WASHINGTON — The American Academy of Dermatology says 50 percent of women deal with acne flare-ups long after they leave their teenage years.

When you’re an adolescent, the flare-ups are likely the result of fluctuating hormones. Women have fluctuations at other points in their lives, particularly during pregnancy and menopause.

But when you’re older, a lot of other factors can send your skin into a tailspin.

Sometimes, adult acne is the result of using certain hair and skin care products. Many anti-aging creams, for example, include heavy moisturizers that can clog pores, and the Academy of Dermatology suggests checking labels and opting for products that are “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic.”

Dermatologists say stress and exhaustion can also have a big impact on your skin. And sometimes, a new medication can set off a bout of acne or make an existing flare-up worse.

Finally, doctors warn that what may look like acne may be something else completely — either rosacea or a related form of dermatitis.

In that case, it is best not to self-treat and see a dermatologist instead.

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