It is said that some things get better with age. This is often true of one's complexion since, as you age, your glands are producing less oil. However, this age-old axiom is at odds with the experiences of countless females — both young and old — who still develop pimples. For females, acne is often a harbinger of life's great transitions. Puberty is a time when many girls suffer the embarrassment of acne as they make the transition to womanhood. While acne fades for some women, it typically makes a comeback during pregnancy. And, later, when menopause approaches, acne often makes another dramatic appearance in a female's life.
As women approach these great life changes, the surge of hormones associated with them can lead to corresponding surges of hormonal acne.
From Maiden to Mother to Matriarch — A Common Thread
"Hormonally influenced acne can strike teens as well as mature women," says Dr. Amy B. Lewis, M.D., a New York City-based dermatologist in private practice. There is one basic, common factor at play when it comes to hormonal acne, she adds. "Whether young or old, hormonal acne occurs during a time when a female's hormones are in a state of flux."
Puberty and Acne
"During the onset of puberty, for instance, hormone surges can stimulate the sebaceous glands which, not surprisingly, leads to breakouts," says Dr. Lewis. "This is one of the reasons why oily skin and acne are so common for teenagers," Dr. Lewis adds.
Entering Adulthood
Adult women can be unpleasantly surprised to find that acne reappears in their 20s and 30s. This, too, is often hormone-related, according to Lewis. "Many times, women experience persistent breakouts just prior to their period," she says. "During a normal menstrual cycle, estrogen levels usually spike right before a woman's period, paving the way for hormonal acne." Sometimes, something as simple as regulating a woman's cycle with a low dose birth control pill can stabilize and even prevent hormone-related acne.
Hormonal Acne and Pregnancy
Pregnant women are typically influenced by wild hormonal fluctuations. One of the symptoms is hormone-related acne. "Interestingly enough," says Lewis, "during pregnancy, a woman's hormones are all over the place. Some women will get very bad acne around this time while others who have had acne their whole lives, will suddenly clear up."
If You're Perimenopausal…
It is not uncommon for some women to experience hormonal acne before and during menopause. "Usually, a woman's hormones are irregular during this stage of her life," says Dr. Lewis. "The irregularity stresses the body, which can lead to acne breakouts," she adds.
What Does Hormonal Acne Look Like?
Acne that is triggered by hormonal fluctuations may look red and raised and feel like hard bumps under the skin. "Hormonal acne tends to be more inflammatory rather than comedonal (whiteheads and blackheads)," according to Dr. Lewis. "Often, hormonal acne can be cystic," she adds.
This type of acne has a predilection for the chin, mouth, jawline and neck.
Treatment for Hormonal Acne
According to Dr. Lewis, a "wait-and-see" attitude toward hormonal acne is particularly ineffective. "All too often, women think they'll just grow out of this acne — like it's a phase. Unfortunately, hormonal acne has a tendency to become cystic, which means that it can scar. But there are many options for someone who suffers from hormonal acne, and the best line of defense is to first schedule a visit with a dermatologist who can determine the best treatment plan."
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