Many of your ladies suffer from period acne during your period days. Let go of any worries as we have some solutions for you to treat this type of acne during your period. Period acne is primarily hormonal breakout and is different from regular acne. When you have an acne flare-up just before or during your period, that is period acne.
Throughout your menstrual cycle, your hormonal levels are fluctuating. Your estrogen and progesterone levels drop just before your period starts. During this period, your sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum. The excessive oil can clog your pores and result in breakouts. In Edition 1 of this blog, you will find a few ways to treat hormonal acne during your period:
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How to soothe painful acne?
You might have some deep pimples that are painful that breakout during your period. To soothe the painful breakout, try these tips:
- Wet a cotton towel in warm water and compress the area for 10 to 15 minutes, three or four times a day to soothe the pain.
- To relieve pain and inflammation, try a cold compress for 2-5 minutes
- Dab a bit of tea-tree essential oil on the area to kill bacteria.
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How to heal an active breakout?
Here are some ways to accelerate the healing process of period acne:
- Wash your face everyday at least once with a gentle cleanser. Try natural deep pore cleansers with aloe vera that soothes the skin.
- Avoid using a face scrub which might irritate the skin.
- Use an OTC benzoyl peroxide gel to apply topically on the acne.
- Use a tea tree sheet mask to soothe your skin. Tea tree has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Try out these effective ways to heal your period acne. For more insight on period acne and to prepare for your next menstrual cycle, check out Edition 2.
FAQ’s
2. How can I soothe painful period acne?
To alleviate pain from deep, cystic pimples:
Apply a warm compress using a cotton towel for 10–15 minutes, 3–4 times daily.
Use a cold compress for 2–5 minutes to reduce inflammation.
Dab tea tree essential oil on the affected area to harness its antibacterial properties.
3. What skincare routine helps with period acne?
A gentle skincare routine can aid in managing period acne:
Cleanse your face daily with a mild, natural deep pore cleanser containing aloe vera.
Avoid abrasive face scrubs that may irritate the skin.
Topically apply over-the-counter (OTC) benzoyl peroxide gel to active breakouts.
Use a tea tree sheet mask to soothe the skin and benefit from its antibacterial properties.
4. Are there dietary changes to prevent period acne?
Yes, diet plays a significant role in skin health.
Avoid high-glycemic foods like sugary snacks and refined grains, which can increase inflammation and trigger acne.
Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains to support skin health.
Include healthy fats from sources like fish and eggs to maintain hormonal balance.
5. Can stress contribute to period acne?
Yes, stress can exacerbate period acne. High stress levels increase the production of cortisol, a hormone that can stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This excess oil can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, adequate sleep, and regular exercise can help mitigate its impact on skin health.
6. Is it safe to use makeup during period acne?
Using makeup during period acne is possible, but it's essential to choose non-comedogenic products that won't clog pores. Opt for mineral-based foundations and ensure thorough removal at the end of the day. Avoid heavy layers of makeup, as they can exacerbate breakouts. Always cleanse your face before applying makeup and after removal to maintain skin health.
7. How can I prevent period acne before it starts?
Preventing period acne involves proactive skincare and lifestyle choices:
Maintain a consistent skincare routine with gentle cleansing and moisturizing.
Incorporate products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to prevent pore blockages.
Follow a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and low in processed sugars.
Manage stress through mindfulness practices and regular physical activity.
8. When should I consult a dermatologist for period acne?
Consult a dermatologist if:
Acne persists beyond the menstrual cycle.
Breakouts are severe or cystic.
Over-the-counter treatments are ineffective.
Acne leads to scarring or significant skin irritation.
A dermatologist can provide personalized treatment options, including prescription medications or professional skincare treatments.
9. Can hormonal contraceptives help with period acne?
Hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, can regulate hormonal fluctuations that contribute to period acne. By stabilizing hormone levels, these contraceptives can reduce the frequency and severity of breakouts. Consult a healthcare provider to discuss suitable options and determine if hormonal contraceptives are appropriate for your skin and health needs.
10. Are there natural remedies for period acne?
Natural remedies can complement traditional treatments for period acne:
Apply diluted tea tree oil to affected areas for its antibacterial properties.
Use aloe vera gel to soothe and reduce inflammation.
Incorporate green tea into your diet or skincare routine for its antioxidant benefits.
Always perform a patch test before using new natural products to ensure no allergic reactions occur.