In which age group is acne typically most prevalent due to hormonal changes?

Acne is most commonly associated with the hormonal changes that occur during puberty, which typically affects teenagers. During this time, there is a surge in androgens—hormones that stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to increased oil production in the skin. This excess oil can clog pores, resulting in acne.

While there are other age groups that can experience acne, such as adults in their 30s and 40s due to hormonal fluctuations, the prevalence in this group is lower compared to teenagers. Infants may experience a type of acne known as neonatal acne, which is usually mild and resolves on its own, while seniors over 60 may experience a different skin condition altogether, often related to dryness and aging rather than hormonal shifts. The teenage years are uniquely characterized by the high prevalence of acne linked to these significant hormonal changes.