Fluctuation in hormones results in hormonal acne. It can affect grownups of any age group, although it is usually linked with hormone fluctuations during puberty. Hormonal acne is prevalent in women mainly due to menopause and menstruation.
Let’s find out what causes hormonal acne and how it can be treated.
Hormonal adult acne typically appears on your face’s lower part, which includes the area around your jawline and the bottom of your cheeks. During puberty, hormonal acne usually forms in the T-zone, which provides for your chin, nose, and forehead.
For a few people, hormonal acne can take the form of cysts, small pimples that shape into a head, whiteheads, and blackheads.
Hormonal acne might form due to influxes of hormones from: Increased androgen levels, menopause, polycystic ovarian syndrome, menstruation.
These fluctuations in hormone might worsen acne problems by increasing: Production of bacteria that causes acne, clogged skin cells in hair follicles, oil production in the pores, general skin inflammation.
A few women can get acne during menopause. This happens because of an increase in androgen hormones or a reduction in estrogen levels.
In a large number of cases, you can get rid of menopausal acne with medication. You can also go for natural treatment techniques. Consulting your doctor first is the right way to proceed.
Over-the-counter (OTC) products usually are not effective against hormonal acne unless it is mild. Standard better options are anti-androgen drugs and oral contraceptives.
The ingredients in oral contraceptives target the hormones that can cause acne. Although they are effective during peaks in hormones, they cannot be considered if you have or had breast cancer, high blood pressure, or blood clots.
The role of anti-androgen drugs is to decrease the male hormone androgen. Higher levels of androgen can cause acne issues.
You have an option of using topical retinoids in case you have mild hormonal acne. Although you can find many retinoid lotions, gels, and creams, consult your doctor first. Apply sunscreen daily if you use a topical retinoid since they can cause sunburn.
In a few cases, you can use plant-based treatment options to get rid of hormonal acne naturally. Although natural treatments are not that effective, they usually don’t have side effects. Before going for these options, consult your doctor.
Plant acids that are typically taken from citrus fruits are called alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). AHAs help in removing extra dead skin cells that clog pores. Many creams and OTC masks contain AHAs. These acids like retinoids can increase the sun sensitivity of the skin so that you can use sunscreen.
Using tea tree oil will help to decrease the inflammation that contributes to acne. Skincare products like toners and cleaners contain tea tree oil.
To decrease inflammation in your body, you can also drink green tea.
Do you have acne due to hormonal imbalance, or know someone who has this problem? How do you intend to treat it? Comment down your answers and views on this video, and do share this video so that others can also learn about acne caused by hormonal imbalance.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!