Breaking Out Like Crazy? Hormonal Acne Maybe To Blame. A Skincare Expert Gives You The Details

By Sumona Bose Updated May 03, 2019

We simply don’t say it enough. You’re really lucky if you have great skin. You know, with no breakouts or large pores. If you have that kind of skin, first of all, how? And secondly, how? There’s you and then the rest of us. The ones that struggle with acne, random pimples and just completely random breakouts. There are various things that can trigger acne like stress, incorrect skincare products, dairy and so on. And while the odd period pimple on the forehead is nothing more than an eyesore, hormonal acne is an actual problem. Most women in their 20s dream of finally achieving the clear complexion after bumpy teenage years, but the reality is that anyone can suffer from hormonal acne.

We got Dr.Harshna Bijlani, from The AgeLess Clinic is a skin expert and we turned to her to shed some light on the issue of hormonal acne. Here’s what we learnt about this phenomenon that keeps us up at night. Besides, Netflix and Instagram, that is.

So wait, this isn’t a random breakout? Explain what hormonal acne is?

Hormonal acne is unique in the sense that is often caused by an imbalance of the male hormones (like testosterone) and female hormones in the body. This leads to higher sebum production which could cause inflammation and infection of our glands by acne bacteria. It is known as the most difficult type of acne to control, needing a holistic approach to deal with.

So basically is going to be a pain to deal with? Great!

How Do I Know I have Hormonal Acne?

It is easy to identify hormonal acne with a few simple signs and symptoms.

Hormonal acne tends to occur around our chin and jawline.
They pop up cyclically, for example, during and around our menstrual cycle.
Acne caused when we are under stress is also hormonal.
If a woman is suffering from PCOD or PCOS, her chances of having hormonal acne are high.

What Could Be Causing Hormonal Acne, Besides The Hormones?

While fluctuating hormones are the biggest cause of this, there are few other suspects responsible for it.

Any sudden weight gain, especially in polycystic ovarian disorder (PCOD).
Working at a stressful job or being in a difficult environment.
Improper diet, like one rich in dairy and sugar.
Lack of physical activity on a daily basis.
Contraceptives or any other medicines that can affect the hormones.

How To Control Hormonal Acne

There are many ways to treat hormonal acne properly, though it can seem like there’s simply nothing you can do to make it go away. Dr Harshna personally prefers a holistic approach. This means you’ve to eat healthily, cut down on dairy, regulate sleep patterns and minimising stress. Look, no one said it would be easy. If you want something you could use at home, medicated facewashes with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and tea tree oil are easily available. Creams containing benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, etc, can also help out. Superficial clinical treatments like regular facials, peels and cleanups are a good way to control it.

Here’s What Not To Do Though..

Dr Harshna strongly advises women to not pick on acne or burst them at home. This could lead to acne scars, marks etc. You’re going to have to spend a lot more just trying to get rid of those marks.

Have you suffered from hormonal acne? What did you do about it?

Sumona Bose

Beauty