How to treat hormonal acne is something that many women struggle to deal with. It is a dermatological disorder that occurs periodically due to women’s fluctuating hormones. It, however, can be cured easily if treated correctly. It is possible to successfully manage breakouts without turning to harsh medication and being aware of their causes, symptoms, and natural treatment choices.
Hormonal Acne Causes
Changes in hormone levels, especially a hormone called androgens, can cause clogged pores and increased sebum production. This in turn is the cause of hormonal acne. Primary acne triggers include:
Increased androgen levels: Acne can result from androgens, such as testosterone (a male hormone that is also found in women in smaller amounts) causing the sebaceous glands to produce too much oil.
Periods: Women experience fluctuations in acne and hormones around their period due to the shift in estrogen and progesterone levels.
Stress and cortisol levels: Increased stress leads to greater production of cortisol, thus triggering hormonal breakouts
Diet and insulin resistance: High-sugar and processed food diets have the ability to increase insulin levels, which can raise androgen activity and cause more acne.
Hormonal disorders: A common hormonal disorder called Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, also known as PCOS, can also result in higher androgen levels, which might make acne worse.
Symptoms
Hormonal acne forms in patterns and is present mainly on the jawline, chest, or back in the form of bumps, pimples, and overall dullness on the skin. Some forms of acne include:
Cystic acne and deep pimples: Inflammatory, painful spots underneath the skin that are frequently unresponsive to standard cosmetic treatments.
Breakouts: Acne around the jaw and chin is often a sign of hormonal imbalance.
Flare-ups: Periodic and recurring flare-ups that occur consistently around menstrual cycles are also indications of hormonal changes and acne.
Excess oiliness: Clogged pores and oily skin are a result of overactive glands that produce sebum.
How to Treat Hormonal Acne
Even though doctors commonly recommend medical treatments like oral contraceptives and anti-androgen drugs such as spironolactone, many women look for natural remedies for acne and ways to cure it that won't have any side effects. Here are a few hormonal acne treatment methods:
Diet adjustments
Reduced amount of processed food and sugars: High glycaemic foods can lead to a raised insulin level, which in turn increases androgen levels and sebum production.
Anti-inflammatory foods: Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as walnuts, flaxseeds, and salmon in a regular diet is essential. This is because they contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are a specific acne treatment known to reduce inflammation.
Fibre intake: An increased intake of fibre helps in regulating blood sugar, aids in balancing hormones, and reduces acne triggers.
Dairy: A higher intake of dairy is correlated to a higher amount of acne. Thus, reducing the consumption of dairy may assist in reducing acne. However, the relationship between acne and dairy is not accepted universally, and responses can vary from person to person. Some people may notice improvements in their skin when reducing dairy, while others may not experience any noticeable change.
Natural remedies for acne
Spearmint tea: By lowering androgen levels, spearmint tea can lower the amount of acne.
Lemon water: Lemon is a natural astringent and antiseptic; thus, it can help in treating acne. This means that it could help kill bacteria, dry out pimples, and tighten pores. Lemons are also an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for skin to become healthy and clear of dark spots.
Aloe vera: Helps prevent redness and inflammation while also soothing the skin.
Honey and cinnamon mask: Contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in preventing breakouts.
Turmeric: Includes curcumin, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Skincare routine
Cleanser: Use a gentle cleanser at the end and start of the day to keep the skin clear. Avoid the use of harsh soaps since they strip the skin of natural oils, leading to increased production of sebum.
Exfoliation: Use a delicate exfoliator that contains salicylic acid to clear clogged pores.
Moisturiser: Use non-comedogenic moisturisers, a product that has components that won't clog or restrict the skin's pores, to ensure that the skin is hydrated. This helps in preventing excess oil production.
Oils: Castor oil, tea tree oil, and witch hazel oil all have antibacterial properties and aid in reducing acne inflammation.
Apple cider vinegar toner: Helps lessen breakouts and manage the skin's pH levels. Although it is good for controlling acne, it is a little harsh. Thus, it is recommended to mix it with water before applying.
Lifestyle
Stress: Managing stress is very crucial since high cortisol levels can trigger breakouts. Stress can be managed by doing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, and can help reduce stress.
Sleep: Having plenty of sleep is vital since sleep deprivation not only worsens acne but also affects overall hormone regulation.
Exercise: Exercise improves circulation in the skin, its health, and hormone balance.
Hormonal acne is a difficult but treatable disorder. Women can get cleaner skin without taking medicine and by understanding the relationship between acne and hormones, adjusting lifestyle choices, and starting natural acne treatments. Over time, the condition of the skin can be significantly improved through developing an appropriate hormonal acne treatment tailored to specific skin types, reducing stress, skincare practices, and changes in diet. Though using these treatments is helpful, there won't be a noticeable difference without consistency in the skincare routine and lifestyle changes.
Sources:
Comments