Keys Soulcare’s expert dermatologist on how hormones affect your skin— and what you can do about it.
– KEYS SOULCARE
Hormones are the chemical communicators found throughout our bodies that control many bodily processes, including our sexual and reproductive health, moods, and our sleep cycles. But, did you know they can influence our skin, too?
Today, we’re calling on our in-house skincare specialist Dr. Renée Snyder to answer your questions about that complicated skim-soul relationship and what you can do to break free from your next hormonal breakout.
What is hormonal acne?
Hormonal acne can be seen in adolescents and teenagers going through puberty and is also known as adult acne. Acne causes bumps in the form of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads as well as cysts on your face, shoulders, chest, ,and back. Anyone can be impacted by hormonal acne, which is caused by an overproduction of sebum or oil. Acne is the most common skin condition in the US and it affects nearly 80 percent of the population during their lifetime.
Why do we break out during our menstrual cycles?
Changes in hormone levels that affect ovulation can cause breakouts during our menstrual cycle.
Can pregnancy change our skin?
Yes. With the increased production of hormones during pregnancy, many people can experience changes in their skin, including breakouts, dryness, and discoloration.
What else can affect our skin due to hormones?
People with a family history of acne have a genetic predisposition. Side effects of some medications [such as oral steroids] can cause acne. Pre-existing medical conditions, including metabolic conditions or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can be associated with acne. Hormone therapy—including testosterone treatments and stopping or starting birth control—can cause a flare of cystic acne that is predominantly on the lower jawline, chest, and upper back area. Even menopause can impact your skin because of hormonal changes.
What should we avoid when dealing with hormonal breakouts?
Stress, pollution, high humidity, squeezing or picking at lesions, and a poor diet all make a breakout worse. Poor diet specifically refers to refined carbohydrates and sugars or items that have a high glycemic index.
How can we better care for our skin when we do have these hormonal flareups?
Being on a consistent regimen that involves a topical retinoid or a topical anti-inflammatory such as niacinamide, and a topical antibiotic is helpful. The most important thing is to have a physician address the cause of the hormonal acne, whether it’s irregular ovulation, menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), medications, or other medical conditions. If there is a cause that can be “fixed,” you won’t have [further] breakouts.
What’s your go-to ritual for self-care when dealing with hormonal breakouts? Share your soul-soothing tips in the comments!
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