Why Do I Get Pimples as an Adult?

Oct 10, 2025
Why Do I Get Pimples as an Adult?
So you thought you left acne back in high school? Think again. Stubborn blemishes and breakouts are a frustrating reality for adults, and the causes are often more complex than they were in your youth. Here’s what you should know.

Every year in the United States, around 50 million people deal with acne — and not just teens. Studies show more than 25% of women and 12% of men experience pimples and breakouts well into their 40s.

Ruben Moreno, MD, and our Florida Dermatology Associates team specialize in treating adult acne. We work with you to create a personalized plan that clears up existing blemishes and prevents future issues.

Still getting pimples decades past puberty? Let’s take a closer look at what triggers adult acne.

Beyond puberty: hormones and acne

Like teen acne, hormonal changes are often the primary cause of adult acne. When combined with dead skin cells and other debris, an increase in certain hormones can cause your skin to produce excess sebum (oil), which clogs pores and leads to blemishes, such as blackheads, whiteheads, and deeper cystic acne.

For women, these fluctuations may be due to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and perimenopause. Certain medical conditions, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can create an ongoing state of hormonal imbalance.

While men typically experience fewer hormonal shifts than women, even little fluctuations in androgen levels can increase oil production and cause acne.

The stress response

Your reproductive hormones aren’t the only ones that play a role in acne. The demands of adult life can trigger the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol, that can throw your whole body off balance — including your skin. 

A spike in cortisol can lead to inflammation and an overproduction of sebum, which creates an ideal environment for breakouts. Elevated stress levels also interfere with your sleep cycle. A lack of quality sleep can weaken your skin’s protective barrier, making it more susceptible to bacteria and irritation.

What you eat

For many people, certain foods can be a surprising factor in adult acne. Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, pasta, and sugary foods and beverages, cause a rapid rise in blood sugar that triggers breakouts or worsens existing acne.

But what you eat can also work to your advantage. A diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods, antioxidants, and healthy fats provides the vitamins and nutrients you need to maintain healthy skin. 

Your skincare routine

Your skincare routine could be the culprit behind persistent pimples. Many products contain comedogenic ingredients, such as mineral oil, lanolin, and cocoa butter, which can trap oil, skin cells, and bacteria in the pores. 

On the other hand, over-cleansing or using products that are too harsh can strip your skin’s moisture barrier, causing it to overproduce oil and overcompensate. 

To support your skin, focus on a gentle routine, review product labels for pore-clogging ingredients, and choose non-comedogenic formulations. Ask our team if you’re unsure about your current regimen.

Clear skin is waiting

Adult acne can be frustrating, but you don’t have to manage it on your own. Our team offers a range of solutions, including prescription oral and topical medications, chemical peels, and advanced options like laser and light therapy.

Take the first step toward clear, healthy skin and schedule an appointment with our expert team. Contact Florida Dermatology Associates online or by phone today.