Period Acne: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Nothing in this world compares to the satisfaction of popping a pimple (probably not the best of habits), and there’s lots of them to pop when your period is round the corner. If you are one of those whose periods make a grand entrance with bloating, cramps, crankiness and acne in tow, and you have no clue about what’s up… Read on because we’re telling you why do we get pimples during periods and how to get rid of period acne.

What Is Period Acne?

Period acne or period pimples usually show up before your periods or during the same week. It usually clears up or improves when you are through with the period week.

If you are blessed with clear skin all month round you may notice a pimple or two pop up during your periods. If you have acne already, you may notice it getting worse.

How the menstrual cycle influences acne?

“Why do I get pimples before my period?” Your acne before period flares up because of hormones. Those dang hormones! Just before your periods, the level of estrogen and progesterone drop. This triggers the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. Sebum is your skin’s natural hydrator, an excess of which can cause clogged pores and breakouts. Hormones can also increase the production of acne causing bacteria leading to premenstrual acne.

Symptoms of period acne

• Menstrual acne usually shows up on the lower half of your face, like your chin, cheeks, neckline, and jawline.
• They are usually, inflamed, red, bump-like pimples.
• They are usually, inflamed, red, bump-like pimples.They are usually, inflamed, red, bump-like pimples.

Period Acne Treatment: Treating Menstrual Acne

Popping a pimple is almost therapeutic, but what isn’t fun is the inflamed skin, scars and skin trauma it leaves behind. Give these remedies a try and you won’t have to deal with the aftermath of popping a pimple anymore.

1. Birth control pills

Consult your derma to have these prescribed to you. Take contraceptives that have both estrogen and progesterone combined. Birth control pills containing only progesterone can make acne worse.

2. Anti-Androgens Medicines

Anti- androgens medications are used to treat signs of hyperandrogenism including acne and excessive production of sebum from your sebaceous glands.

3. Weight loss

Acne certainly worsens if you have any obesity- related disorders. In obese people, the male hormones, insulin, growth hormone are raised which are all risk factors for acne. If you have been suffering from acne during periods reducing some weight will help.

4. Practice good skin hygiene

How to avoid pimples during periods naturally? Maintain good skin hygiene if you are often dealing with pimples during periods. Make sure you’re washing your face and not taking all the gunk and debris from the day to your bed. Cover your face or wear a mask when you are going out to protect your skin from pollution. Keep changing your pillow cases. Avoid touching your face as much as possible.

5. For menstrual acne that is more severe, see a dermatologist

If you’re suffering from painful cystic acne or acne that doesn’t go away no matter what, see a doctor. A professional will be able to better analyze and help your case.

Home Remedies to Treat Period Acne

Wondering how to get rid of period pimples? Give these home remedies for pimples during periods a try:

1. Tea Tree Oil

Some studies show tea tree oil may be helpful for mild to moderate acne breakouts. This is thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Mix in a few drops in your cleanser and rinse off or use in a face mask.

2. Turmeric

Turmeric has anti-inflammatory qualities and also helps in calming inflamed skin. It is also known to reduce scarring. You can use a few pinches of turmeric powder in a clay mask.

3. Honey

Raw honey helps balance the bacteria on your skin, which makes it a great product to use for acne. Avoid using highly processed honey available in the market today on your skin.

4. Warm Compress

Pores relax and dilate in the presence of warmth. Dip a clean towel in warm water and wring the excess water out. Gently press this onto your skin. This will help release dirt and excess sebum from your pores.

5. Warm Green Tea Bag

The warmth from the tea bag will help bring the gunk and oil to the surface. The tannins present in green tea can also help reduce swelling and inflammation.

Missed period and acne breakout, a rather scary duo. People suffering from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) often have to deal with this. If you are experiencing it too, it’s advisable to make a visit to your gynac.

Dealing with acne is not that simple, be a little patient and give it some time. Also, monitor your stress levels, as it often can make menstrual acne worse. Remember to be kind to yourself during this tough phase :)