What You Need to Know About Period Acne
Period acne—the dreaded monthly skin outbreak that can make even the most confident of us feel insecure. But why does period acne happen, and what can we do to combat it? Let’s take a look at the science behind this common skin issue.
What is Period Acne?
Period acne is essentially just like any other kind of hormonal acne. The main difference is that period-related breakouts tend to appear around the same time each month, usually when a person is ovulating or right before their period starts. This type of acne typically occurs on the chin and jawline, but it can also show up on other areas like your forehead or back.
Why Do We Get It?
Most cases of period acne are due to a combination of hormones and bacteria. During your menstrual cycle, hormones like estrogen and progesterone fluctuate in your body, which can lead to an increase in sebum production—the oil that your skin produces naturally. When too much sebum builds up on the surface of your skin, bacteria increases as well, leading to inflammation and clogged pores. This creates an ideal breeding ground for pimples and other blemishes!
How Can We Treat It?
The good news is that there are several ways you can treat period acne! Start by washing with a gentle cleanser twice daily and using products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help treat existing blemishes; these ingredients will fight off bacteria while also helping reduce inflammation. Additionally, be sure to keep your face moisturized so that your skin doesn’t become overly dry or irritated from topical treatments. Finally, if you’re having severe breakouts during certain times of the month, consider talking to a dermatologist about taking oral medications such as antibiotics or birth control pills (which can help regulate hormone levels).
Period acne can be an incredibly frustrating experience, but with the right knowledge and treatments it doesn’t have to be! By understanding why we get period acne and following some simple skincare tips you can easily manage this common problem in no time at all. Don’t let period acne bring down your confidence - take control over your skin today!
