We’ve been told that acne only afflicts teenagers and that it magically disappears once we reach adulthood. The irony, however, is that adult women are among the most affected by acne.
Even those who did not have acne as a teenager may suddenly find themselves dealing with it as adults, making it feel like an endless journey. Almost all women will experience acne at some point in their lives, and it tends to affect women more than men. Acne is indeed a chronic skin condition.
Acne typically begins during a person’s adolescence, coinciding with puberty. Acne can be caused by a variety of factors, but for women, hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle are often a significant factor. It has been observed that around 50% of women may develop hormonal acne or acne during period.
Why do we get acne during Period?
Period acne is caused by hormonal fluctuations. Acne outbreaks are a common symptom of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). During this time, estrogen levels are at their lowest, while progesterone levels are on the rise. Progesterone can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. When these glands produce excess oil, it can lead to the accumulation of bacteria, pollutants, dead skin cells, and inflammation in the hair follicles, resulting in the formation of acne.
What stage of periods do you get an acne?
Acne typically occur about a week to 10 days before the period begins, and there’s also a drop in progesterone levels toward the end of the menstrual cycle. This drop leads to an increase in the hormone testosterone, which stimulates further inflammation in the sebaceous glands, causing more oil production and acne just before the period ends.
What types of acne can occur?
Acne can manifest in different types of lesions, and here are some of the common ones:
- Whiteheads (non-inflammatory acne): These form when dead skin cells get trapped in the sebaceous glands, creating white bumps.
- Blackheads: These are also non-inflammatory acne, but they have an open pore on the skin surface and appear as dark spots.
- Papules: These are small, pinkish bumps on the skin that feel tender to the touch.
- Pustules: These are acne with white or yellow pus on the surface, accompanied by red inflammation at the base.
- Nodules: Nodules are similar to cystic acne, though not as deep. They are inflamed bumps that are painful and visible from a distance.
- Cysts: Cysts are usually large, solid acne lesions with deep roots under the skin, and they can be quite painful.
Is acne limited to the face only?
Acne can occur anywhere on the body, including the back, cheeks, shoulders, breasts, buttocks, and even the genital area.
Where do Period acne occur?
Period acne usually occur in the jawline, neck, chin and cheek.
How does the period acne look like?
Most women tend to experience cystic acne around the chin area or jawline. Some may also develop papules or pustules. Hormonal acne can also take the form of blackheads and whiteheads.
Why do Period acne tend to appear on the jawline?
The jawline and chin areas are characterized by a high density of sebaceous (oil) glands. Variations in testosterone levels can trigger inflammation in these sebaceous glands, consequently leading to heightened oil production, which in turn contributes to acne development. Additionally, hormonal breakouts often extend to the sides of the face and the neck.
Who is most likely to develop Period acne?
People with acne-prone skin, those suffering from conditions like PCOD, or those experiencing significant PMS symptoms are more likely to get acne. Genetics can also play a role, with a family history of acne being a potential factor.
What are the other factors that can cause hormonal acne?
Stress and unhealthy diet are known to be the factors that can worsen hormonal acne.
When do period acne go away?
Period acne tends to clear up or improve as your period is over or comes to an end.
How to prevent acne before period naturally?
While there may not be a guaranteed solution to completely eliminate hormonal acne, there are several natural remedies like drinking spearmint tea, exercising and eating foods rich in Omega- 3 or zinc that people can do to reduce the number of acne breakouts or manage their skin to minimize scarring and hyperpigmentation.
When should one consult a doctor for acne?
If you have severe acne, with cysts or other forms that aren’t responding to self-care, and it’s causing you significant mental distress or physical discomfort, it’s advisable to seek medical attention.
Conclusion
It’s important to remember that acne is a common condition that affects many people. Having acne does not mean that one is dirty or less attractive. Some individuals are fortunate not to experience acne, but many others do, and this should be treated normal.
