How to Get Rid of Hormonal Acne

Some people experience hormonal acne as part of their monthly menstrual cycle. Hormonal acne can be severe and it often requires treatment from a dermatologist to get better. A dermatologist can prescribe medicines and make recommendations about the best products for your skin. You can also change your cleansing routine, incorporate steam treatments, try herbal remedies, and make lifestyle changes to improve hormonal acne.

Method 1
Method 1 of 5:

Getting Help from a Dermatologist

  1. The best way to clear up your hormonal acne and minimize scarring is to see a dermatologist for help. A dermatologist can prescribe medicine and perform treatments that will help to clear up your acne. You should see a dermatologist if your acne is moderate to severe or if your acne does not clear up after trying home remedies.
  2. If your hormonal acne is mild to moderate, then you may only need to use a topical retinoid treatment. These creams and gels help to remove oil and dirt from pores and prevent future breakouts. Doctors sometimes prescribe an antibiotic along with the retinoid cream or gel to deal with the bacteria that is associated with acne.The dermatologist may also prescribe a product called Dapsone gel or recommend benzoyl peroxide creams, gels, or washes. [1]
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  3. Oral contraceptives can be an effective way to treat hormonal acne, but this option will usually take about three to six months to produce results. [2] Some oral contraceptives are FDA approved for the treatment of hormonal acne and may work better than others. There are some potential side effects involved in taking oral contraceptives as well. Side effects and potential risks include: [3]
    • Dizziness
    • Headaches
    • Weight changes
    • Stomach upset
    • Bloating
    • Nausea
    • Depression
    • Chest pain
    • Increased risk of heart disease (especially in women who smoke)
    • Shortness of breath
    • Lumps in the breast
    • Liver problems
    • Increased risk of certain cancers
    • Deep vein thrombosis
    • Strokes
  4. Women who do not want to take oral contraceptives may be able to take spironolactone instead. This drug alters the hormones, but it does not have as many side effects as oral contraceptives. Spironolactone works by regulating the hormones that produce oil, so it can be quite effective as an acne treatment. [4]
    • Keep in mind that spironolactone is also a diuretic, so it may cause frequent urination. It may also lower your blood pressure.
  5. Isotretinoin is a good choice if your acne does not respond to other types of treatment. It can clear up severe breakouts in just a few months. This drug can cause some serious side effects, so you should only use it as a last resort treatment. For example, women who are pregnant or may become pregnant may not use isotretinoin because it can cause birth defects. Some other potential side effects of this drug include: [5]
    • Inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis
    • Dry skin, mouth, and eyes
    • Liver damage
    • Bony malformations
    • Depression
  6. If you are concerned about the potential side effects of the drugs available to treat acne, then laser or light therapy may be the best option for you. With a treatment called photodynamic therapy, your dermatologist will apply a medicine to your skin and then use a laser or other light to activate it. Another light treatment uses a small vacuum to pull dirt and oil out of your pores as well. [6]
    • Other treatments include the Smoothbeam laser. These do not require medication and may also help with acne scarring.
  7. If your acne isn’t showing any improvement after two or three months, then make an appointment to see a dermatologist. Left untreated, hormonal acne may become more severe and this can lead to permanent scarring.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 5:

Developing a Good Cleansing Routine

  1. To get rid of hormonal acne, you will need to wash your face twice per day, such as in the morning and the evening. You should also wash your face after any periods of heavy sweating. [7] For example, if you go for a run or if you have been doing yard work, then you will want to wash your face again.
  2. Non-comedogenic means that the product will not promote the formation of acne. To make sure that you are getting a non-comedogenic cleanser, you will need to read the label. [8]
  3. Gentle cleansing is the best way to clear up acne, so your fingertips are the best tool to wash your face. Don’t use a washcloth or a sponge as this can irritate the skin and cause even more problems. Work the cleanser into your skin using gentle circular motions. Then, use lukewarm water to rinse away the cleanser when you are done. [9]
    • Do not scrub your face! Scrubbing may cause irritation and, in some rare cases, scarring.
  4. Use a clean cotton towel to dry your skin, but do not rub your face with the towel. Just gently pat your face with the towel until it is dry. Rubbing your face with a towel may cause irritation and redness. [10]
  5. Moisturizing helps prevent damage to your skin and helps keep it soft and flexible. You can check the labels of store-brand moisturizers to make sure that they are non-comedogenic. The term “non-comedogenic” indicates that it will not clog your pores. You can use some natural oils as moisturizers as well if your skin is dry and not oily. Some good choices include: [11]
    • Hemp seed oil
    • Shea butter
    • Sunflower oil
    • Castor oil
    • Calendula oil
    • Argan oil
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Method 3
Method 3 of 5:

