The Hormonal Acne Chronicles: Your Skincare Solution

In the ever-evolving tapestry of skincare, there's a chapter that beckons countless individuals - the thrilling battle against hormonal acne! Picture this: a tale packed with nail-biting breakouts, those pesky blemishes determined to cramp your style, and the relentless pursuit of that awe-inspiring, utterly flawless complexion. But hey, hang onto your skincare capes because this chapter also packs the punch of promise – hope, unwavering resilience, and game-changing solutions! So, are you ready to embark on this thrilling journey toward radiant, confident skin? Join us and let's write a story that's bound to change your life!

What is hormonal acne?

Hormonal acne is a type of acne that is primarily triggered or exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations in the body. It is most commonly experienced by teenagers during puberty and women during specific life stages such as menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. However, hormonal acne can affect individuals of any gender and age.

Features

• Location

Hormonal acne tends to appear in certain areas of the face, typically along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks. It can also occur on the back and chest.

• Timing

Hormonal acne often follows a predictable pattern linked to hormonal changes. For example, it may worsen before or during menstruation, during pregnancy, or when there are imbalances in sex hormones such as androgens (e.g., testosterone).

• Types of Lesions

Hormonal acne may consist of inflamed papules, pustules, and sometimes deeper cysts. It can be more painful and stubborn than other forms of acne.

• Hormonal Influences

Hormonal fluctuations can increase the production of sebum (skin oil) and stimulate the enlargement of hair follicles. This creates an environment where the skin's pores can become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to acne breakouts.

How to reduce hormonal acne

Reducing hormonal acne with skincare involves adopting a consistent and gentle skincare routine that targets the specific causes and symptoms of hormonal acne. Keep in mind that while skincare can help manage hormonal acne, it may not be a standalone solution for severe cases. Here are some steps to consider:

• Cleansing

 Use a gentle, sulphate-free cleanser twice a day to remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup without over-drying your skin. As harsh scrubbing or abrasive cleansers can irritate your skin and worsen acne, please avoid using them on the skin.

Try: HARUHARU WONDER Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil (150ml) - £18.99

Try: HEIMISH Matcha Biome Amino Acne Cleansing Foam (150ml) - £14.00

• Exfoliation

Exfoliate your skin 2-3 times a week using a chemical exfoliant containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These ingredients can help unclog pores and remove dead skin cells, reducing the likelihood of breakouts. Be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as it can lead to irritation and increased acne.

Try: GOODAL Green Tangerine Vita C Toner Pad (70 Pads) - £24.00

• Moisturising

Even if you have oily skin, it's essential to use a lightweight and oil-free moisturiser to maintain skin hydration. Dehydrated skin can actually trigger more oil production.

Try: COSRX Oil Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap (100ml) - £25.00

• Acne-Fighting Ingredients

Over-the-counter products with niacinamide, heartleaf, and tea tree oil may help with inflammation associated with acne. Consider topical treatments prescribed by a dermatologist, especially if your hormonal acne is severe.

Try: ANUA Heartleaf 80% Soothing Ampoule (30ml) - £25.00

• Sun Protection

Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from UV damage, which can worsen acne scars and inflammation.

Try: SKIN1004 Centella Air-fit Suncream Plus SPF50+ PA++++ (50ml) - £16.00

• Avoid Irritation

Be gentle with your skin. Avoid harsh scrubs, picking or squeezing pimples, and using abrasive tools. Avoid skincare products with heavy fragrances and irritating ingredients.