Why You’re Still Getting Breakouts in Your 30s and 40s — and What to Do About It
Thought acne was just a teenage problem? You’re not alone — but it’s not that simple.
At Platinum Cosmetics, we see just as many clients in their 30s and 40s with breakout-prone skin as we do younger clients. And in many cases, adult acne is even more stubborn, sensitive, or confusing to manage.
Here’s why adult breakouts happen, how they differ from teenage acne, and what actually works to treat them without compromising your skin.
Why Adult Acne Happens
Adult breakouts are often driven by:
Hormonal fluctuations (especially around the menstrual cycle, perimenopause, or contraception changes)
Chronic stress — which increases cortisol and oil production
Inflammation and impaired barrier function
Diet, sleep, or lifestyle changes
Incorrect skin care or overuse of actives
Unlike teenage acne, adult breakouts are usually:
Deeper, slower to heal
Concentrated around the jawline and chin
More reactive to stress or environmental triggers
Often accompanied by dry or sensitive skin
Why Over-Treating Can Make It Worse
Many clients try to fight adult acne with harsh exfoliants, stripping cleansers, or too many actives layered at once. The result? A damaged barrier, increased inflammation, and skin that’s red, dry, and still breaking out.
If this sounds familiar, the solution isn’t stronger products — it’s smarter support.
How We Treat Adult Acne in Clinic
Our approach is personalised, barrier-conscious, and grounded in results — not quick fixes.
1. Skin Rejuvenation Treatments
We use skin needling and gentle peels to improve texture, reduce post-acne marks, and support long-term healing. These treatments stimulate collagen and help regulate oil production without harsh exfoliation.
2. Fotona Laser for Active Breakouts
Our Fotona laser can be used to gently reduce inflammation, target overactive oil glands, and calm acne-causing bacteria — ideal for clients who want non-invasive, evidence-based support.
3. Barrier-Repairing Facials and Skin Care
We help calm inflamed skin and restore function with hydrating facials and targeted skin care. This is especially important for clients with dry or sensitive skin who are still breaking out — a group often overlooked in traditional acne treatments.
4. Realistic Planning and Ongoing Support
We’ll help you avoid the cycle of overdoing it and starting over. Instead, we build a sustainable plan that’s gentle, effective, and tailored to your skin’s needs over time.
Book an Acne Consultation in Port Melbourne
If you’re still dealing with breakouts and not sure where to turn, we’re here to help. Book a consultation and let’s create a plan that clears breakouts, repairs your skin, and supports long-term clarity — without damaging your barrier or your confidence.