Giving Yourself a Steam Treatment

  1. Wash your face and remove all makeup before you start a steam treatment. The treatment will open up your pores and if you have oil or makeup on your skin, then your pores may become even more clogged.
  2. The easiest way to do this treatment is to plug your sink and fill it up with hot water. If the water from your tap is not hot, then you may need to boil some water to use this treatment. Just make sure that you do not put your face over the boiling water. Remove it from the heat first and let it cool down a little bit before using. [12]
  3. Many essential oils have antibacterial and/or antiseptic properties, meaning they can kill bacteria and other microorganisms that infect the skin and cause pimples. Using these oils can help prevent the formation of pimples. Try one of these types of essential oils:
  4. Before using essential oils, it is always a good idea to pre-test a small area of your skin with the oil. Some people are allergic to essential oils and if you do not test the oil first, then you might have a reaction to the steam treatment. The reaction is often a mild rash that may or may not be itchy.
    • To test an essential oil on your skin, place a drop on your wrist and wait for about 10–15 minutes. If there is no irritation, then you should be able to use the oil. If you notice any redness, swelling, or other signs of irritation, then do not use the oil.
  5. After you have added the oils to the water, then cover your head with a towel and place your face over the steaming pot. Make sure to close your eyes and keep your face at least 12 inches away from the water. [17] The steam will open up your pores and help to prevent breakouts, but if you are too close to the steam then the heat may damage your skin.
  6. After 10 minutes have passed, rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry with a cotton towel. Don’t rub your skin, just gently pat it dry. Then, apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
  7. After two weeks, you should notice an improvement in your skin. At this point you can taper down and just do the steam treatment once a day. If you do not notice any improvement or if the treatment irritates your skin, then see a dermatologist.
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Method 4
Method 4 of 5:

Considering Herbal Remedies

  1. Facial masks can help clean, tighten, and heal the skin. To use an herbal mask, spread the mixture over your face and neck and allow the mixture to dry for 15 minutes. Then, rinse off the mask with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry. Follow up the treatment with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. You can make a mask for oily skin by mixing:
    • 1 tablespoon of honey
    • 1 egg white
    • 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
    • ½ teaspoon of an essential oil of your choice (peppermint, spearmint, lavender, calendula, or thyme)
  2. Vitex agnus-castus or chasteberry may help to balance female hormones. It has been shown to be useful in treating Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) as well as Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and it may also help treat hormonal acne. Make sure that you check with your doctor before trying this herbal medicine. [18]
  3. Maca is a root vegetable used in South American native medicine. It has phytoestrogenic activity and may increase progesterone levels. Due to these effects, it may help with hormonal acne. Make sure that you check with your doctor first if you are interested in trying this herbal medicine. [19]
  4. Dong quai or Angelica sinensis is an herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is known as a “female ginseng.” Dong quai is often used during menopause to treat menopausal symptoms. It may promote progesterone secretion and inhibit estrogen secretions. [20] For this reason, it might help to treat hormonal acne. Talk to your doctor first if you are interested in trying dong quai.
  5. Black cohosh or Cimicifuga racemosa is another herb that has been used to balance female hormones during menopause. It has been shown to be effective in reducing menopausal symptoms. [21] Black cohosh has phytoestrogenic effects and may help treat hormonal acne when applied to the skin. Talk to your doctor first if you are interested in trying black cohosh.
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Method 5
Method 5 of 5:

