How to tell if it's hormonal acne?

Acne is a skin problem affecting millions worldwide, not just teenagers. In adult women, it's common to experience acne breakouts that are persistent or recurring, often linked to female hormones. If you notice red pimples, microcysts or even blackheads primarily around your jawline and chin, you might be dealing with hormonal acne. But how do you recognize hormonal acne and distinguish its causes and treatments? Here's everything you need to know to identify and treat this particular form of acne.

What is hormonal acne?

Hormonal acne is a type of acne linked to hormone production, such as androgens. These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to an overproduction of sebum. This excessive sebum production clogs skin pores, creating comedones, papules or even pustules.

This type of acne primarily affects women between 20 and 40 years old, although it can appear at any point in adulthood. Unlike teenage acne, the lesions are often deeper and more painful, and they tend to be located in the "U" zone of the face: jawline, chin, and lower cheeks.

How to recognize hormonal acne?

Here are some characteristics that help differentiate hormonal acne from other types of acne:

  1. Location: Hormonal acne breakouts generally appear on the chin, jawline, and sometimes the neck.

  2. Menstrual Cycle: If your acne breakouts coincide with your menstrual cycle, it could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance.

  3. Type of Lesions: Lesions are often inflammatory: nodules, papules, or painful cysts under the skin.

  4. Oily Skin: Oily skin or noticeable seborrhea with excess sebum can indicate overstimulation of the sebaceous glands.

  5. Duration: Unlike a simple acne breakout, hormonal acne can persist for years without appropriate treatment.

Causes of Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne often results from fluctuations in sex hormones. Here are the main causes:

  • Menstrual Cycle: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone before periods often trigger acne breakouts.

  • Hormonal Contraceptives: Some birth control pills can worsen acne, while others can help regulate hormones.

  • Pregnancy: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy alter sebum production.

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This condition is often associated with persistent acne breakouts.

  • Stress: Stress stimulates the release of cortisol, which can disrupt hormones and lead to the proliferation of bacteria responsible for acne.

Solutions to Combat Hormonal Acne

1. Adopt a Suitable Skincare Routine

A well-chosen skincare routine can make all the difference. Here are the essential steps:

  • Gentle Cleanser: Use a cleansing gel or micellar water to purify the skin without irritating it.

  • Exfoliation: An exfoliant with salicylic acid or glycolic acid helps unclog pores and reduce blackheads.

  • Hydration: Choose a non-comedogenicmoisturizer to maintain skin balance.

  • Topical Treatments: Active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or essential oils such as tea tree oil can reduce lesions.

  • Sun Protection: Use sunscreen to prevent acne scars.

2. Consult a Dermatologist

For moderate to severe cases, a dermatologist can prescribe medical treatments such as:

  • Oral Treatments: Birth control pills, antibiotics, or medications like Roaccutane (isotretinoin) may be considered.

  • Topical Treatments: Creams containing retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or azelaic acid are effective against inflammatory breakouts.

  • Chemical Peels: Peels containing acids help to deeply exfoliate the skin.

3. Adjust Your Lifestyle

  • Diet: Limit dairy products and foods with a high glycemic index (sugars, pastries), which can worsen hormonal acne.

  • Stress Management: Practice relaxing activities like yoga or meditation to balance hormones.

  • Sleep: Get enough sleep to promote skin regeneration.

4. Use Natural Remedies

Some plants and essential oils can be very effective:

  • Lavender or tea tree essential oil: They have antiseptic and soothing properties.

  • Green clay: Ideal for absorbing excess sebum and purifying the skin.

  • Aloe vera: Hydrates and calms inflammatory redness.

  • Zinc: This dietary supplement is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to regulate sebum production.

Mistakes to avoid

To avoid worsening your hormonal acne, avoid:

  • Harsh products: Overly abrasive cleansers can cause excessive dryness and stimulate sebum secretion.

  • Too much makeup: Comedogenic foundations clog pores.

  • Picking at pimples: Squeezing red pimples or microcysts increases the risk of acne scars.

When to consult a professional?

If your hormonal acne is severe or resistant to home treatments, it is essential to consult a dermatologist. They can perform an assessment to evaluate your hormones and prescribe an appropriate acne treatment, sometimes in collaboration with a gynecologist.

Conclusion

Hormonal acne, though frustrating, can be treated with a combination of dermatological care, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medical treatments. By identifying its signs, such as acne flare-ups around the menstrual cycle, painful red pimples, or oily skin, you can better target your efforts to regain healthy skin and avoid scars. A comprehensive approach, combining a skincare routine with appropriate treatments, is key to effectively treating hormonal acne.

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