- Young adults are prone to skin problems due to physical and hormonal changes.
- Common skin issues are acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.
- Treatments include facelifts (surgical and non-surgical), sunscreen, and medications prescribed by a dermatologist.
- Keeping the skin clean, avoiding triggers like stress and sunlight, using hypoallergenic products, and exfoliating regularly can help prevent skin problems.
- Sunscreen with at least SPF 30 helps block harmful UV rays and should be applied every two hours.
As the largest organ in your body, the skin plays a vital role in protecting your internal organs. However, the skin is also one of the most exposed and vulnerable parts of the body, which makes it prone to various skin problems.
One’s adolescent years and early twenties are typical times for skin problems, which can be frustrating and damaging to one’s self-confidence. Here’s what you need to know about why you’re susceptible to skin problems, the most common ones for young adults, and how to treat them.
Why Are Young Adults Susceptible to Skin Problems
Young adults tend to have more skin problems than other age groups because their bodies undergo the most physical changes, such as puberty and hormonal fluctuations. The hormones that cause acne can be triggered by stress, often experienced during this life stage. Additionally, young adults tend to have more exposed skin due to spending time outdoors or participating in sports activities.
Common Skin Problems Among Young Adults
Some skin problems are more common in this age range than others. Here are some of them:
Acne
The most common skin problem in young adults is acne, which affects 85% of people between 12 and 24. Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Keeping the skin clean and avoiding touching the face with dirty hands is essential to prevent acne. Use oil-free, non-comedogenic skin products, and avoid excessive sun exposure, which can worsen acne.
Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition that often develops in childhood but can persist into adulthood. Eczema causes red, itchy, and inflamed skin, which can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. To treat eczema, use gentle, hypoallergenic skincare products, and avoid scratching the skin. Use fragrance-free laundry detergents and avoid harsh chemical cleaners, which can irritate the skin.
Psoriasis
Another common skin condition in young adults is psoriasis, which affects around 7.5 million people in the US. Psoriasis causes red, scaly patches on the skin, which can be painful and itchy. Treatment options for psoriasis include topical creams, light therapy, and oral medication. If you suspect psoriasis, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a skin condition that affects the face, causing redness, bumps, and visible blood vessels. Rosacea is often mistaken for acne but requires a different treatment approach. Avoid triggers such as alcohol, spicy foods, and sunlight, which can exacerbate symptoms. Use gentle skincare products and avoid harsh exfoliants or abrasive scrubs.
Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin issue that causes patches of skin to become darker than the surrounding skin. This can be caused by sun damage and your hormones. Always wear sunscreen when outside to prevent hyperpigmentation and avoid picking at pimples. Exfoliate regularly and use products containing vitamin C and retinol to brighten and even out the skin tone.
Treatments And Prevention
Thankfully, some ways exist to treat and prevent these skin problems. Here are some of them:
Facelifts
Specific cosmetic procedures can be a way to treat skin problems and even prevent them. A facelift is one of the best treatments for acne, scarring, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Excess skin is removed and tightened during a facelift to reduce wrinkles and lines. It can also remove damaged or dead skin cells to reveal brighter and smoother skin. If you don’t like the idea of surgery, many affordable non-surgical facelifts are now available. These facelifts utilize lasers, radio-frequency, and ultrasound energy to tighten skin without surgery.
Sunscreen
Protecting your skin with sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine. Sunscreen helps block harmful UV rays and prevent sunburn, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and other skin damage. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours.
Dermatologist-Prescribed Medication
If over-the-counter treatments don’t work, a dermatologist can prescribe medications to help treat skin problems. Common medications include topical creams, oral antibiotics, and retinoids. These are stronger than over-the-counter products and can be tailored to your needs for better results.
Overall, young adults are more prone to skin problems due to the physical and hormonal changes they experience during this life stage. However, there are ways to treat and prevent skin problems, such as facelifts and sunscreen. You can keep your skin healthy and glowing with the right treatment plan!
