Did you know?
Hormonal acne can happen at any age?
Hormonal acne involves breakouts tied to fluctuations in your hormones, typically experienced during puberty. However, hormonal breakouts can happen well into adulthood, and it’s most common in women. These breakouts are usually characterized by acne around the cheeks and jawline, blackheads, whiteheads, or cysts, oily skin, inflammation, and sensitivity.
What triggers hormonal acne?
Hormonal acne in women is most commonly triggered by:
Hormonal changes during pre-menstruation:
Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone before menstruation can lead to increased oil production and clogged pores, resulting in breakouts.
Poor diet:
Consuming high-glycemic foods and dairy products can spike insulin levels, promoting inflammation and oil production.
Sleep deprivation:
Lack of sleep can disrupt hormone levels and increase stress, both of which can exacerbate acne.
Makeup use:
Heavy or pore-clogging makeup can block pores, leading to acne. It’s crucial to use non-comedogenic products and remove makeup thoroughly before bed.
Stress:
Elevated stress levels can increase cortisol production, which in turn can trigger oil production and inflammatory responses in the skin.
How to manage hormonal acne
Managing hormonal acne involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, skincare routines, and sometimes medical treatments. Here are some effective strategies:
1 Maintain a balanced diet
Low-glycemic foods: Opt for foods that do not spike blood sugar levels, such as whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Reduce dairy intake: Some studies suggest that reducing dairy consumption can help minimize acne breakouts.
Anti-inflammatory foods: Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish and flaxseed, which can help reduce inflammation.
2 Adopt a consistent skincare routine
Gentle cleansing: Use a mild, noncomedogenic cleanser to avoid irritating the skin.
Exfoliation: Regular but gentle exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.
Oil-free moisturizers: Keep your skin hydrated with non-comedogenic moisturizers that won’t clog pores.
Sun protection: Apply a broadspectrum sunscreen daily to protect your skin from UV damage, which can worsen acne.
3 Manage stress levels
Relaxation techniques: Practice yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises to reduce stress.
Adequate sleep: Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help regulate hormones and support skin health.
4 Use targeted treatments
Topical retinoids: These can help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
Benzoyl peroxide: This can kill acnecausing bacteria and reduce oil production.
Salicylic acid: This helps exfoliate the skin and keep pores clear.
Hormonal treatments: Birth control pills or anti-androgen medications can help regulate hormones and reduce acne.
5 Consult a dermatologist
If over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes are not effective, it may be time to seek professional help. A dermatologist can provide prescription medications, hormone therapy, or other treatments tailored to your specific needs.