Why do I Get Acne During Menses?

This seems to happen every month and can't  get rid of it. This is a common complaint from most of the girls  across the world. Well, it's your “Period Acne.” This problem is also related to PMS and medically termed “PMS Acne.” (Premenstrual Syndrome Acne” 

Acne is a very common problem during menses. In simple terms, menses is nothing but periods. Many girls and women face the problem of acne cropping up during their menses. Well, we generally term this as, “zits.” Yes, we all are aware about these 3 -4 days called menses which is considered very normal and healthy for any woman. Then, the question arises, “Why do I Get Acne During Menses?.” To solve this question, we have come up with this article. This is a very common question which keeps ticking in many minds. 

Why do I Get Acne During Menses? 

Acne during menses is also known as “Period Acne.” This is also called “Menstrual Acne.” This flare up or cropping up of acne is very common and coincides with menstruation and periods. 

The major reason behind acne during menses is hormonal changes. This is very normal in each and every person, especially in females. Females are more prone to hormonal changes. They are very sensitive to the slightest of stressful issues. 

Which hormone plays an important role during acne flare up? 

The hormone which are responsible for the acne during menses are as follows- 

Testosterone -This is a male hormone and women make it too. But, women tend to make it in lower levels. Due to hormonal imbalance, the production of testosterone occurs at a faster rate and this may stimulate the oil secreting glands to produce more sebum or oil which causes acne. 

Estrogen- This is a female hormone which rules the pregnancy and gives you the essence of womanhood. Yes, it signifies your beauty, features and your soft spoken voice. Estrogen is a “girl hormone.”The signs of acne breakout may occur before menses when there is a drop of estrogen and spike in the testosterone.  

Progesterone- Progesterone is also a “ female hormone.” This is released by the ovaries. This plays a very important role in premenstrual acne. Progesterone is at its peak during the second half of the menstrual cycle. Some women may suffer from “Progesterone storm.” which may cause a major spike in acne flare up. 

So, these 3 hormones play a major role in controlling the acne during periods. Yes, it is all about a hormonal game which means that during these days of menses, you need to take special care of your skin. Holistic wellness for skin and body is the key to regulating hormones. 

What happens during “Period Acne?” 

“Premenstrual Acne'' is a real phenomenon. Many of the women are already suffering from acne. But, this premenstrual acne is different. If you are already suffering from acne, premenstrual acne worsens the existing acne and causes a major flare up. The PMS acne is typically very different from the normal breakout. It is seen as a red inflamed boils or zits on cheeks, jawline, chin and neck. 

According to research, PMS acne is common in 60 - 80% of women. The chances of PMS acne increases during teens and early 20s and may subside with age. Most of the breakouts are seen a week before menses or periods. This totally coincides with the PMS symptoms of pain and weakness with acne. This is mainly due to an increase in inflammation. 

Which disorders cause “Period Acne”? 

The disorders caused by “Period Acne” are- 

• PMS(Pre- Menstrual Syndrome)
• PCOD(Polycystic Ovarian Disease)
• PCOS(Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)
• Thyroid issues
• Diabetes
• Cystic Acne
• CSS(Chronic Stress Syndrome) 

Period Acne can be difficult to get rid of. Lets not forget the acne scar it leaves, which itself takes 1 month to heal. And by the end of the month, you are ready for next acne to crop up with the upcoming period cycle. These PMS acne flare ups can be very disturbing and may shatter your confidence levels. Taking good care of the skin beforehand with a healthy lifestyle can help you to eliminate the problem of “Period Acne.” slowly, steading and eventually. 

Why do we say “Slowly?” Yes, the entire process is slow and needs time because periods come once a month and the acne flare up needs to be monitored constantly after a month. So, be dedicated to a healthy lifestyle with natural skincare products which will help you get treated for period acne.