A recent study by the University of Oulu has found that adult acne is more prevalent among Finnish women than previously believed. The research, which included nearly 1,900 women aged 35, revealed that about 31 percent had acne on their face or back. Despite this high prevalence, many women did not recognize their symptoms and few sought treatment.
Dermatologists assessed photographs of each participant’s face and back to determine the presence and severity of acne. The results showed that facial acne was most common, affecting 26 percent of participants. Acne appeared on the back in about 12 percent of cases, while 6 percent had both facial and back acne. Most cases were mild, but over one in ten participants had moderate forms; severe cases were rare.
The study highlighted a significant gap in self-awareness: only about one-third of those diagnosed with acne by a doctor reported experiencing it themselves. Awareness was even lower for back acne.
Treatment rates were low across all severities. Both over-the-counter and prescription medications were rarely used, including oral antibiotics and isotretinoin—treatments known to be effective and safe for more severe types.
Researchers suggest that poor recognition of symptoms may contribute to the lack of treatment for adult acne. They also note that while acne is commonly associated with adolescence, it is increasingly seen among adults—particularly concentrating around the chin and cheeks in women.
"Even mild acne can significantly affect well-being and mood, and adult acne has been shown to have an even greater impact on quality of life than teenage acne. For this reason, its treatment deserves attention. Acne lesions can also be painful," Sinikumpu notes.
Healthcare professionals are encouraged to address skin concerns proactively with adult patients. "Patients may leave skin symptoms unmentioned, thinking that doctors consider them trivial problems," Sinikumpu reflects.
The findings have been published in Acta Dermato-Venereologica.
