TL;DR 

  • Acne in your 30s is primarily due to hormonal fluctuations and lifestyle factors.
  • Adult cystic acne will especially be prominent among those with conditions like PCOS.
  • Oral medication like spironolactone alongside topicals like azelaic acid and Retacnyl will go a long way in managing adult acne.

Acne is often associated with adolescence, a pesky hallmark of teenage years. However, it lingers or even appears for the first time well into their 30s for many individuals.

This condition, referred to as adult acne, is not just frustrating but can also take a toll on one’s confidence. Here at SL Aesthetic Clinic, we encounter patients grappling with this issue daily.

So, let’s unpack why this happens and how you can face it confidently.

Why Am I Getting Acne in My 30s?

Help! I’m facing acne in my 30s!

Contrary to popular belief, acne isn’t solely a problem of youth and is more common than you think—Up to 41% of adults in Singapore, particularly women, struggle with adult acne. Some might even experience acne for the first time in their 30s despite having clear skin during their teenage years.

Adult acne is often driven by hormonal fluctuations, which can stimulate excess oil production and clog pores. Furthermore, life stages such as pregnancy, postpartum, and even stress-induced hormonal shifts can exacerbate this.

Lifestyle factors, including diet, poor sleep hygiene, and stress, can also contribute, but they are not the key culprits for adult acne. Additionally, environmental factors like pollution and improper skincare routines can further aggravate skin.

Also Read: Can Cystic Acne Ever Be Cured?

Does Hormonal Acne Go Away in Your 30s?

The short answer? It depends. Hormonal acne tends to follow a cyclical pattern, often flaring up during specific times in your menstrual cycle. For many, the condition may persist throughout their 30s unless adequately managed.

Hormonal acne typically appears along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks—These areas are rich in oil glands that are particularly sensitive to hormonal changes. Without intervention, hormonal acne may continue to disrupt your complexion, which is why following a personalised skincare plan with the help of a professional is crucial.

And while over-the-counter treatments may provide temporary relief, they are more often than not insufficient in handling hormonal acne.

At our clinic, we emphasise that tackling the root cause—which frequently lies within the endocrine system—is key to achieving lasting results.

How Can I Control Hormonal Acne in My 30s?

Managing hormonal acne requires a multi-faceted approach:

  1. Professional Consultation: A dermatologist or aesthetic doctor can help identify the underlying hormonal triggers.

  2. Prescription Medications: Spironolactone is one of the most effective and inexpensive treatments for hormonal acne. This medication works by blocking androgen receptors, which reduces excess oil production and subsequently decreases breakouts. Patients on spironolactone often describe it as “life-changing”, and for good reason.

  3. Topical Treatments: Powerful topicals like azelaic acid (Skinoren) and Retacnyl are alternatives for those hesitant about oral medication. Azelaic acid is anti-inflammatory and works to unclog pores while brightening post-acne marks. Retacnyl, a form of retinoid, promotes cell turnover and prevents pore blockage. Both options can significantly help acne-prone skin when used consistently. Plus, they safely complement other aesthetic treatments like laser therapy.

  4. Lifestyle Adjustments: While not the primary cause, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can complement medical treatments and help maintain clear skin.

You can achieve clearer, healthier skin by taking a comprehensive approach to managing hormonal acne. However, for some, underlying conditions like PCOS may make acne more persistent, leading us to the subsequent discussion.

What Does PCOS Acne Look Like?

Some individuals are more susceptible to hormonal acne due to underlying conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS, characterised by hormonal imbalances, can manifest variably, including irregular periods, weight gain, excessive facial hair (hirsutism) and acne.

Acne from PCOS typically appears as deep, cystic lesions concentrated around the jawline, chin, and neck. These breakouts can be stubborn and painful, often leaving behind hyperpigmentation or scarring if not managed properly. 

If you suspect your acne is linked to PCOS, consulting with both a dermatologist and a gynaecologist is vital. Together, they can create a tailored treatment plan that addresses both the skin and the underlying hormonal imbalance.

What Skincare Routine is Recommended for Adult Acne?

A proper skincare routine is the foundation of managing adult acne. Here’s a simple and effective regimen:

  1. Gentle Cleanser: Opt for a non-comedogenic cleanser to remove dirt and oil without stripping the skin. Non-comedogenic products are designed to avoid clogging pores, making them essential for acne-prone skin to prevent further breakouts.

  2. Treatment Serums: Incorporate products containing salicylic acid, niacinamide, or azelaic acid to reduce inflammation and unclog pores. Be mindful that some individuals may have sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients, so performing a patch test before application is advisable.

  3. Moisturiser: Even oily or acne-prone skin needs hydration. Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser with humectants like hyaluronic acid to draw moisture into the skin without clogging pores, and ceramides to help strengthen the skin barrier.

  4. Sunscreen: Protect your skin from UV damage with a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30. Sunscreen helps prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, shields sensitive skin from irritation, and maintains a healthy skin barrier, all of which are crucial for managing acne-prone skin. If you have sensitive skin or acne-prone skin, try using physical sunscreens instead.

    Read: How to apply sunscreen correctly for maximum coverage

  5. Gentle Exfoliants: Avoid harsh scrubs or overly drying products, as these can further exacerbate acne and irritate the skin. Instead, opt for gentle exfoliants containing ingredients like lactic acid or mandelic acid. These help remove dead skin cells sans the irritation.

Consistency is key, and results can take several weeks to become noticeable, so do not give up prematurely when trying a new routine or prescription.

What Is the Best Acne Treatment for Adults?

The best adult acne treatment varies depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Here are some top options:

  • Oral Medications: As mentioned earlier, spironolactone is a great option for hormonal acne. It reduces androgen levels, thereby controlling sebum production and inflammation, and can significantly improve in weeks. Studies have shown over 50% acne reduction in patients after Spironolactone treatment.

  • Topical Retinoids: Retacnyl or other retinoid creams can prevent breakouts and improve skin texture by promoting cell turnover and reducing clogged pores.

  • Aesthetic Treatments: Treatments like skin boosters and dermal fillers can help improve skin hydration, elasticity, and texture, which can reduce the appearance of acne scars. Such treatments stimulate collagen production and help acne-prone skin.

  • Sofwave and Laser Treatments: Sofwave and other laser treatments have proven effective in improving acne scars, employing collagen stimulation and skin regeneration. Sofwave is a popular option due to its painless, noninvasive nature and minimal downtime.

While laser therapy can be highly effective, it’s vital to approach treatment cautiously. 

Inappropriate laser procedures can sometimes worsen acne by increasing skin sensitivity and even causing new acne scars. Combining these treatments with a solid skincare routine often yields the best results. 

Always consult a professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for your skin.

Finding Professional Support for Adult Acne

Addressing adult acne can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether it’s understanding the nuances of acne in my 30s, managing hormonal acne, or treating acne from PCOS, the guidance of a doctor can make all the difference.


Let’s work together to restore your confidence. Talk to us.