Acne is a skin problem that affects millions of people around the world, and not just teenagers. In adult women , it is common to experience persistent or recurring acne breakouts , often linked to female hormones . If you notice red pimples , microcysts or even blackheads mainly around the jaw and chin, you could be dealing with hormonal acne . But how do you recognize hormonal acne and distinguish its causes and treatments? Here is everything you need to know to identify and treat this particular form of acne.
What is hormonal acne?
Hormonal acne is a form of acne related to the production of hormones such as androgens . These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands , leading to an overproduction of sebum . This excessive sebum production clogs the pores of the skin , creating comedones , papules or pustules .
This form of acne mostly affects women between the ages of 20 and 40 , although it can appear at any time during adulthood . Unlike teenage acne , the lesions are often deeper and more painful, and they tend to be located in the "U" shaped area of the face: jaw, chin and lower cheeks.
How to recognize hormonal acne?
Here are some characteristics that help differentiate hormonal acne from other types of acne:
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Location : Hormonal acne pimples usually appear on the chin, jawline, and sometimes the neck.
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Menstrual cycle : If your acne breakouts coincide with your menstrual cycle , it may be a sign of hormonal imbalance.
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Type of lesions : The lesions are often inflammatory: nodules , papules , painful cysts under the skin.
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Oily skin : Oily skin or marked seborrhea with excess sebum can be an indicator of overstimulation of the sebaceous glands .
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Duration : Unlike a simple acne outbreak , hormonal acne can persist for years without proper treatment.
Causes of hormonal acne
Hormonal acne often results from a fluctuation in sex hormones . Here are the main causes:
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Menstrual cycle : Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone before menstruation often cause acne breakouts .
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Hormonal contraceptives : Some birth control pills can make acne worse or help regulate hormones .
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Pregnancy : Hormonal fluctuations related to pregnancy alter sebum production .
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Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) : This condition is frequently associated with persistent acne breakouts .
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Stress : Stress stimulates the release of cortisol, which can disrupt hormones and lead to an overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria .
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:
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Gentle cleanser : Use a cleansing gel or micellar water to purify the skin without damaging it.
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Exfoliation : An exfoliant with salicylic acid or glycolic acid helps unclog pores and reduce blackheads .
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Hydration : Opt for a non- comedogenic moisturizer to maintain skin balance .
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Local treatments : Active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide , retinoids or essential oils such as tea tree can reduce lesions.
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Sun protection : Use sunscreen to prevent acne scars .
2. Consult a dermatologist
For moderate to severe cases, a dermatologist may prescribe drug treatments such as:
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Oral treatments : The birth control pill , antibiotics or medications such as Roaccutane (isotretinoin) may be considered.
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Topical treatments : Creams containing retinoids , benzoyl peroxide or azelaic acid are effective against inflammatory flare-ups .
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Chemical Peels : Acid -based peels help to deeply exfoliate the skin .
3. Adapt your lifestyle
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Diet : Limit dairy products and high glycemic index foods (sugars, baked goods), which can worsen hormonal acne .
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Stress management : Practice relaxing activities like yoga or meditation to balance hormones .
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Sleep : Get enough sleep to promote skin regeneration.
4. Use natural remedies
Certain plants and essential oils can be very effective:
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Lavender or tea tree essential oil : They have antiseptic and soothing properties.
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Green clay : Ideal for absorbing excess sebum and purifying the skin.
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Aloe vera : Hydrates and calms inflammatory redness .
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Zinc : This dietary supplement is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its regulation of sebum production .
Mistakes to avoid
To avoid making your hormonal acne worse , avoid:
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Aggressive products : Cleansers that are too abrasive can cause excessive dryness and stimulate sebum secretion .
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Too much makeup : Comedogenic foundations clog pores .
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Picking pimples : Popping red pimples or microcysts increases the risk of acne scarring .
When to consult a professional?
If your hormonal acne is severe or resistant to home treatments, it is essential to consult a dermatologist . They will be able to perform a check-up to evaluate your hormones and prescribe an appropriate acne treatment , sometimes in collaboration with a gynecologist.
Conclusion
Hormonal acne , while frustrating, can be treated with a combination of skin care, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medical treatments. By recognizing its signs, such as acne breakouts around the menstrual cycle , painful red spots , or oily skin , you can better target your efforts to restore healthy skin and prevent scarring . A comprehensive approach, combining a skincare routine with the right treatments, is the key to treating hormonal acne effectively.