Acne in adults is unfortunately, far harder to treat than in teenagers. It is due to the same causes though. In simple terms, a change in the hormone levels causes the oil in the glands just under the skin to become thicker, and this blocks up the ducts leading from the oil glands to the surface of the skin. The gland then becomes infected and a pimple develops. Because women have more hormonal problems than men, it is far more common for women to develop adult acne. Changing the hormone levels by using a contraceptive pill (or a different strength of one) often helps the problem. The antibiotics and skin lotions used by teenagers are also helpful.