Adult acne: why it happens and what helps
TL;DR
Adult acne is common, especially in women, and is often linked to hormones, stress, products and genetics. Breakouts tend to sit around the jaw and chin. A consistent, gentle routine helps, and salon treatments such as chemical peels and SKINSTORM can calm congestion and improve marks. See a GP for painful, persistent or scarring acne, as prescription treatment may be needed.
Adult acne can be frustrating, especially if you had clear skin as a teenager. Many people find breakouts start, or come back, in their twenties, thirties or forties, often around the jaw, chin and mouth.
This guide explains why it happens, when to see a GP, which salon treatments can help and how to build a routine that keeps breakouts under control. Gina has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry and specialises in skincare, so this is the same advice we give clients with breakouts at our Sutton Coldfield salon.
Quick facts
- Who it affects
- common in adults, especially women
- Common causes
- hormones, stress, products, genetics and some medications
- Typical areas
- jaw, chin and around the mouth
- Treatments that can help
- chemical peels and SKINSTORM
- See a GP if
- acne is painful, persistent or leaving scars
- Price
- peels from £40, SKINSTORM from £175
- First step
- a free skin consultation
What causes adult acne?
Adult acne happens for the same basic reason as teenage acne. Oil, dead skin and bacteria block the pores and cause inflammation. What's different is what triggers it. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that adult acne is common, particularly in women, and is often linked to hormones.
- Hormones: changes around periods, pregnancy, coming off the pill, perimenopause or conditions such as PCOS.
- Stress: stress hormones can increase oil production.
- Products: heavy, pore-clogging skincare, makeup or hair products.
- Genetics: acne often runs in families.
- Medications: some medicines can trigger breakouts.
When should you see a GP about adult acne?
See a GP if your acne is painful, deep, widespread, leaving scars or affecting how you feel. The NHS acne guidance explains that prescription treatments can help when over-the-counter products haven't worked. Salon treatments work well alongside medical care, but they aren't a replacement for it.
Which salon treatments help adult acne?
The right treatment depends on whether your skin is mainly congested, inflamed or marked from past breakouts.
Chemical peels
Our chemical peels help clear blocked pores, calm congestion and fade the marks breakouts leave behind. We usually start gently and build up over a course.
SKINSTORM
A SKINSTORM facial deep-cleanses, resurfaces and finishes with light therapy, including blue light, which makes it a good option for congested and problematic skin.
Treatments to save for later
Dermaplaning and microneedling aren't suitable over active, inflamed breakouts. Once your skin has calmed, microneedling can help with acne scarring. Our guide to the best treatments for acne scars explains more.
Gina's tip: Change your pillowcase twice a week and clean your phone screen regularly. They're two of the easiest ways to cut down on bacteria touching your face.
What daily habits help adult acne?
- Cleanse twice a day with a gentle cleanser, and double cleanse if you wear makeup or SPF.
- Use a salicylic acid (BHA) product a few times a week to clear pores.
- Choose non-comedogenic moisturisers and makeup.
- Don't pick or squeeze, as it can cause marks and scarring.
- Wear SPF every day, as sun can darken post-acne marks. The NHS sun safety advice helps you choose one.
Who should check with us first
If you're taking prescription acne medication, such as isotretinoin (Roaccutane) or topical retinoids, tell us before booking, as some treatments need to wait until you've finished.
How much does adult acne treatment cost?
At Gina Rose Beauty, chemical peels start from £40 and SKINSTORM from £175, or £950 for a course of six. We'll recommend the right plan for your adult acne at your free consultation.
About the author
Gina is the owner of Gina Rose Beauty in Sutton Coldfield and has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry. She specialises in advanced skincare and runs a fully accredited training academy for aspiring beauty professionals. Meet Gina and the team. Last reviewed: October 2026.
Book a free skin consultation in Sutton Coldfield
Struggling with breakouts? Book a free, no-obligation consultation and we'll recommend a treatment plan and routine for your skin, with clear pricing. Book your free skin consultation on Fresha
You can also read more about what happens at a skin consultation, congested skin treatment, or explore all our skincare treatments.
Frequently asked questions
Why am I getting adult acne?
Adult acne is often linked to hormones, stress, pore-clogging products, genetics or some medications. It's especially common in women.
What is the best treatment for adult acne?
The best treatment for adult acne depends on your skin. Chemical peels and SKINSTORM can help congestion and marks, and a GP can prescribe treatment for painful or persistent acne.
Why do I get spots on my jaw and chin?
Breakouts around the jaw and chin are often hormonal and are common in adult women.
When should I see a GP about acne?
If it's painful, deep, widespread, leaving scars or affecting how you feel, or if over-the-counter products haven't helped.
Can I have dermaplaning with acne?
Not over active, inflamed breakouts. We'll check your skin and recommend a suitable alternative.
Can I have a peel if I'm on acne medication?
Tell us first. Some medications, such as isotretinoin, mean treatments need to wait.
Is the skin consultation free?
Yes. Our consultation is free and there's no obligation to book a treatment.