Unlocking the Secrets to Managing Hormonal Acne
At this point in our adolescent lives, it is very normal to experience stubborn, hormonal acne. This type of acne is extremely common and often causes painful breakouts along the lower cheeks, jawline and neck. Despite ongoing efforts to reduce the stigma around acne, we here at The Edge understand the struggles that come with having problematic skin, and we’re here to offer some solutions!
Skincare
The first step to improving textured skin is to reassess and update your skincare routine. Many commonly used skincare products contain ingredients that can actually cause build-up and clog pores, worsening acne. One of the most important components of your skincare routine is moisturizer. For acne-prone skin, opting for an oil-free moisturizer is key, as it’s less likely to clog pores and contribute to breakouts. Some excellent options to consider are CeraVe Oil Control and La Roshe Posay Double Repair, both of which are simple, yet effective, oil-free moisturizers. Moisturizing is key; however, before you make any changes to your regimen, it's always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist to get a professional opinion tailored to your skin's needs.
Clean Eating
We here at The Edge understand that hormone imbalances and fluctuations are the primary causes of stubborn hormonal acne. While these hormonal changes can be difficult to control, improving your diet can help reduce the frequency of painful breakouts. Avoiding high-glycemic foods, like soda, candy and white bread, can prevent spikes in blood sugar that contribute to acne. Instead, opt for low-glycemic foods such as fruits, vegetables and steel-cut oats. Additionally, the hormones found in dairy products have been linked to frequent breakouts, so limiting dairy intake may also be beneficial. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, like fish and chia seeds, which are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, can help prevent acne and promote overall skin health. While hormonal acne affects everyone differently, we at The Edge highly recommend adopting clean eating habits to support healthy, glowing skin and a balanced lifestyle!
Medication
We understand that medication isn’t the right choice for everyone, but we believe it’s important to explore all your options when it comes to clearing up your skin. Some common medicinal treatments for acne include medications like Accutane, Spironolactone and birth control pills. If you're hesitant about medications due to negative stories surrounding Accutane, Spironolactone could be a great alternative. This medication works particularly well for hormonal acne as it helps reduce the hormones that trigger excess sebum production, which contributes to breakouts. Another option to consider is Tretinoin, a prescription-strength topical cream that is a more concentrated, powerful version of retinol. Tretinoin is effective for hormonal acne because it promotes skin cell turnover and reduces inflammation, helping to unclog pores and lessen pigmentation. If you’re struggling with hormonal acne, it's worth discussing these options with a dermatologist to see if Spironolactone or another treatment could work for you!
Personal Note
To everyone reading, we at The Edge understand that acne can be draining both physically and mentally. It can affect so many individual’s mental health and their ability to see their true beauty. We want you to know that acne is a completely normal part of life that affects nearly everyone at some point. It’s important to remember that having acne doesn’t define your worth or beauty. Your value is not determined by the appearance of your skin, and you are so much more than what’s on the surface. Everyone’s skin reacts differently to hormones, stress and other factors, and breakouts are just a temporary challenge. Embrace your unique journey and remember that you are deserving of love and confidence, no matter what your skin looks like. Don’t let acne hold you back from feeling good about yourself or living your life to the fullest!