Understanding Acne in Adulthood
Acne is often considered a teenage affliction, but breakouts are not exclusive to adolescence. In fact, acne can persist well into adulthood and is estimated to impact over 50% of grown men and women aged 20 to 40 years old. For some, the condition simply continues unresolved from the teen years. For others, acne strikes for the first time after their 20s. While the underlying mechanisms are similar, there are unique factors that contribute to adult acne.
Just as with teen acne, adult acne arises when oil and dead skin cells clog the pores and hair follicles. This enables bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes to build up and trigger inflammation. The end result shows up on the surface as whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and cysts. Adult acne tends to concentrate around the lower face along the jawline, chin, and neck.
Adult acne can be triggered or aggravated by various elements like hormones, medications, diet, stress, habits, and lifestyle choices. Identifying and addressing the root causes is key to clearing up breakouts. With some tweaks to your daily routine, you can minimize flareups and achieve consistently clear, healthy skin.
Can Making Out Cause Acne Breakouts?
Yes, intimate physical contact like making out can lead to acne in adults. There are a few reasons behind this:
Transfer of Oils and Bacteria
Skin-to-skin contact allows oils, dead cells, and microbes to move from one face to the other. As you rub faces while kissing, you essentially spread pore-clogging debris and pimple-causing bacteria back and forth.
Making out also introduces bacteria from the mouth and saliva to the facial skin. Oral bacteria species like Streptococcus and Staphylococcus have been linked to inflammatory acne lesions.
Friction and Irritation
The physical friction of making out can worsen acne by irritating existing pimples, clogged pores, and inflamed skin. Vigorous rubbing and pressure on the face creates micro-tears and aggravates skin irritation.
Furthermore, any beard stubble or scruff from your partner can cause micro-abrasions and reddened spots termed beard burn. These compromised areas are more prone to breakouts.
Makeup Transfer
Making out with someone wearing makeup can leave pigments and products on your face that clog pores. Oil-based products like foundation, concealer, and lip colors tend to be most problematic.
Cosmetic waxes and silicones can also lead to congestion and acne eruptions. Additionally, makeup brushes and applicators harbor bacteria that you could pick up through close contact.
Stress Hormones
The act of kissing triggers the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. While exciting, these stress hormones indirectly stimulate oil production and inflammation.
A flushed complexion from arousal has similarities to the inflammatory response that causes acne. Over time, these temporary hormonal spikes from repeated kissing and intimacy can induce breakouts.
Tips to Prevent Acne from Making Out
While you cannot completely avoid acne from kissing and intimacy, you can take steps to minimize breakouts:
Gently Cleanse Before and After
Wash your face with a mild cleanser before and after making out sessions to remove excess oil, makeup, and bacteria buildup. Avoid abrasive scrubs or cleansing tools.
Use Non-Comedogenic Makeup
If you wear makeup, look for non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) formulas, and avoid applying heavy products close to the mouth. This reduces transfer.
Shave Properly
For those with facial hair, always shave thoroughly prior with a clean razor. Use light strokes in the direction of growth to avoid irritation.
Apply Moisturizer
Keep skin hydrated with an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer suited to acne-prone skin. Well-moisturized skin is less prone to inflammation.
Use Acne Medication
Incorporate acne treatments like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid into your regimen. These help unclog pores and fight pimples.
Avoid Touching Your Face
Reduce contact with hands to minimize oil and germ transfer. Popping, picking, or touching existing pimples can worsen irritation.
Watch Your Diet
Eat a balanced, low glycemic diet and stay hydrated to help control acne-promoting hormones and inflammation.
Manage Stress
Make time for relaxing activities to lower stress hormone levels. Consider mind-body practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
When to See a Dermatologist
See your dermatologist if you experience severe, persistent acne that does not respond to over-the-counter care. A dermatologist can assess your specific acne causes and devise a tailored treatment plan.
Options to clear up recalcitrant adult acne include:
- Prescription topical medications
- Oral antibiotics
- Hormonal therapies
- Isotretinoin (for severe cystic acne)
- Photodynamic therapy
- Chemical peels
- Corticosteroid injections
Your dermatologist can also recommend medical-grade cleansers, moisturizers, and other products suited to your skin type and condition.
The Bottom Line
Kissing and intimacy can trigger breakouts by spreading bacteria, oils, and irritants across both partners' faces. While you cannot completely prevent acne from making out and sex, proper hygiene, skincare, and lifestyle habits can help minimize pimples and flare-ups. See a doctor if over-the-counter methods are not keeping adult acne under control.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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