Why Do I Have Adult Acne and How Can I Get Rid of It?

Waking up to breakouts as an adult is incredibly frustrating. You might feel like you are back in high school. At Kessel Dermatology in Hamilton Square, NJ, Dr. Daniel S. Kessel and our team understand this struggle. Adult acne is not a sign of poor hygiene. It is a medical condition that requires professional care. Through our general dermatology services, we help you find the root cause of your breakouts and clear your skin.

Why am I breaking out as an adult? 

Adult acne is a chronic inflammatory disease, not a temporary phase. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne affects nearly 50 million Americans each year. In adults, breakouts are often driven by hormones and deep inflammation. Even if your blood tests are normal, your skin's oil glands can hyper-react to daily hormonal shifts. This reaction leads to deep, painful cysts along your jawline and neck.

Common triggers for adult breakouts include: 

• Hormonal fluctuations
• Chronic stress
• Using harsh, stripping skincare products 

At our Hamilton Square, NJ office, we evaluate your unique skin to identify these triggers.

What are the best treatments for adult acne?

Getting rid of adult acne requires targeted medical therapies rather than harsh scrubs. For women, oral spironolactone is a highly effective option. In a 2025 study of 563 women, those taking spironolactone were six times more likely to see acne improvement than those on a placebo. This medication blocks hormones from triggering excess oil production.

For topical care, prescription gels can clear active spots and fade dark marks. A 2026 study of 20 women showed that a 15% azelaic acid gel reduced key inflammatory markers after six months. We offer these advanced medical treatments to target your acne from the inside out.

How we treat adult acne at Kessel Dermatology

We believe that successful acne treatment must protect your skin barrier. Adult skin dries out faster and heals more slowly than teenage skin. Our team of eight providers designs a gentle, customized routine for your specific skin type. We combine prescription-strength actives with hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizers. This balanced approach ensures you can clear your breakouts without causing redness or irritation.

You do not have to live with the discomfort of adult breakouts. Our experienced team is ready to help you achieve clear, healthy skin. To get started on your personalized treatment plan, schedule a free consultation with Kessel Dermatology in Hamilton Square, NJ today.