Teen Acne vs. Adult Acne: Different Skin, Different Treatment

Do you think acne ends after high school? It doesn’t. For most, it lingers, flares up in cycles, or returns stronger years later.

Teen acne and adult acne may look the same in the mirror. But under the surface, they’re different. If your routine is not working, it’s likely because you’re treating the wrong kind of acne.

In this blog we will explain what’s really going on and how our custom acne treatments in Leawood, KS are built to fix it at any age.

Acne Treatment: Different Causes, Same Breakouts

What’s triggering acne in teens vs. adults

Teen acne is triggered by hormone shifts, excess oil, and poor skincare habits. Add sports, heavy makeup, and sugar-heavy diets, and you’ve got constant breakouts.

The following are key differences between teen and adult skin:

• Teen acne: blackheads on the nose, forehead whiteheads, or post-practice flare-ups.
• Adult acne: deep, painful cysts along the jawline that show up before your period and stick around.

Same look. Different root. That’s why drugstore kits fail and “cleanser-hopping” makes it worse.

How Skin Changes with Age

Why can teen skin bounce back and adult skin can’t

Most acne advice ignores this: skin changes with age.

• Teen skin: Oilier. Heals well and recovers faster. More resilient.
• Adult skin: Drier. Slower recovery. Prone to inflammation and scarring.

That’s why the same harsh cleansers you used at 17 are now making things worse.

Types and Symptoms of Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns we see in Leawood, Kansas, affecting patients of all ages and backgrounds. Understanding the different types and symptoms of acne is a crucial first step in finding the best treatment and care for your unique needs.

There are several types of acne, each with its own set of challenges. Mild acne often shows up as blackheads, whiteheads, or the occasional small pimple. Moderate acne can mean more frequent breakouts, larger pimples, or even tender cysts that linger longer than you’d like. Severe acne may involve deep, painful cysts, widespread inflammation, and can sometimes lead to long-term scarring if not treated properly.

Symptoms can look different from one patient to the next. You might notice redness, swelling, or itching, while others may struggle with pus-filled pimples or stubborn bumps that just won’t go away. For many, acne isn’t just a skin issue, it can also affect confidence, self-esteem, and even social life.

At Exhale Skin Studio, we know that no two cases of acne are exactly alike. That’s why our team takes the time to get to know each patient, their skin history, and their specific concerns. With years of experience providing care in Leawood, we offer several advanced acne treatments, including medical-grade skincare, blue light therapy, and chemical peels, all tailored to your skin’s needs.

Our approach is always patient-centered. We believe in providing the best possible care, taking the time to listen, answer questions, and create a plan that works for you. Whether your acne is mild, moderate, or severe, our team is here to help you get the results you want and the healthy, clear skin you deserve. When you trust your skin to our hands, you can feel confident you’re getting expert care that’s focused on your long-term needs.

What We Do for Teen Acne Treatment

No over-drying, no damage

At Exhale Skin Studio, we don’t just target breakouts. We calm the skin, clear congestion, and build habits.

Teen acne treatments include:

• Custom acne facials for oily, congested skin
• Gentle extractions, they’re safe, clean, effective
• Face Reality Certified homecare plans
• One-on-one education teens will actually follow

We provide personalized teen acne treatment plans to ensure each client receives the care that best suits their skin’s needs.

One teen client went from full-coverage concealer daily to clear skin by prom in under 8 weeks.

What We Do for Adult Acne Treatment

Hormonal. Stubborn. Chronic. Treat it differently.

Adult acne is different. It doesn’t respond to teen-style treatments. It needs strategy.

We focus on:

• Barrier-repair acne facials with calming, corrective ingredients
• LED therapy to kill bacteria and speed healing
• Tailored homecare based on your skin’s real needs
• Support for hormone cycles and stress breakouts

One client in her 40s came to us after trying everything. Six weeks later, her skin was calm, clear, and under control. To maintain these results, it’s important to continue with your personalized homecare plan and regular check-ins.

What Our Clients Say About Their Skin

We don’t just treat acne, we help real people get their skin (and confidence) back—and feel great about it.

Here’s what some of them had to say after visiting Exhale Skin Studio in Leawood:

“Ashley has been a saving grace for my teenage niece.”“She walked her step by step through home care and helped her find products best for her skin type. My skin has also changed for the better since coming to Exhale. They’re knowledgeable and amazing at what they do. We won’t go anywhere else!” – Stephanie O.

“My daughter and I love it all.”“Been going here for years! Waxing, dermaplane, brow tint, microdermabrasion, teen acne facial… my daughter and I love it all!” – Rach C.

“I’ve been coming every 4–6 weeks since 2013.”“Jessica, Liz, and Ashley are AMAZING. I trust I’m in the best hands and can ask them anything about skincare. My skin keeps improving, and I’ll never regret investing in their care and advice.” – Lindsey B.

“I’m super picky, and I always leave happy.”“Every esthetician I’ve seen is professional, knowledgeable, and kind. I love the seasonal facials and also get waxing here. I’m particular about where I spend my time and money and I keep coming back for a reason.” – Celeste A.

Why Store-Bought Products Don’t Always Help

What they won’t tell you on the label

Over-the-counter products aren’t made for your skin. They’re generic and often harsh.

• They strip the barrier and trigger more breakouts
  
• “Acne kits” treat symptoms, not causes
  
• Trending products rarely solve chronic acne

Professional treatment means custom care. It evolves as your skin does, with real tracking and adjustment.

The longer you wait, the higher the risk of scarring especially with adult acne.

How Do You Actually Clear Acne?

Clear skin isn’t something you get out of luck

Acne doesn’t clear on its own. Hoping your skin “figures it out” doesn’t work.

At Exhale Skin Studio, we recommend:

• A series of 4–6 targeted acne treatment
• Homecare that fits your age, skin, and goals
• Progress check-ins to adjust along the way

Most clients see results within weeks and keep improving after the series ends.

Let’s Help You Clear Your Skin

No more what if’s. No more wasted time.

Whether you’re 16 or 36, you don’t have to live with breakouts. You just need the right tools and the right expert.

We specialize in teen and adult acne treatment in Leawood, KS, helping clients get clear skin without what if’s or wasted money.

Grab your consult now and get real answers from a skin expert who gets results.