Derm Talk with Dr. Whitney Tolpinrud

You're a woman of a certain (spectacular) age; Why does your skin think you're a teenager?

Hello, Gorgeous!

I’ve received a flurry of questions from some of you recently. I’ll try to tackle topics that come up most often.

This time around, board certified dermatologist Dr. Whitney Tolpinrud helps us understand why our skin might be going through a rebellious phase.

(Catch up on Derm Talk with dermatologic surgeon Dr. Howard Sobel here).

Responses have been edited slightly for length and clarity.

Which hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors cause adults to experience teenage-like acne past the age of 40?

Dr. Whitney Tolpinrud said:

While acne is often thought of as a teenage problem, many women experience breakouts well into middle age. This is often due to a complex interplay of hormonal, genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly increased androgen levels, can trigger excess oil production and clogged pores. Acne appearing on the lower cheek, chin and jaw areas can be a clue for hormonal acne.

While acne is often thought of as a …