Struggling with stubborn acne that won’t go away?
Hormonal acne, which often appears on the chin, cheeks, and occasionally, the armpits, can feel like an uphill battle—especially for adults. A helpful thing for adults is knowing it can be managed correctly, which can restore your confidence.
This guide offers 7 science-backed hormonal acne skincare tips to help you obtain better control over hormonal acne.
Cleanse Gently to Manage Hormonal Acne
Wash your face twice a day with clean water and wipe off dirt, oil, and makeup. Use a gentle and sulfate-free cleanser that won’t irritate nor strip the skin of its natural oils. Over-cleansing can dry your skin then your skin produces more oil, leading to a more severe case of acne.
Results: A study by the National Institute of Health shows that excessive use of harsh cleansers can damage the skin’s defense barrier. This means irritation and acne can occur more easily.
Use Acne-Fighting Ingredients for Hormonal Acne
- Salicylic Acid is a BHA, which means it is a beta-hydroxy acid. Salicylic acid penetrates the pores and clears them of debris while reducing inflammation.
- Benzoyl peroxide treats acne by killing acne-causing bacteria, unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and preventing future breakouts.
Start with a low concentration, such as 2% for salicylic acid or 2.5% for benzoyl peroxide, and slowly work your way up to reduce the chances of severe irritation.
A study found that benzoyl peroxide can reduce acne lesions by up to 70% in just a few weeks.
Retinoids for Skin Renewal
Retinoids act by speeding up cell turnover while keeping the pores dirt-free. Retinoids are available in both OTC formulations and stronger prescription versions for more severe cases of hormonal acne.
A 2021 Research by NIH says Retinoids also fade post-acne marks, giving a skin texture that improves consistency.
Tip: Retinoids should be used at night with daytime sunscreen, as they increase skin sensitivity to sunlight.
Balance Oil Production with Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers
Even oily or acne-prone skin needs hydration. If the skin does not get its natural moisturizer, it will dry and produce more oil. Seek non-comedogenic moisturizers, which means they will not obstruct the pores. The best ones will contain constant soothing agents like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.
Knowing This:
A study says Niacinamide works as an anti-inflammatory agent and helps to manage sebum production, which makes it an excellent choice for hormonal acne. A 2017 review found that 100 people who applied topical products with 2% niacinamide experienced significant reductions in sebum production after 2–4 weeks.
Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential in any skincare routine, especially when using active ingredients like retinoids or salicylic acid. Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater to prevent irritation and post-acne hyperpigmentation. A 2020 research proves that daily use of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can help prevent skin cancer and premature aging.
Maintain a Hormone-Friendly Diet
The most important point to note is that food plays a very important role in changing hormonal balance. The diet should be made of wholesome nutritious foods with very low high-glycemic-index foods, like white bread, sugary snacks, or soft drinks. These foods cause insulin spikes, which can exacerbate acne.
Research note: A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a low-glycemic diet considerably reduces the severity of acne.
In USA 2,258 patients were placed on a low-glycemic diet so that they could lose weight. This diet also reduced their acne, with 87% of patients saying they had less acne, and 91% saying they needed less acne medication.
Manage Stress Levels
Increased production of cortisol by stress may stimulate or worsen hormonal acne. Engage in stress management practices such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to control the level of stress.
Know When to Seek Professional Help
If your hormonal acne is severe and/or not responding to any OTC treatment, consult a dermatologist. He/she might put you on oral medications that regulate hormones and control breakouts, such as spironolactone and isotretinoin.
Final Thoughts
Hormonal acne requires patience and consistency. A skincare routine that fits your needs, good nutrition, and stress management will help level the acne off and promote healthier skin. Be in tune with the skin’s signals and adjust your routine accordingly. Consistency is the key!