Acne Before Period: 8 Ways to Prevent
Kurt Walker
Pimples tend to camp out on our skin when we least expected. Before their periods, most women usually experience a stubborn type of acne. According to the Center of Dermatology and Laser Surgery, all this is caused by hormones.
Around fourteen days before menstruation, the body increases the progesterone and estrogen levels to make the uterus ready for pregnancy. At the same time, the uterine lining produces prostaglandins that cause the uterus to contract and relax. When these hormones increase, breakouts are likely to happen because they stimulate oil glands in the skin to produce sebum. When it gets mixed with bacteria and dead skin cells, the pores can get clogged. And this leads to serious breakouts. Also, the skin is usually more sensitive before menstruation.
Since most of these mechanisms are not in our control, it can be difficult to prevent period acne permanently. However, there are certain things that you can do to minimize the effects of these hormones on your skin. In this article, we are going to share with you eight simple ways that you can use to get through that period. Let’s get started!
1. Figure out what you’re dealing with
Before coming up with a solution, you need to know what you’re dealing with. You need to know how to differentiate period acne from a regular outbreak. According to the research paper writing service, one of the best ways to do this is by looking at the timing. Period acne usually flares up one or two weeks before or during your period. It also clears up naturally when the period is ending.
2. Avoid touching your face
Most of us touch our faces without noticing because we are so used to doing it. It can be frustrating to keep your hands away from your face. However, it will prevent dirt and bacteria from getting on your face and causing acne. Before, touching your face, wash your hands thoroughly.
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3. Birth control may help
Studies have found that the pill slows down the production of excess sebum by blocking the increase of estrogen and progesterone which occurs one or two weeks before that time of the month. This can prevent breakouts caused by fluctuations. However, you should keep in mind that every woman is different. The pill may reduce acne for some and not for others.
4. Shower after workout
You need to make plans early enough so that you can shower immediately after working out. The buildup of sweat, oil, and bacteria during your workout can mix with period acne and quickly flare-up. Apart from your face, your back and chest can also be affected. Showering immediately after your workout will not only prevent acne but also enhance your wellbeing.
5. Reduce dairy
As custom papers reports, consuming dairy products can lead to the breakout of acne in some people. This is because most dairy cows are usually treated with artificial hormones that can lead to hormonal imbalances in your body and trigger acne. Growth hormones are also present in milk. And they can lead to hormonal imbalances which can trigger acne. You can try reducing or removing dairy for a couple of weeks to see if the situation will improve. You should avoid consuming specific food groups if they make you feel worse thereafter.
6. Use gentle products
Most skin care products contain harsh ingredients and chemicals that produce similar effects of estrogen in the body. Most products contain sulfates which are harsh chemical cleansers. Sulfates eliminate moisture from the skin.
When our skin lacks moisture, it signals the glands to produce sebum. Since a skin that’s struggling with acne is irritated and inflamed, you should go for gentle products that help your skin retain its moisture. Using gentle skincare products is one of the best ways to prevent period acne.
7. Limit caffeine and alcohol intake
While alcohol and caffeine might not cause acne directly, they can have adverse effects on the body in ways that can lead to the breakout of acne especially if your skin is sensitive. Both alcohol and caffeine can affect how your body responds to stress. When this response is altered, the body will produce several hormones that can affect your skin. Limiting alcohol and caffeine will help you prevent period acne.
8. Maintain blood sugar levels
Imbalances in blood sugar can lead to hormonal imbalances especially high levels of testosterone and androgen levels. This is usually witnessed in those with the polycystic ovarian syndrome. Insulin is a hormone that manages sugar levels in the blood. With imbalances in blood sugar, the hormone tends to have a difficult time keeping up with the body’s demands and this leads to less responsive cells.
Over time, insulin may signal the ovaries to produce testosterone which can lead to the breakout of acne. One of the best ways to prevent acne is by maintaining your blood sugar levels, especially before your period. According to college paper reviews, you can do this by eating consistently during the day and consuming healthy foods.
Conclusion
You don’t have to have an acne breakout before or during your periods. As you’ve seen, there are a lot of simple ways that you can follow to avoid having the same issue every month. It’s also important to consult your doctor for personalized advice in case the problem persists.
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About the authorNannoPad® may not be able to help with your pimples, but it's definitely a must-have for a healthier period. Super thin and absorbent, NannoPad is developed to help with your menstrual discomfort in a holistic and effective way. See reviews here.
Kurt Walker has been working as an editor and a copywriter at assignment help, professional writing services and bestessays.com.au in London for 3 years. He is also a professional content writer and journalist in such topics as inspiration, productivity, education, and technologies.
NOTE: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Nannocare. Nannocare is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with the author of this article, or any of its subsidiaries or its affiliates.