adult acne

Breaking Out in Your 40s? Here’s Why (and What to Do About It)

Adult Acne in Your 40s Is More Common Than You Think

Still getting pimples in your 40s? You’re not alone — and you’re not doing anything wrong.
In fact, more women and men in their 30s and 40s are reporting new or recurring breakouts, often for the first time since their teenage years.

Now, the question that you may be asking yourself is "Why now?"

Why You Might Be Breaking Out in Your 40s

Hormonal Changes (Perimenopause + Estrogen Drop): In your 40s, estrogen levels begin to decline, especially if you're entering perimenopause. When estrogen dips, testosterone becomes more dominant, which can trigger increased oil (sebum) production and clogged pores.

  1. Stress & Cortisol: Whether it’s career pressure, family responsibilities, or life transitions, your 40s can be one of the most stressful decades. Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which also increases inflammation and oil production.
  2. Slower Skin Turnover: As we age, skin regenerates more slowly. Dead skin cells linger longer, making it easier for pores to get clogged with oil, bacteria, and debris.
  3. Overuse of Harsh Products: Years of exfoliating, scrubbing, and using aggressive “anti-ageing” treatments can leave your skin barrier sensitive and inflamed, which worsens adult acne.

How to Treat Hormonal Acne Gently (And Effectively)

If you’re breaking out in your 40s, the goal isn’t to fight your skin — it’s to support and heal it. Here’s how:

  1. Simplify Your Routine: Avoid 10-step routines packed with actives. Focus on gentle cleansers, lightweight hydration, and targeted care.
  2. Use Targeted Spot Treatments: Not all acne needs a full-face treatment. Spot patches can reduce inflammation and speed up healing, without damaging healthy skin.

The Superdots Solution: Made for Adult Breakouts

We created The Superdots for skin that’s breaking out, not breaking down.

Supercharged Clarifying Patch

Infused with active ingredients to calm redness, reduce swelling, and help breakouts clear up quickly.
✔ For inflamed, painful pimples
✔ Perfect for hormonal chin/jawline acne
✔ Works while you sleep

Invisapatch Repair Barrier Patch

A hydrocolloid patch that protects, soothes, and promotes healing — without irritation.
✔ For healing skin, scabs, or post-picking
✔ Prevents bacteria and scarring
✔ Ultra-thin + invisible under makeup

Shop Our Acne-Prone Bundle

You're Not Too Old for Acne or Confidence

Acne at 40 (and older) is real, and so is your right to feel good in your skin. Whether it’s one stubborn spot or recurring flare-ups, you don’t have to go through it alone.

Try patches designed for real skin. Backed by science, rooted in empathy.

Shop Now
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