Hormonal acne affects a large number of people, especially women. In fact, up to 85 percent of adult women report a worsening of their acne in the days before menstruation. Finding hormonal acne products that actually work can be a frustrating (and expensive) experience. Keep reading to explore the causes of hormonal acne, different ways to address hormonal acne, and the pros and cons of popular products used to treat hormonal acne.
What Causes Hormonal Acne?
Hormonal acne is primarily triggered by fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly androgens (like testosterone). When the sebaceous glands in the skin become overly sensitive to these hormones, they produce excess oil, leading to clogged pores and the formation of acne. Factors such as menstrual cycles, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), pregnancy, and menopause can contribute to hormonal imbalances—and subsequent hormonal acne breakouts.
How To Treat Hormonal Acne
Topical Acne Treatments
Topical acne treatments, including face washes, creams and lotions, have long been the go-to option for managing acne. However, they often fall short in addressing the root causes of hormonal acne. Even at prescription strength, these treatments typically focus on reducing inflammation, killing acne-causing bacteria, and promoting exfoliation. While they can provide temporary relief, they do not effectively regulate hormone levels or address internal imbalances.
It’s important to understand topical treatments only target the surface of the skin, leaving the underlying hormonal factors unaddressed. This limitation often leads to recurring breakouts and an ongoing battle with hormonal acne. Even worse, some topical treatments may cause skin dryness, irritation, and sensitivity, making the overall acne treatment process frustrating and uncomfortable.
Birth Control
Birth control can be an effective treatment for hormonal acne due to its ability to regulate hormones, especially androgens. Birth control pills contain synthetic hormones like estrogen and progestin, to help restore hormonal balance and thus reduce acne breakouts.
While often effective, it's important to consider potential drawbacks of taking birth control for acne. First, side effects may include nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, headaches, and weight gain. It may take several months for the acne to improve, and in some cases, it may worsen before it gets better.
Additionally, not all types of birth control pills are equally effective for treating acne. You should always talk to your doctor about your specific concerns & health goals before deciding on a prescription medication.
Hormone-Balancing Supplements
A more natural approach than birth control, with far fewer side effects, are plant-based supplements that call on botanicals that have been used medicinally for centuries.
Chasteberry
Scientifically known as Vitex agnus-castus, chasteberry is an herb traditionally used to help balance hormones. It works by acting on the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, which play a crucial role in regulating hormone production. Chasteberry increases the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) while inhibiting the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), leading to a shift in the ratio of estrogen to progesterone. This can help alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, such as hormonal acne breakouts during your period.
Dong Quai
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is an herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to help with PMS. It contains compounds that possess estrogen-like effects and can help regulate hormone levels, thus helping to get rid of hormonal acne before it pops up.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 helps with PMS by assisting in the production of neurotransmitters, like serotonin. It can help alleviate symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, and depression. Additionally, it can help balance hormone levels and reduce excess water retention and breast tenderness (two symptoms commonly associated with PMS).
All-In-One PMS Relief Supplement
FLO PMS Relief Vitamins are formulated with Chasteberry, Dong Quai, Vitamin B6 and Lemon Balm for well-rounded PMS symptom relief. FLO has amassed thousands of reviews from women who have reported easier periods. FLO’s ingredients work together to help regulate & balance hormone levels to provide proactive relief from common menstrual symptoms, especially hormonal acne.
Results may vary, but many FLO customers start experiencing improvements in their hormonal acne within a few weeks of consistent, daily use. It is important to remember that hormonal acne treatment requires patience—your body needs time to restore balance and regulate hormone levels in order to clear hormonal acne.
FLO Can Help Relieve Hormonal Acne
When it comes to targeting hormonal acne, FLO PMS Relief Vitamins can offer superior relief compared to topical acne treatments. By addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalances and providing essential nutrients, these vitamins regulate hormone levels, reduce inflammation, support liver function, and nourish the skin.
Unlike topical treatments, FLO PMS Relief Vitamins provide a comprehensive approach that works internally to clear hormonal acne and prevent future breakouts. If you're looking for the best hormonal acne relief, consider incorporating FLO PMS Relief Vitamins into your routine and say goodbye to the constant frustration caused by cyclical hormonal breakouts.
