether you’re dealing with occasional hormonal breakouts or persistent acne that has been bothering you for years, we’re here to help.
In addition to acne treatment, ACS Dermatology provides comprehensive medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including skin cancer screenings, eczema treatment, psoriasis care, Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments, and more. If you’re looking for an experienced acne doctor in Fairfax, VA, schedule a consultation with us today. Clearer skin may be closer than you think.