It’s not easy being a woman. There are certain times in life when we experience so many changes, hormonal, and other disturbances that affect our overall well-being. One such period is definitely menopause.
This is actually a transformative phase in a woman’s life, marked by physical and emotional rollercoasters.
While the cessation of menstrual cycles signifies the end of the reproductive journey, it also introduces a host of alterations in the body, including fluctuations in hormone levels – and yes, this also affects the skin.
One of those (un)expected challenges many women face during menopause is the onset of adult acne.
The emotional impact of developing acne during menopause can be particularly profound, especially for those who have enjoyed clear skin throughout their lives. And this may be quite difficult for a woman…
So, how to deal with it?
What Is Perimenopausal & Menopausal Acne?
So, let’s talk about perimenopausal and menopausal acne – the uninvited guests crashing your midlife party when the hormones are throwing a bit of a bash, doing the cha-cha with fluctuations that can make your skin go: “Oh, wait, what’s happening?”.
Although mild to moderate acne vulgaris represents a “hallmark” of puberty and adolescence, it is being increasingly observed in adult life, too including the menopausal period.
So yes, acne is a disease of adulthood, too. Declining estrogen levels and hormonal imbalance and shifts during (peri)menopause decide to spice things up for you, and voila – acne makes a surprising comeback!
It’s like a recurrence of acne in their mature, sophisticated version1.
The truth is – you will probably dislike the look and seek of a dermatologist – but it also has an emotional impact.
When Does It Start?
Well, it is pretty difficult to say. Many women may begin to see acne in perimenopause, the period leading up to menopause.
And perimenopause may last differently in different women – from a few months to several years2. So yes, menopausal women may experience acne years prior to menopause.
Perimenopause typically kicks off in 40s. It’s during this pre-menopause phase that hormone levels start shimmying, setting the stage for some skincare surprises, as a sign for you to experience menopausal acne (and perimenopausal acne, too).
It is weird, I know, but you may start having acne years leading up to menopause, and/or when you enter menopause. This is pretty individual.
Is Menopausal Acne Normal?
Absolutely, menopause acne is totally normal. In fact, as our hormones do their own little dance during menopause, skin changes are entirely normal.
Besides estrogen shifts, many women experience a rise in androgen levels, both of which can affect your skin cells – and trigger acne (and also make acne worse).
Furthermore, it is a process similar to that in puberty – and, yes, it’s all about the hormones, when your estrogen levels start to drop, and androgens (testosterone) start to rise3.
How Common Is Acne In Menopause?
It’s actually pretty common. Thanks to hormonal changes during menopause, along with other menopause symptoms, acne often decides to hop on board.
Now, the intensity can vary – some of us may get mild acne and just a few blemishes, while others might have a more acne-prone party with inflammatory acne, with acne lesions and cyst formation.
Terrible, I know. But the key thing? You’re not alone in this.
Many fabulous women are navigating the world of menopausal acne, and finding ways to manage and reduce acne. We’ll discuss the menopausal acne treatment later on.
Why Am I Breaking Out During Menopause? – Causes Of Menopausal Acne Breakouts
Several factors can contribute to acne and actually cause acne in menopause. What are those?
Hormonal Shift
First up, blame it on the hormones! During menopause, estrogen takes a bit of a dip, testosterone levels rise up, and hormonal fluctuations become the new norm4.
This shift can trigger our oil glands to go into overdrive, leading to clogged pores and, you guessed, breakouts and this type of hormonal acne (which you will hate).
Interestingly, hormone fluctuations are also the cause of breakouts during ovulation and before period.
Collagen Conundrum
Menopause often brings a decline in collagen production5. Collagen keeps our skin firm and elastic. So, less collagen can mean more sagging and, you guessed it again, potential breakouts.
This is something that happens with aging to, so you will have to get used to it.
Stress Showdown
Menopause can bring its own set of stresses – hot flashes, sleep disturbances, emotional rollercoasters. And yes, stress can be a major player in acne, causing those pesky breakouts to take center stage.
Diet
What we eat can play a role – and cause acne in women in menopause, too. Menopausal changes might mean our skin reacts differently to certain foods, leading to acne.
Does Skin Tone Impacts Menopausal Acne?
Absolutely, your skin tone can indeed have a say in dealing with menopause acne. First of all, different skin tones may react to inflammation in unique ways.
For example, individuals with deeper skin tones might experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where the aftermath of a breakout leaves behind darker spots.
So, dealing with this type of acne is different for different skin tones.
Secondly, skin tone can also influence how our skin reacts to changes in elasticity. While lighter skin tones might showcase redness more prominently, deeper skin tones may reveal changes in pigmentation.
Also, the sensitivity of your skin can vary with different tones. Some might find their skin more reactive, while others may have a more resilient complexion.
What Is The Best Treatment For Menopausal Acne?
And now – the most important part – the treatment plan!
How to treat acne that hops on during menopause?
Although it is pretty difficult to say which treatment is the best, as this is individual, there are several spot treatment options and over-the-counter acne treatments6.
