when does pimples stop - #19763
I am 24 and seriously wondering when does pimples stop being a problem for me. Like, I've dealt with these annoying zits since middle school, and I thought once I hit adulthood, they'd just magically vanish, right? But nope! Just last week, I woke up to two new ones on my chin. Ugh! I've tried all these face washes and creams, you know the ones with "acne-fighting" labels, but it's like they just keep popping up. I even went to a derm last year, and she suggested some prescription stuff, but honestly, it didn't do much. The other day, my friend said something about hormonal changes and how that could be a cause. And then I started to wonder, when does pimples stop? Do they ever go away completely? I’ve heard some people say they get clearer skin with age but what if it’s different for me? Like, am I doomed to live with this forever? It’s exhausting, really! Am I missing something important in skincare or diet that could help? Just need some advice from anyone who’s been there.
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Doctors' responses
Acne is a common frustration, and it’s not unusual for it to persist into adulthood. While many people see improvement in their 20s or 30s, others might continue to have flare-ups. The persistence of acne often stems from a combination of genetic predisposition, hormonal fluctuations, and lifestyle factors. Hormonal changes can indeed play a significant role, especially around your menstrual cycle, which might explain those occasional breakouts you’ve been noticing. If the OTC products and a dermatology consultation didn’t resolve the issue, there could be several steps worth considering. Ensure you’re using non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) products, and remember to moisturize—dry skin can exacerbate acne. Sometimes, changing the type of prescription might be necessary, such as trying a different retinoid or an oral treatment like birth control pills or spironolactone, both of which can help with hormonal acne. In terms of diet, high-glycemic foods, and certain dairy products have been associated with worsened acne in some studies. You might experiment with reducing these components to see if there’s improvement. Also, try to minimize stress, as it can exacerbate acne. Although complete eradication may not be guaranteed, a tailored approach with a healthcare professional can often lead to significant improvement. If acne is severely affecting your quality of life, it’s worthwhile to revisit a dermatologist—sometimes another look and adjustments in treatment can make a difference.
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