The human body is a very complex structure and most of it is not under our control. It just takes care of itself on its own without us doing anything about it. Hormones are one such type of thing in our body, as they can completely change what a person was to what he or she has become now. While hormones and hormonal changes are often discussed during the puberty stage of an individual, the case is not necessarily the same. Hormonal acne, just as the name sounds comes with changes or turbulences in the hormone levels, and it is very common in women, at any age and time. Today, we’ll understand more about hormonal acne and how to treat hormonal acne.
What Is Hormonal Acne?
The acne which is linked with the fluctuations of our hormone levels in our body is hormonal acne. Although there are high chances to witness it during puberty, in reality, there is no age linked to hormonal acne. It is very common in women as menstruation and menopause affect hormonal changes a lot. During puberty, it begins to appear on the T-zone which is basically your forehead, nose, and chin. It takes up the form of whiteheads, blackheads, and small pimples and appears on the lower part of the face mainly your cheeks and jawline, in the later parts of one’s life.
Hormonal Treatments For Acne
So one should take the medication to get rid of it or should one make a few changes in their lifestyle only to get the hormones back on track.
Medication For Hormonal Acne
1. Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives have several complex chemical compounds in them which target the hormones that can lead to acne. However, if you’ve had a poor medical history, then you shouldn’t have these as side effects could be seen, or reach out to a doctor before planning to go ahead with it.
2. Anti-Androgen Drugs
These decrease the male hormone androgen which is present in both males and females, but too much of it contributes to acne, and thus, taking the anti-androgen drugs could be beneficial to take care of them.
3. Retinoid
Use of topical retinoid is permitted if you have mild hormonal acne, however, the prescription from your doctor is a must. If you go for this solution, then apply sunscreen daily, as the chances of getting sunburn are increased with the usage of retinoid.
How To Treat Hormonal Acne Naturally
If you’re unwilling to use chemical products, then here are a few natural solutions for you as well:
1. Tea Tree Oil
Another interesting way on how to treat hormonal acne is through the use of tea tree oil, it basically decreases inflammation that contributes to acne. However, it is important to take a skin patch test before using it, for which you need to apply it on a patch of your skin and leave it for 24 hours. If it doesn’t cause any irritation then you can add it to your skincare routine.
2. Alpha Hydroxyl acids
AHAs are plant acids that are mostly derived from citrus fruits. They help in removing excess dead skin cells that clog skin pores, thus minimizing acne or acne scars. There are various skincare products in the market today that carry these acids in them.
3. Green Tea
Green tea is another great way on how to treat hormonal acne. This tea is known to have excellent effects on our bodies and it works great for acne too. In simple words, green tea takes action against toxins in our body and leave us with healthy insides, resulting in healthy skin.
Foods For Hormonal Acne
Foods and beverages which you should consider in how to treat hormonal acne:
- Green vegetables like broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, etc.
- Fruits like oranges, bananas, grapes, pears, etc.
- Whole grains and starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes, oats, brown rice, etc.
- Healthy fats like whole eggs, nuts, seeds, etc.
- Plant-based dairy products like almond milk, coconut milk, coconut milk, etc.
- High-quality proteins like tofu, turkey, salmon, chicken, etc.
- Legumes like lentils, black beans, chickpeas, etc.
- Unsweetened beverages.
- Anti-inflammatory herbs and spices like turmeric, black pepper, ginger, etc.
Foods To Avoid For Hormonal Acne
Foods and beverages which you should avoid while treating it:
- Dairy products like Milk, Cheese, Yogurt, etc.
- Highly processed food like
- Sweet and sugary beverages like cold drink, energy drink, etc
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So, this was all you need to know about hormonal acne and how to treat hormonal acne. The first and foremost step in treating acne is by consuming a well-balanced diet and opting for a healthier lifestyle in general. Exercising daily is another great way to protect yourself from this hormonal acne. If all else fails, do reach out to a dermatologist and get professional help.