A photo of a lady with hormonal acne

What Is Hormonal Acne?

What is hormonal acne?

Hormonal acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is a type of skin condition that is caused by changes in hormone levels. These pimples are often red, swollen, and can be filled with pus. They may also cause scarring and discolouration of the skin. Hormonal acne can occur in both teenage years and adulthood. It can be aggravated by stress, poor nutrition, and hormonal fluctuations. For example, hormonal acne around the chin area is commonly associated with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). During PMS, hormones such as progesterone and oestrogen fluctuate which can trigger increased sebum production. The combination of extra oil and bacteria causes clogged pores and breakouts around the chin area.
Hormonal acne typically appears differently than other types of acne. Pimples associated with hormonal acne tend to be large in size and will often linger for days or weeks before going away. Additionally, these spots can appear more solid or hard compared to traditional whiteheads or blackheads associated with other types of acne. For this reason, it’s important to distinguish between different types of acne when seeking treatment.

What causes hormonal acne?

Hormonal acne, also known as cystic acne, is caused by an imbalance of hormones in the body. This imbalance often causes the skin to produce too much oil, leading to blocked pores and pimples. The hormones that are most often linked to hormonal acne are testosterone, cortisol, and insulin. Excessive levels of these hormones can cause inflammation in the skin, leading to an increase in sebum production, which can clog the pores and cause pimples to form. In addition to this, hormones can also trigger a process called hyperkeratinization, which occurs when cells become stuck together in the pore and block it. This blockage can result in a bump that looks like a pimple on the surface of the skin.

How to treat hormonal acne?

When dealing with hormonal acne, it's important to get the right treatment to clear up your skin. One of the best ways to reduce the size of a pimple quickly and effectively is to use The VIP microneedle pimple patches. The best spot treatment for hormonal acne is one that has ingredients that can kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Look for ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or sulfur. These ingredients can help reduce swelling and redness as well as kill bacteria that cause breakouts. Additionally, you can use products with retinoids, which are vitamin A derivatives, to help exfoliate your skin and keep pores from becoming clogged. You can also opt for a topical cream containing corticosteroids or antibiotics to help reduce the size of a pimple. Lastly, natural remedies like aloe vera and tea tree oil can be used to help soothe skin and reduce redness associated with hormonal acne.

How to prevent hormonal acne?

The best way to prevent hormonal acne is to manage your hormone levels and keep them balanced. You can do this by avoiding foods that cause a spike in hormones, such as processed foods, sugary snacks, and dairy products. Additionally, you should make sure to get regular exercise, which helps to regulate hormones and reduce stress. Finally, try to keep your skin clean by washing it regularly with a gentle cleanser and using non-comedogenic moisturisers and makeup. By taking these steps, you can help prevent the formation of pimples associated with hormonal acne.

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