Q: I'm 54—why do I suddenly have acne problems?

Ask the Doctor

Nanette F. Santoro, MD

It may come as a surprise, but middle-age women suffer from acne more often than any other group.

Changes in hormone levels—like the ones women experience as they go through menopause—are the most common cause of acne flare-ups. Discontinuing birth control, taking certain medications, having a family history of acne, or using irritating hair or skin products can...