Making Lifestyle Changes

  1. Drinking plenty of water is essential to healthy clear skin. Make sure that you drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day to ensure adequate hydration. You may need to drink more water depending on your activity levels. [22]
  2. Following a diet that incorporates low-glycemic index foods may help to improve your hormonal acne. [23] Try to include plenty of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Avoid foods that contain high amounts of sugar or that have been highly processed, such as white bread, baked goods, and candy. Some other skin healthy nutrients to include in your diet include:
    • Vitamin A
    • Vitamin D
    • Omega 3 Fatty Acids
  3. Not getting enough sleep may also make hormonal acne worse. Try to develop a good sleep routine to ensure that you are getting plenty of rest every night. Make your bedroom an inviting place and do things to wind down in the evening. It is also a good idea to go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning. [24]
  4. Reduce your stress levels . Stress can cause acne breakouts and may even make your hormonal acne worse. [25] Make sure that you are incorporating stress relieving activities into your daily routine. Some good ways to relieve stress include:
    • Getting regular exercise
    • Practicing meditation or deep breathing exercises
    • Taking time for hobbies
    • Spending time with friends
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      Tips

      • Use alcohol-free products only. Alcohol dries, irritates, and damages the skin because it strips off the natural oils.
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      Warnings

      • NEVER pick, pop, squeeze or touch blackheads. This can also cause flare-ups, scarring, and longer healing times.
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      References

      1. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/acne-right-treatment
      2. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/acne-right-treatment?page=2
      3. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0072393/
      4. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/acne-right-treatment?page=3
      5. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/acne-right-treatment?page=3
      6. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/acne-right-treatment?page=4
      7. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/lifestyle?page=2
      8. ↑ https://www.aad.org/dermatology-a-to-z/diseases-and-treatments/a---d/acne/tips
      9. ↑ https://www.aad.org/dermatology-a-to-z/diseases-and-treatments/a---d/acne/tips
      1. ↑ https://www.aad.org/dermatology-a-to-z/diseases-and-treatments/a---d/acne/tips
      2. ↑ https://www.self.com/story/noncomedogenic-skin-care
      3. ↑ https://www.vogue.com/article/facial-steam-best-diy-technique-tips-natural-products
      4. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24054028
      5. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25881620
      6. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22789794
      7. ↑ http://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/19/12/20929
      8. ↑ http://www.medguidance.com/thread/How-To-Steam-Your-Face.html
      9. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-968-Vitex+VITEX+AGNUS-CASTUS.aspx?activeIngredientId=968&activeIngredientName=Vitex+(VITEX+AGNUS-CASTUS)&source=2
      10. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-555-MACA.aspx?activeIngredientId=555&activeIngredientName=MACA&source=2
      11. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-936-DONG+QUAI.aspx?activeIngredientId=936&activeIngredientName=DONG+QUAI&source=2
      12. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-857-BLACK+COHOSH.aspx?activeIngredientId=857&activeIngredientName=BLACK+COHOSH&source=2
      13. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/lifestyle
      14. ↑ http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/mnfr.200700307/abstract
      15. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/lifestyle
      16. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/lifestyle

      About this article

      Article Summary X

      One way you can help get rid of your hormonal acne is by washing your face at least twice a day with a non-comedogenic cleanser. In addition to washing every morning and night, you should also wash after sweating heavily, like after going for a run or doing yard work. Since washcloths and sponges can irritate your skin even more, use your fingertips to cleanse your face instead. With a small amount of cleanser on your fingers, rub your skin in a gentle circular motion and use lukewarm water to rinse it away. After cleansing, pat your skin dry with a clean cotton towel, then moisturize with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. For more tips from our Medical co-author, including how to get rid of your acne using prescription medication, read on!

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Mckenzie Perez

        Aug 15, 2017

        "Thank you for writing this article. I'm going to start the steaming idea and see if it helps me. I definitely ..." more

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