What Is Hormonal Acne and How Can I Get Rid of It?

We all get acne now and then. Sometimes, it results from using harmful products, lack of a proper skincare routine, and in some instances, caused by hormones. Today we are going to discuss hormonal acne. It sounds just like its name; acne is caused by fluctuations in your hormones. Hormonal acne isn’t just a problem during puberty; it can occur at any age. It is more common in women than men. Several factors are responsible for it, menstruation and menopause being the top ones. Nearly 50% of women between the ages of 20-29 have acne. The number reduces to 25% in women aged 40-49.

Expert opinions vary pretty drastically when it comes to hormonal acne. As per Mayo Clinic, hormones aren’t the primary factor in adult acne. However, hormonal imbalances can cause acne in adults dealing with underlying medical conditions. In some cases, adults dealing with acne don’t have any measurable hormone imbalances. This makes the diagnosis of hormonal acne even more complicated and challenging.

Characteristics of Hormonal Acne

During puberty, hormonal acne appears on your T-zone and covers your nose, chin, and forehead area. For adults, acne typically impacts the lower part of the face, the bottom of the cheeks, and the jawline. In some individuals, hormonal acne can also appear as blackheads, tiny pimples, whiteheads, and cysts. Cysts are formed deep under the skin and don’t come to the skin surface for extended durations. They are very sore and painful. Hormonal acne can be caused by the following:

• Menopause;
• Menstruation;
• Increased androgen levels;
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome.

These hormone fluctuations are responsible for overall skin inflammation, increased sebum production in pores, clogged skin cells in follicles, and increased production of Propionibacterium acnes; all of them lead to a spotty face.

Treatments for Hormonal Acne

Typically, hormonal acne is treated with a combination of skincare and medications. In extreme cases, OTC products aren’t very effective. This is because hormonal acne consists of cysts found beneath the skin instead of on the surface. Oral medications balance out your hormones internally and clear up your skin. Standard treatment options include:

Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives used for the treatment of hormonal acne contain ethinylestradiol along with one of the following: drospirenone, norgestimate, and norethindrone. A combination of these ingredients directs the hormones leading to acne. The treatment can be highly beneficial to treat peak hormonal imbalance, primarily during ovulation. They are not a suitable option for people who have a history of blood clots, deal with high blood pressure, or have a history of breast cancer. They are also not recommended for people who smoke.

Anti-Androgen Drugs

Anti-androgen drugs essentially decrease the male hormone androgen. This hormone is found in both men and women. These drugs are primarily used to treat high blood pressure and help stabilize your hormonal levels. Too much androgen can lead to acne problems by interfering with hair follicles and increasing oil production in the skin.

Retinoids

In case of hormonal acne, talk to your doctor about a prescription-strength formulation, as it will help keep your skin clear. If you are dealing with mild acne, the dermatologist might recommend topical retinoids. Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and are available in the form of creams, gels, lotions, and prescription products. While using a retinoid, be very diligent about applying sunscreen daily.

Quintessential Skincare Routines and Products

The importance of a good skincare regimen cannot be undermined whether you are dealing with hormonal acne or any other skin issue. Let me suggest you a few products that will prove to be very beneficial for anyone struggling with acne:

Lotion P50V 1970

It is crucial to keep your skin’s pH balanced if you deal with acne. My personal favorite product is Lotion P50V 1970, It acts both as an exfoliator and hydrator. Most people cleanse their skin regularly but forget to use toner. You can apply it on a cotton ball and use it all over your face and neck. Follow it up with a few drops of Complexe Iribiol Serum. Focus only on the areas that break out.

Creme Dermopurifante

Use a purifying cream at night to minimize redness and regulate oil production. This prevents your skin from over-drying, causing further irritation. Creme Dermopurifante is one of my personal favorites for people dealing with acne. 

Masque Vivant + Masque VIP O2 Multimasking

The importance of a good, purifying mask cannot be denied. I would recommend Masque Vivant and Masque VIP O2 multimasking along with a pinch of baking soda to purify and brighten your skin at the same time. Make sure to use a moisturizer afterward.

Pumpkin Peel

Pumpkin Peel by Protective Nourishment is a great acne spot treatment. Put it on the blemish and leave it overnight. It will pull the impurities from your skin and make it clear within a couple of uses.

Nourish Your Skin From the Inside Out

You have heard it before, and you will hear it again, “you are what you eat.” Try eating a balanced diet loaded with seasonal fruits and vegetables, and don’t forget to gulp a lot of water. Include healthy fats, nuts, and proteins in your diet as well.  Including anti-inflammatory foods such as coconut oil, avocado, gee, dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, Brazilian nuts, and carrots will help balance your hormones.

Healthy Skin Doesn’t Happen Overnight, It’s a Journey

My final advice to you is:’‘Be very, very patient with your skin. You can’t fix it overnight. It is essential to visit a dermatologist for hormonal acne and get the required tests done. It is often a combination of a healthy diet, medication, and the right skincare products. Hang in there; you will get clear skin. We hope you found this article helpful! If any more questions regarding hormonal acne pop up in your head, feel free to reach out to us in the comments section below.