Period acne differs from typical acne that occurs during other weeks of the menstrual cycle. Breakouts of pimples from period acne are usually on the lower half of the face, like your cheeks, chin, jawline, and neck.
Period acne is red, inflamed, raised bumps that rarely develop into pus-filled pimples. They can be very frustrating, but try to resist squeezing or popping them, as this can make them worse and take longer to go away.
But how do you differentiate between period acne breakouts and regular ones?
It’s pretty simple - the easiest way to differentiate the two is to check the timing of the acne breakouts. Period acne is more likely to flare up during the week leading up to your period or during your period. And you’ll notice that your skin clears up as your period ends.
If you already have acne, you might notice that it worsens during your menstrual cycle. On the other hand, if you have clear skin, you might see a pimple or two pop up.
So, why does acne flare up before your period?
Teen hormones fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle, and these hormonal changes are one of the main reasons for period acne. Just before your period, progesterone production falls, and oestrogen (female sex hormones) levels rise. This increases your body’s oil production, and the excess sebum clogs your pores, causing acne breakouts.
HOW TO SOOTHE PERIOD ACNE BREAKOUTS
Period acne can be painful, so here are some things you can do to ease the pain.
- Use a warm compress for 10 to 15 minutes to soothe the pain.
- Use a cold compress for 5 to 10 minutes to reduce swelling.
- Apply turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Apply honey as it has antimicrobial properties that kill acne-causing bacteria.
- Use a warm green tea bag to reduce inflammation.
- Avoid irritating skin care products.
- Protect your skin from friction caused by tight collars, straps, or helmets.
- Limit your exposure to UV rays with a high-SPF sunscreen.
- Wash your face twice a day with a gentle face wash.
- Limit your intake of highly processed foods.
Period acne breakouts and pimples are common among teenagers due to hormonal imbalances. You can treat acne with some simple home remedies. However, if it persists, you should consult a doctor to get the proper treatment and medicine.
At Tikitoro, we make personal care products for teenagers that are made especially for their needs at that age.
Our body-care and hair-care products are paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicon-free, endocrine disruptor-free, and free from all other nasties!
If you’re a teen or have a teen at home, why not try Tikitoro?