Pimples, major problems and blackheads at 30 - is this a late puberty?
Whether it's impure skin, blackheads or pimples, skin problems are quite normal during puberty. But not infrequently, adults also suffer from unpleasant pus stains and red patches on the face. But why is it that some still have to resort to over 30 to concealer and pimple cream? In an interview with the news agency "dpa" experts explain the phenomenon of "late" acne and give tips on what can be done about it.
Acne in puberty quite normal
Skin problems were already a major problem during puberty. Painful pimples and red spots spread all over the face, often affecting the back or other areas of the body such as the upper arms or the neck. But at the age of 14 or 15, the problem was less pronounced as most peers were also affected. It looks different when the pimples are still in their mid 20s. Because here is paid more attention to blemishes, which increases the shame of those affected and everything is done to hide the unpleasant places. Why some people still have 30 pimples and blackheads. Image: ThamKC - fotolia
Every fourth woman affected by adult acne
Women are more likely to suffer from the so-called adult acne: "One in four women between the ages of 25 and 45 has to contend with late acne," said Elena Helfenbein, beauty expert of the VKE cosmetics association, to the news agency "dpa". The causes are manifold, but the focus would be on the sebaceous glands, which in this case are increasingly active, adds Prof. Philipp Babilas. The increased activity causes the pores to enlarge and the skin to become greasier. Clogging the sebaceous glands caused blackheads, which is just as possible at 30 as in teenage years, according to the expert from Skin Center Regensburg, who is also a member of the Professional Association of German Dermatologists. The reason for the increased activity of the sebaceous glands could be, for example, a genetic predisposition.
Hormonal dysbalance can be the trigger
A hormonal imbalance may also be the cause if adult women suffer from skin problems. According to Prof. Babilas, for example, it is possible that there are too many male sex hormones that stimulate the sebaceous glands and eventually clog the pores faster. Likewise, discontinuing the pill or giving birth to a child can lead to hormonal changes and thus also to an altered complexion.
Diet can have a strong influence on the skin
Another important factor is the diet, because this can also affect the skin. As Barbara Fehrenbach from the German Beauticians Association (BDK) explains, foods with a high glycemic index, for example, would affect the skin. Because this increases the blood sugar level, the sebaceous gland production would also be boosted, which leads to blackheads and pimples more quickly. Accordingly, the expert should be followed with high sugar or carbohydrate-rich foods and "bad" fat measure.
Dairy products could also increase skin problems due to the pro-inflammatory effect of the proteins involved, said Prof. Philipp Babilas. Therefore, it is recommended that even animal proteins in moderation and instead better to eat plenty of vegetables and fruits. It is also important to have a sufficient daily drinking volume of at least 1.5 liters of water, adds Emel Bütün from the Hamburg Vocational College for Cosmetics (HBK).
Skin is the mirror of the soul
Bütün points to the important role of the psyche: "Our skin is our mirror," says the expert. The physical and mental well-being is therefore recognizable on the skin. Often those affected would not leave the pimple alone, but instead "ping-pong" it with their fingers. With fatal consequences, because hands and fingers are never clinically pure, the acne bacteria would still be distributed, explains Barbara Fehrenbach.
Likewise, unsuitable care products can cause skin blemishes. "Very rich night creams or anti-aging creams can be a cause," warns Thomas Dirschka from the Federal Association of German Dermatologists to the news agency "dpa". Instead, Barbara Fehrenbach recommends to resort to a light cream or mild wash gel containing as little as possible of chemical ingredients. Emel Bütün also advises on moisturizing care - moreover, according to the experts, it is important that the face is cleansed both in the evening and in the morning.
An appointment with a beautician can provide information about the skin type and possible problems such as pimples or blackheads. An inflammatory acne should, however, be examined by a dermatologist, because this could also be an indication of another skin disease. "Rosacea also shows itself with inflammatory sites, laymen can confuse that," says Dirschka. For treatment, according to Bütün, for example, a fruit acid peeling comes into consideration, which removes the uppermost skin cells and gently cleanses the skin. In a severe form of acne, the dermatologist can also prescribe an antibiotic, which is low-dose and reduce the degree of inflammation, continues Dirschka. "The aim is to stabilize the appearance of the skin," adds Bütün.
Apple cider vinegar as a natural home remedy for acne
Help can also provide various home remedies for pimples. For external use, for example, healing clay can be used, as it absorbs toxins and inflammatory products and inhibits the formation of pimples. Chamomile tea bags on the affected areas may have anti-inflammatory effect, as well as apple cider vinegar is a proven home remedy for acne. This has an antibacterial effect and can promote detoxification, in addition, the pores are reduced by the fruit acid, which contributes to a refinement of the skin's appearance. The vinegar can therefore be used both for cleaning and to treat inflammation and to promote clean skin. (No)