Why You’re Breaking Out in Your 40s: The Grown-Up Acne Guide with Dr. Sam Bunting

I’ve had so many friends reaching out lately saying the same thing: "I’m in my 40s... why am I suddenly getting spots?!" and it feels like some sick joke to be dealing with fine lines and breakouts at the same time. To get some answers, I sat down with the incredible Dr. Sam Bunting, a dermatologist who has spent the last 15 years helping women navigate the complexities of adult acne and troublesome ‘grown up’ skin.

In this episode, Sam and I discuss:

1. The "U-Zone" vs. The "T-Zone": Why adult breakouts happen around the jawline and chin (aka the "Triangle of Doom") rather than the forehead.
2. Is it Acne or just a "Breakout"?: Sam explains why the label doesn't matter as much as the mechanism behind the clogged pore.
3. The 4-Step Morning Routine: We strip away the "skincare fluff" and get back to the basics: Cleanse, Activate, Hydrate, and Protect.
4. The Big Three Ingredients: How to use Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid, and Retinoids without destroying your skin barrier.

I also shared how quitting alcohol changed my skin, and Sam gave us some brilliant advice on "emptying the stress tank" to keep our hormones - and our skin - clear and calm.

If you want to find more about Sam, book in for a consult or try products from her skincare brand, you can find her here:

1. Official Website & Shop: DrSamBunting.com
2. The Clinic: Dr. Sam Bunting + Associates
3. Instagram: @drsambunting
4. YouTube: Dr. Sam Bunting

Resources Mentioned in this Episode

Sam highlighted these as the non-negotiables for clearing adult breakouts while supporting the skin barrier:

1. Azelaic Acid
2. Salicylic Acid
3. Retinoids

Book Recommendation: Atomic Habits by James Clear. Sam mentioned this as the blueprint for building the discipline needed for a consistent skincare routine.

Also don't forget to follow me on:

Instagram: @thebeautyed

Substack: @donnathebeautyed

And this show on Instagram: @smilinggivesyouwrinkles

See you next week!