Hormonal fluctuations can cause this common skin condition in women.
Understanding Hormonal Acne
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million people each year. While acne is often associated with teenagers, it can also occur in adulthood. Hormonal acne is a type of acne that primarily affects women between the ages of 20 and 50 and can include pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts that appear on the face, shoulders, chest, and back. Approximately half of women in their 20s and a quarter of women in their 40s will have hormonal acne.
Causes
Women experience hormonal fluctuations during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. These changes in hormone levels can increase the production of sebum – an oily substance produced by skin glands. Excess sebum can clog pores and trap dead skin cells and bacteria inside, causing acne, inflammation, and infection. Stress, lack of sleep, and certain skincare or makeup products can also contribute to or worsen hormonal acne.
Treatment and Outlook
There are many treatment options available to help clear up hormonal acne. These include:
- Over-the-counter products, such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids, can be used in combination with a gentle cleanser as part of a daily skincare routine.
- Lifestyle changes can promote healthy skin, including eating a balanced diet, regularly exercising, and getting enough sleep.
- Prescription medications can include topical creams and oral antibiotics.
- Hormonal therapies can help regulate hormone levels and decrease oil production.
Most treatments typically take a few months to take effect. If you are experiencing hormonal acne, a dermatologist can help develop a personalized treatment plan to restore clear skin.
An Expert Weighs In:
“Dealing with hormonal acne can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. If you’re not seeing results with at-home treatments, most people benefit from prescription options. Working with a dermatologist helps you create a regimen tailored to your skin’s needs. Finding the right treatment takes consistency and time, but at Galen Dermatology we’re here to guide you to feel confident and happy in your own skin again.”
Kate Shuster, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, Galen Dermatology
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in advertising. While attending Lee, Rachel served as editor-in-chief and creative director for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society. Since joining CMC Publications as editor, Rachel has assumed the role of managing editor, where she is responsible for the annual development and completion of seventeen publications involving health, wellness, and lifestyles articles that are published in print and online for HealthScope, CityScope, and Choose Chattanooga magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
