Adult Acne Affects Nearly One-Third of Finnish Women, Often Goes Undiagnosed
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A new study reveals that adult acne is far more prevalent than commonly believed, impacting nearly one-third of 35-year-old women in Finland. The research, published in the journal Acta Dermato-Venereologica, highlights a significant gap in awareness and treatment, with many women unaware they even have the condition.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Oulu, involved nearly 1,900 women. Participants underwent a thorough examination, including photographs of their face and back taken without makeup, which were then assessed by dermatologists for the presence and severity of acne.
Prevalence of Adult Acne: Beyond the Face
Results indicated that approximately 26 percent of participants experienced facial acne, while 12 percent had back acne. A further 6 percent presented with both facial and back breakouts. This finding underscores that acne is not limited to the face, with back acne being surprisingly common, yet often overlooked.
“Skin changes on the back may be mistaken for harmless heat spots, even though they are often acne,” a specialist in dermatology and allergology noted. Untreated acne, whether on the face or back, can lead to permanent scarring.
Under-Recognition and Limited Treatment
The study revealed a concerning lack of self-awareness regarding acne. Only about one-third of the women whose acne was identified by a doctor reported experiencing it themselves. This self-reporting rate was even lower for back acne, suggesting many women may not recognize the condition or dismiss it as something else.
This lack of recognition translated directly into limited treatment. Both over-the-counter and prescription acne medications were reported to be used sparingly. Even in cases of moderate to severe acne, treatments like oral antibiotics and isotretinoin – proven effective and safe – were rarely utilized. Researchers believe this is largely due to the poor recognition of symptoms.
Impact on Quality of Life and the Need for Proactive Care
While most cases observed were mild, over one in ten participants experienced a moderate form of acne, with only a small percentage experiencing severe breakouts. However, even mild acne can significantly impact well-being and mood.
“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,” the specialist explained. “For this reason, its treatment deserves attention. Acne lesions can also be painful.”
The researchers strongly recommend that healthcare professionals proactively discuss skin health, including the possibility of acne, with their adult patients. “Patients may leave skin symptoms unmentioned, thinking that doctors consider them trivial problems,” the specialist reflected.
The study, published in July 2025, emphasizes the importance of destigmatizing adult acne and encouraging open communication between patients and healthcare providers.
Source: Telkkälä, A., et al. (2025). The Prevalence and Characteristics of Adult Female Acne: A Cross-sectional Population-based Study. Acta Dermato-Venereologica. DOI: 10.2340/actadv.v105.44151. https://medicaljournalssweden.se/actadv/article/view/44151.
