Hormonal acne, a prevalent skin condition, is deeply intertwined with the complex interplay ofhormones and skin health. The skin, as the body’s largest organ, often acts as a mirrorreflecting internal changes. Fluctuations in hormone levels can lead to the emergence of acne, acondition characterised by the appearance of blemishes and pustules on the skin’s surface.
Understanding the connection between hormones and skin health is vital for the effectivemanagement and treatment of hormonal acne.
Symptoms of hormonal acne
Site of lesions: Hormonal acne typically manifests as red, inflamed scars, along withwhiteheads, blackheads, and pustules, particularly along the jawline, chin, and cheeks.
Cystic lesions: Deeper, painful cysts may form beneath the skin’s surface, causing tenderness and leaving behind scars.Timing: Breakouts often coincide with the menstrual cycle, with flare-ups more commonduring the premenstrual phase.
Adult-onset acne: Hormonal acne can also affect adults, especially women, during periods of hormonal flux such as pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause.
Causes of hormonal acne
Androgens: Hormones like testosterone stimulate oil glands, leading to increased sebumproduction, which, when combined with dead skin cells, can clog pores and fosterbacterial growth.
Menstrual cycle: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels during the menstrualcycle can trigger acne, especially before menstruation.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS often have higher androgenlevels, leading to more severe acne and other skin issues.
Stress: Elevated stress hormones can contribute to acne by increasing inflammation andoil production.
Medication: Certain medications, like corticosteroids and some birth control methods,can influence hormone levels and lead to acne breakouts.
Treatments for hormonal acne
There are some topical products that can be used to treat hormonal acne.
Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives regulate skin cell turnover, preventing cloggedpores and reducing inflammation.
Benzoyl peroxide: It kills acne-causing bacteria and helps unclog pores.
Salicylic acid: It can help with controlling sebum production.
Some oral medications include:
Birth control pills: Hormonal birth control pills can regulate androgen levels, reducingacne in some cases.
Anti-androgen drugs: Medications like spironolactone can directly block androgen receptors, curbing excess oil production.
Antibiotics: In cases of inflammation, antibiotics may be prescribed to target bacterialgrowth.
Lifestyle adjustments
Diet: A balanced diet low in processed foods and sugars can help manage hormonelevels and reduce inflammation.
Stress management: Techniques such as meditation, exercise, and adequate sleep canlower stress hormone levels.
Skincare routine: Using gentle, non-comedogenic products and avoiding harsh scrubscan minimise irritation and prevent further breakouts.
Procedures
Chemical peels: Mild acids are applied to the skin to exfoliate and unclog pores, improving the skin’s texture.
Laser therapy: Intense light or laser energy targets and destroys acne-causing bacteria,reducing inflammation.
Extraction and aspiration: Dermatologists can safely extract comedones (black andwhiteheads). Fluctuant cystic lesions can be aspirated to alleviate pain and promotefaster healing.
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle modifications also play a pivotal role in managing hormonal acne. A balanced diet, richin antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, supports overall skin health. Regular exercise and stressmanagement techniques can help regulate hormones and minimise acne triggers. Adequatesleep and a consistent skincare routine tailored to one’s skin type are also essential components of acne management.
Managing hormonal acne
Hormonal acne underscores the intricate relationship between hormones and skin health.
Theemergence of acne is often a manifestation of internal changes, with hormone fluctuations playing a pivotal role. Recognising the symptoms, understanding the underlying causes, andemploying appropriate treatments can aid in managing and even preventing hormonal acne.
(The author is adermatologist & cosmetologist.)
(Published 01 October 2023, 00:47 IST)