As the name suggests, hormonal acne is associated with the hormones. Although it happens due to hormonal fluctuations caused by puberty, it can affect anyone, including adults of any age, particularly in women.
Interesting, huh? Keep reading to find out more about hormonal acne and how to clear it up.
This article is written with the help of Keeva Organic the Ultimate Source of Acne Treatment
How to Determine a Hormonal Acne
During puberty, this type of acne usually appears in the T-zone of the face, which includes the nose, chin, and forehead. However, there are also chances of it forming on the lower part of the face, from the cheeks to your jawline.
Normally, it takes the form of whiteheads, small pimples, blackheads, and cysts, but the cysts form deep under the skin, so they don’t come to the surface. They only feel like bumps that are soft to the touch.
Hormonal acne is often caused by influxes of hormones caused by:
Menstruation
Menopause
Increased androgen levels
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
When there is an influx of hormones, acne issues may worsen, causing the following:
Skin inflammation
Oil production in the pores
The production of acne-causing bacteria
Clogging of skin cells found in the hair follicles
What About Menopausal Acne?
At the age of 40 to 50, women often experience menopause. At this stage, there is a natural decrease of hormone production, which leads to menstruation.
When a woman undergoes menopause, she is likely to experience acne because there is a drop in her estrogen levels. At the same time, there is an increase in the number of androgen hormones.
To clear up menopausal acne, prescription medication is often recommended. But some women prefer using natural methods. Just to be sure, consult your doctor for the best option suited for you.
Treatments for Hormonal Acne
If your hormonal acne is mild, over-the-counter medications will work, but if it is the other way around, you might need to find other options. That is because hormonal acne often takes the form of cyst-like bumps that form under the skin.
The most common treatment options you have include anti-androgen drugs, natural products, and oral contraceptives.
Oral Contraceptives
These oral contraceptives that are prescribed for acne treatment have ethinylestradiol and one of the following:
Norgestimate
Norethindrome
Drospirenone
Altogether, these ingredients will work against the hormones that trigger acne. Oral contraceptives are especially useful during ovulation.
Anti-Androgen Drugs
This form of treatment works by decreasing the androgen levels in the body. Androgen is both found in men and women. Too much of it may cause acne as they interfere with the hair follicles that regulate the growth of skin cells.
Natural Products
In some cases, natural products are considered the best option. Unlike natural treatments, they have minimal side effects. But note that they aren’t always as effective as you think. The most common natural treatment options available are tea tree oil, green tea, and coconut oil.
Conclusion
Though hormonal acne occurs at an indefinite timeline per person, being proactive can prevent breakouts. But if the problem persists, we recommend you see a dermatologist for a long-term treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Cynthia is the freelance writer, blogger, an author and content marketing specialist at Keeva Organic. When not working probably spending time with her family.