If your skin is acne-prone, your face gets a lot of unwelcome new pimples now and then. You are not alone in this. About 50% of the women get hormonal acne symptoms in their 20s.
Hormonal acne can be frustrating and disheartening, especially when you are attending a wedding and a pimple welcomes you in the morning.
Let’s understand hormonal acne symptoms and causes because this knowledge can help you tackle this common skin issue.
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What is Hormonal Acne?
Hormonal acne, as the name suggests, is a type of acne that occurs due to hormonal fluctuations.
Unlike regular acne, which often occurs in adolescence and is typically associated with excess oil production and clogged pores, hormonal acne affects adults.
It is more prevalent in women due to hormonal imbalances.
What are Hormonal Acne Symptoms?
You can get hormonal acne in different ways. However, some of the common symptoms include:
Painful, Deep-Cystic Acne
Hormonal acne often appears on your face as large, painful, deep-seated cysts beneath the skin’s surface.
If you don’t manage these properly, these cysts may leave behind scars and are hard to treat.
Predominantly Jawline and Chin Breakouts
One of the hallmark signs of hormonal acne is its tendency to concentrate around the jawline, chin, and sometimes the neck.
You can understand from this pattern that your hormones are at play.
Fluctuating Breakouts
You may notice that the hormonal acne tends to flare up each month, coinciding with your period in most cases.
Some women may also experience breakouts during pregnancy or when undergoing hormonal changes such as menopause.
Papules and Pustules
In addition to cysts, hormonal acne may manifest as red, inflamed papules and pustules. The tenderness follows, and touching your face gets painful.
Excessive Oiliness
If you have hormonal acne, you may notice an increase in oil production. This excess oil can lead to clogged pores, more oiliness, and further breakouts.
What Causes Hormonal Acne Symptoms?
Mostly, hormonal acne symptoms appear due to hormonal fluctuations. However, you must understand the specific causes of your acne to treat it effectively.
Here are some of the factors contributing to the development of hormonal acne:
Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormonal acne is most commonly associated with fluctuations in androgens, such as testosterone.
An increase in androgens can lead to an overproduction of oil in the skin, making it more prone to acne.
Menstrual Cycle
Dr. Shumaila Khan, a qualified Dermatologist, says many women experience hormonal acne flare-ups in the days leading up to their menstrual period.
It is due to hormonal shifts that occur during the menstrual cycle.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular menstrual cycles, increased androgens, and hormonal acne.
Stress
Chronic stress can lead to an increased production of the stress hormone cortisol. It may trigger or exacerbate the hormonal imbalance, leading to acne breakouts.
Diet
High-glycemic foods and dairy products can lead to hormonal acne. These foods can cause blood sugar spikes and trigger inflammation, leading to breakouts.
Natural Remedies and Care Tips for Hormonal Acne
You can treat hormonal acne by following a strict and proper care regimen. Here are some of the top home remedies to help you manage and reduce hormonal acne symptoms:
Keep a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet is crucial for overall health, including skin health. Opt for a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Include foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, spinach, and carrots, to help combat inflammation and protect your skin from damage.
Limit the consumption of high-glycemic foods like sugary snacks, white bread, and processed foods. These can cause blood sugar spikes, increased sebum production, and acne.
Consider reducing or eliminating dairy products, as they contain hormones that may exacerbate hormonal acne for some individuals.
Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is essential for maintaining skin health.
Drink at least eight glasses of water daily to keep your skin well-hydrated and support its natural detoxification processes.
Dehydrated skin can become more prone to clogged pores and breakouts, so staying hydrated is a simple but effective step in managing hormonal acne.
Try to Use Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable tool in combating acne.
You can dilute tea tree oil with jojoba or coconut oil. Apply it to affected areas using a cotton swab or pad.
Use tea tree oil sparingly, as it can be potent, and avoid applying it to large areas of the skin.
Apply a Honey and Cinnamon Mask
Honey is known for its antibacterial properties and can help soothe and heal acne-prone skin.
Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.
Mix a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of cinnamon to form a paste. Apply it as a mask to your face, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, and rinse off gently with warm water. Use this mask once or twice a week.
Apply Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can help balance the skin’s pH, which may reduce acne breakouts.
Dilute apple cider vinegar with water in a 1:3 ratio and apply it as a toner using a cotton ball. Allow it to dry before applying moisturizer.
Start with a more diluted solution if you have sensitive skin.
Do Proper Cleansing
Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser twice daily (morning and night) to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your face.
Avoid harsh scrubs or abrasive cleansers, as they irritate the skin and exacerbate acne.
Pat your face dry with a clean towel after cleansing; do not rub, as this can irritate.
Don’t Skip Regular Exfoliation
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and prevents clogged pores. Use a mild exfoliant with gentle, circular motions.
Over-exfoliating can damage the skin’s barrier, so limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances and exacerbate hormonal acne.
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or time in nature.
Prioritize self-care and make time for activities that help you relax and unwind.
Regular Exercise is the Key
Regular physical activity improves blood circulation, which can help deliver nutrients to the skin and remove waste products.
Exercise also reduces stress, which can indirectly benefit hormonal acne.
Get Proper Sleep
Ensure you get 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep is crucial for the body’s natural repair and skin cell turnover.
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to support your body’s circadian rhythms.
Use Non-Comedogenic Products
Choose skincare and makeup products labeled as non-comedogenic, meaning they are less likely to clog pores.
Check ingredient lists for potential acne triggers, such as heavy oils or fragrances, and opt for gentle products.
Consult the Best Dermatologists via Healthwire!
If you experience persistent and severe breakouts, it’s time to consult a dermatologist. A doctor can help you understand the root cause of these hormonal acne symptoms and manage the flare-ups.
Reach out to the best skin specialists in Pakistan via Healthwire.
