Why do I have acne in my 30’s: Causes & Solutions
- Desteni Dominick
- Oct 4
- 4 min read
Experiencing adult acne can make you feel like you’re back in grade school, going through puberty. I’m sure you’ve tried all kinds of trending TikTok products, drugstore acne products, at-home drugstore treatments, influencer tips and tricks — and nothing has truly given you the results you want to achieve. It’s frustrating, exhausting, and, honestly, somewhat disheartening.
You’re not alone — adult acne affects more than 50% of adults, and it doesn’t care about age, career, or lifestyle. But here’s the good news: it’s treatable, manageable, and you can get your clear skin back.
What Causes Adult Acne?
Why Acne Happens in Your 30s...
Hormonal fluctuations — shifts in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone (especially around periods, pregnancy, or perimenopause) can increase oil production.
Stress — raises cortisol, which triggers oil glands and inflammation.
Slower cell turnover — as we age, dead skin cells shed less efficiently, leading to clogged pores.
Skincare or makeup products — using heavy, pore-clogging products or switching products too often can cause irritation and congestion.
Diet and lifestyle — sugar, dairy, high-glycemic foods, poor sleep, or alcohol can worsen acne.
Underlying health issues — conditions like PCOS or thyroid imbalances can show up on the skin as persistent breakouts.
Knowing the root cause is the first step — because acne at 30 is usually triggered by a mix of hormones, lifestyle, and product choices, not just one thing.
Understanding Why Clearing Acne Will Be A Journey & Not A Quick Fix.
Clearing acne is a journey and commitment that requires management after you get clear to STAY CLEAR. How quickly you see results and manage them depends on your consistency at home. Yes, professional treatments speed things up, but you really only need compatible products for your skin type and daily habits.
Think of it like working out: going to the gym twice a week won’t get results if your at-home habits aren’t on point. Skincare literally works the same way!
Committing To Your Acne Journey Is Your Turning Point.
I began to struggle with adult acne in my 20s. After using countless products with NO change, I furthered my esthetics education by becoming an acne expert. I understood that clearing acne is about your daily habits, lifestyle factors, diet, medication & using the right products for your skin type and type of acne. After making some lifestyle changes and staying committed to my clear skin journey, within 30 days, I noticed real improvement. 12 weeks later, my skin was dramatically clearer, and I achieved my goal of having clearer skin. I am currently keeping up with my daily skincare routine to manage my acne-prone skin.
Acne Journey Highlight!
My client, Myah told me she tried every acne product she could get her hands on and even saw a dermatologist with NO success. She joined my 12-week Acne Bootcamp Program, where I help guide and educate you to clear skin with a thorough skin analysis that will help me build you a custom skincare plan that includes an at-home skincare routine, corrective treatments, and lifestyle changes.
In just 3 months, Myah stayed consistent and cleared her acne! Now we are starting to reduce post-acne hyperpigmentation caused by acne, trauma from picking breakouts, and sun damage. Her journey further proves that commitment + guidance + a skincare plan works.
DO THIS, NOT THAT
Do This:
Cleanse gently daily (once in the morning, twice in the evening)
Use targeted serums like retinol, mandelic, or salicylic acid
Keep skin hydrated (hydration is essential before exfoliating)
Not That:
Over-exfoliating or using scrubs (never on inflamed acne)
Skipping sunscreen (reapply every 2–3 hours)
Constantly switching products (most products take 60 days to show true results)
5 Lifestyle Habits to Start Your Clear Skin Journey Today!
Reduce stress — avoid using your phone for the first 30 minutes after waking to prevent cortisol spikes
Switch pillowcases 1–2x weekly to reduce oil, bacteria, and hair product buildup
Stop using fabric softeners — they leave acne-triggering residue on sheets, towels, and pillowcases
Use fragrance-free laundry detergent to avoid fragrance-induced irritation
Apply sunscreen daily and reapply every 2–3 hours to prevent breakouts, dark spots, premature aging, and skin damage
Recommendations: Products, Ingredients, Treatments
Ingredients:
Mandelic Acid — reduces inflamed acne, boosts cell turnover
Glycolic Acid — reduces non-inflamed acne by breaking down dead skin cells and oil
Benzoyl / Hydrogen Peroxide — kills acne-causing bacteria
Retinoids — promote cell turnover, prevent new breakouts
Treatments I Offer:
Products That Are Keeping Me Clear:
Cleanser:
Barrier Balance Creamy Cleanser
Toners & Sprays:
Glymed Plus- CBD Mist Spray
Mixi Mist- Hypochlorous Acid Spray
Serums:
Mixi- 5% Mandelic
Face Reality- HydraRemedy
Neogenesis- Beta Glucan
Mr. Lulu- Retinal Azelaic Powder
Acne Creams:
Mixi- Hydroxi
Face Reality- Sulfur Spot Treatment
Moisturizer:
Glymed Plus- Comfort Cream
Sunscreen:
Mixi Mineral SPF 50
No more using dirty washcloths and rags: use code: SKINPARADISE24 to get 10% off
Clean Skin Club Towelettes
5 Quick Tips to Maintain Your Clear Skin.
Stick to your recommended routine — consistency is key
Avoid touching or picking your skin
Wash makeup brushes regularly
Change pillowcases weekly
Manage stress with mindful habits & hobbies
Acne Is NOT Your Identity...
Acne doesn't define you, and it doesn't have to be overcomplicated. Using the daily habits listed above can help kickstart your clear skin journey. What you do at home will get you 80% of your results, and the other 20% comes from my guidance and monthly maintenance, like in-person and virtual professional treatments. Yes, I can help guide you to clear skin without you leaving the comfort of your own home.
Get Clear, Stay Clear!
Ready to be guided by a certified acne expert to clearer, healthier skin that will instantly give you a confidence boost? Book an in-person or virtual consultation and let me build you a customized skincare plan that includes:
A deep dive chat about your lifestyle, skin concerns, and goals
Thorough skin analysis
Professional-grade product recommendations
Compatible corrective treatments