Understanding and Treating Adult Acne at 40

It's understandable to be concerned about developing acne at age 40, especially when you haven't experienced significant breakouts before. This is known as adult-onset acne, and it's more common than many people realize.

Why is this happening now?

Several factors can contribute to adult acne, even if you had clear skin as a teenager:

• Hormonal Fluctuations: This is a primary cause. Changes in hormone levels due to age, the menstrual cycle, or the onset of perimenopause can increase oil production and trigger breakouts.
• Stress: High stress levels can impact hormones and worsen acne.
• Lifestyle Factors: Diet, lack of sleep, and certain medications or supplements can also play a role.
• Skincare Products: Using products that clog pores (comedogenic) or irritate your skin can cause or exacerbate acne. You mentioned trying new homemade formulations; it's possible some ingredients might not be suitable for your skin at this time.

Given your age, hormonal shifts are a likely contributor, but it's also worth considering if any recent changes in your skincare routine could be a factor.

Is the treatment correct, and why isn't it clearing up yet?

The treatment regimen prescribed by your doctor includes several standard and effective acne treatments:

• Benzoyl Peroxide (BP): Helps kill acne-causing bacteria and unclog pores.
• Clindamycin (CM): A topical antibiotic to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
• Acne Compound (containing Sulfur, Salicylic Acid): Sulfur helps reduce oil and inflammation, while Salicylic Acid exfoliates within the pores.
• Topical Isotretinoin: A retinoid that helps regulate skin cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.

This combination targets multiple aspects of acne formation and is a medically sound approach.

However, acne treatment takes time. It's very common for it to take 2-3 months or even longer to see significant improvement and for breakouts to stop appearing. You might still experience new pimples while the treatment works to clear existing ones and prevent future ones. Patience and consistent application are key.

The fact that you needed procedures like pressing, injecting, and laser indicates the severity of the current breakouts, which can take longer to resolve. These procedures help clear existing lesions faster, but the topical treatments are essential for long-term control and preventing new acne.

Recommendation:

Continue following your doctor's prescribed treatment plan diligently. Two months is often not enough time for complete clearance. If you don't see noticeable improvement after another month or two (e.g., 3-4 months total on treatment) or if you have concerns about side effects, schedule a follow-up appointment with your dermatologist to discuss your progress and potentially adjust the treatment.

Consider simplifying your homemade skincare routine temporarily or discussing the ingredients you used with your doctor to rule out product-induced acne.

Stay patient and consistent with your treatment, and keep communicating with your doctor.