If you’re dealing with persistent breakouts and feel like you’ve tried everything, you’re not alone. Hormonal acne cannot only be particularly stubborn.
It is also often resistant to common treatments as it is influenced by internal factors like hormonal fluctuations. It can be incredibly frustrating. See treatment options that work for different types of acne on this page: https://ozheanzoey.com/acne-treatment-singapore/
Hormonal acne is different from other types of acne because it’s primarily driven by hormonal changes. These fluctuations can lead to breakouts that are often deeper, more painful, and longer-lasting.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a teenager experiencing puberty or an adult facing hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause. To manage hormonal acne effectively, you will need a specialized approach.
In this guide, we’ll show you what causes hormonal acne. We will also show you most effective options for hormonal acne treatment in Singapore, and how to prevent future breakouts.
What is Hormonal Acne?
There are many types of acne but hormonal acne is the most common one, affecting 25 percent of women in their 40s and a whopping 50 percent of women in their 20s. While hormonal acne can affect anyone irrespective of age and gender, women tend to get it more compared to men during menstruation, puberty, menopause and pregnancy. Up to 85 percent of women say that their acne worsens before menstruation.
So, what is hormonal acne? Just as it sounds, hormonal acne is a type of acne that occurs when there’s a fluctuation in your hormones. Unlike other forms of acne that might be caused by bacteria or clogged pores, hormonal acne is deeply linked to the body’s internal processes.
It’s characterized by painful, cystic lesions that usually appear on the lower face, jawline, and neck.
What is Hormonal Acne caused by?
Hormonal acne is primarily caused by hormonal changes that increase oil production in the skin. This excess oil can mix with bacteria on the skin’s pores and lead to acne. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels, play a significant role.
As earlier explained, these changes often occur during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. For instance, progesterone can cause menstrual flare-ups and increase oil production, while androgens like testosterone can trigger acne, especially in women sensitive to these hormones.
Other factors that may contribute to the development of hormonal acne include certain medications like corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy. Genetics also play a role as you might inherit a tendency for hormonal imbalances or a strong inflammatory response to bacteria from your parents. Stress is another contributing factor, as it can raise cortisol levels and in the process lead to increased acne.
How do I know if I have Hormonal Acne?
Considering that hormonal is triggered by changes in hormones, having it can sound a little scary thus the very common question; how do I know if I have hormonal acne? It is simple;
To know if you have hormonal acne, you will need to pay attention to the symptoms that appear on your skin. Hormonal acne is often characterized by specific types of skin lesions. If you notice whiteheads or blackheads that become inflamed into cysts or pustules, it may be a sign of hormonal acne.
Papules are raised, small skin bumps that measure 2–5 mm in diameter. Pustules on the other hand contain pus and are also 2–5 mm wide. Cysts, which are tender fluid-filled pockets under the skin, and nodules, large painful lumps beneath the skin, can also indicate hormonal acne.
Hormonal acne can also make your skin appear bumpy, congested, and dull. These lesions commonly appear on the face, neck, back, shoulders, and chest.
The forehead is especially prone due to higher sebum levels. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s likely you have hormonal acne.
For diagnosis, your skin doctor will pay attention at the pattern of breakouts and consider any accompanying symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles or hair loss. They may also recommend blood tests for checking your hormone levels.
What is the Best Hormonal Treatment for Acne?
There are so many remedies that are popularized as treatments for hormonal acne. For the best treatment outcomes and to minimize risks of complications, you may want to ask your doctor; what is the best hormonal treatment for acne?
The best hormonal treatments for acne are oral contraceptive pills and spironolactone. These medications must be prescribed by a doctor and are taken daily. Hormonal therapy works by acting on hormones that can cause acne. Oral contraceptive pills, commonly known as “the pill,” are effective in treating blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and acne nodules and cysts.
The FDA has given the green light to some oral contraceptives for acne treatment. They are generally considered safe for women but some women may not be good candidates.
That means that before trying an oral contraceptive for hormonal acne treatment in Singapore, it’s essential to consult a dermatologist.
Spironolactone, originally prescribed for high blood pressure and fluid retention, has been used by dermatologists for many years to treat acne. This is especially true for the deep-seated, tender acne on the lower face, jawline, or neck.
It is not prescribed for men due to side effects like breast development. For women, spironolactone can be highly effective, often prescribed alone or in combination with the pill.
Studies have shown significant improvement in acne for many women taking spironolactone, with some experiencing complete clearing. It’s important to use birth control while on spironolactone to prevent serious birth defects.
Also since it is a diuretic, spironolactone may cause increased urination. Always discuss with your dermatologist to determine the best treatment option for you.
To prevent hormonal acne, your best bet is to maintain a consistent skincare routine. You will want to begin with using a gentle cleanser to get rid of dirt and excess oil.
After that, use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to make your skin stay hydrated. Don’t forget about sunscreen as some acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Look for products formulated with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to keep pores clear. Not to forget, your diet also plays a significant role in managing hormonal acne.
That said, to prevent hormonal acne, you may also want to reduce your intake of dairy, sugar, and refined carbs to balance your hormone levels. Also, incorporate more whole foods into your diet.
The Bottom Line
Managing hormonal acne requires an all-round approach that combines effective treatments, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. As a general rule, always consult with a dermatologist to finding the best treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. A skilled skin or cosmetic doctor can provide professional advice and recommend treatments that will work best for your skin type and condition.
If you’re in Singapore, please visit us at Ozhean Zoey Medical & Aesthetic Clinic for thorough assessment and treatment planning. See details below;
Ozhean Zoey Medical & Aesthetic Clinic – Collagen Clinic: Juvelook | Lenisna | Baby Collagen | Ultherapy Singapore
111 Somerset Rd, #04-10 TripleOne Somerset,
Singapore 238164