Let’s see what are those:
- Retinoids
Think of retinoids as your skin’s superheroes. Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that work wonders by promoting cell turnover, unclogging pores, and smoothing out fine lines.
They’re like the ultimate multitaskers for menopausal acne – and other skin “symptoms” of menopause.
Well, you know, menopause comes with aging, and aging means fine lines and wrinkles, too. Retinoids help there, too!
- Gentle cleansers
Menopausal skin can be a bit finicky, so you should definitely opt for gentle cleansers that will remove dead skin cells but won’t strip away essential oils.
Look for ones with soothing ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera – your skin will thank you.
- Moisturizers – hydrating heroes
Menopausal skin might be dealing with a moisture conundrum. So, you will most probably experience dry skin.
Lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers will keep your skin hydrated without triggering breakouts. It’s like giving your skin a refreshing drink.
- Exfoliators – dead skin & impurities removal
Incorporate alpha and beta hydroxy acids into your routine. These gentle exfoliants help unclog pores, fade dark spots, and keep your skin looking radiant.
They’re like your secret weapons against stubborn blemishes.
- Hormone therapy
In some cases, when other spot treatments for acne don’t work enough, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) might be a game-changer.
For example, spironolactone, often used to treat high blood pressure, is often referred to as an anti-androgen. In other words, it helps balance out those nasty hormones.
Androgens, like testosterone, can go a bit haywire and kickstart excess oil production, leading to clogged pores and acne.
However, you should definitely consult your healthcare provider to explore this option and see if it aligns with your skincare goals.
How To Treat Menopausal Acne Naturally?
Treating menopausal acne requires a lot of dedication and patience – and the right acne treatment plan.
Sometimes, the best treatment is – natural.
But what are those magical, natural ways to manage menopausal blemishes?
- Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is like nature’s magic for patients with acne. Its antimicrobial properties can help combat acne-causing bacteria.
So, basically, tea tree oil skincare products are like natural antibiotics for acne.
Mix a few drops with a carrier oil (like jojoba), dab it on blemishes, and wash your face – voila!
- Aloe vera
Aloe vera is definitely a skin care superhero. Its anti-inflammatory and healing properties can calm irritated skin. Apply a thin layer of pure aloe vera gel to areas prone to breakouts. Your skin will thank you!
- Green tea elixir
Sip on some green tea for a double boost – internally and externally. Green tea contains antioxidants that may help soothe inflammation.
You can also make your own green tea toner by cooling brewed green tea and applying it to your face – simple as that. It will definitely help (and won’t dry out your skin).
- Honey
Are you surprised? Well, honey isn’t just delicious, it’s also a natural humectant with antibacterial properties – used for acne, makes wonders.
You can apply a small amount of raw honey to troubled spots and let it work its magic for about 15 minutes before rinsing.
- Probiotics
Probiotics, found in fermented foods like yogurt, can contribute to gut health. A healthy and – happy gut often reflects in happy skin. Consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet.
It will help not only with acne but also a plethora of skin changes and conditions.
- Essential oils
Essential oils like lavender and chamomile are known for their soothing properties. Blend a couple of drops with a carrier oil and use it as a facial oil for a relaxing skincare ritual – and this will result in reduction in acne, too.
Tips For Managing Your Menopausal Skin
Ok, let’s craft a short guide to gracefully menopause skin with a set of “DOs” and “DON’Ts”.
DOs:
- Hydration
Do prioritize your skin’s hydration. Drink ample water to keep your skin nourished and radiant from the inside out – and, of course, incorporate moisturizers into your skincare routine (we’ll mention it once again).
- Gentle cleansing
Opt for mild, gentle cleansers in your skincare routine. This helps cleanse your skin without stripping away its natural, essential oils, promoting a healthy balance and healthy skin barrier.
- Sunshield
Incorporate sunscreen into your daily ally, and shield your skin from UV rays with a high broad-spectrum SPF. Reapply it throughout the day for continuous protection.
- Retinoids
Consider incorporating retinoids into your skincare regimen, as explained previously.
These skin superheroes help combat fine lines and also contribute to acne management – a wonderful combination for menopausal skin.
- Mindful moisturizing
Indulge in lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers, absolutely, every day. Hydrated skin is happy skin, and the right moisturizer can strike that perfect balance.
- Probiotics
Do explore the benefits of probiotics for your overall health – and also your skin!
Probiotics can contribute not only to gut health but also to the overall well-being of your skin.
DON’Ts
- Hot Water – No-No
Don’t do hot showers. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, with the potential to dry your skin (and/or irritate your skin), which eventually causes your skin to oil up – and lead to acne breakouts.
- Harsh scrubs
Don’t use harsh exfoliants or scrubs. During this period, skin tends to be more sensitive, and abrasive products can exacerbate irritation, including acne.
- Hands-off picking
Don’t give in to the temptation of picking at blemishes.
Picking can lead to scarring, prolong the healing process, and potentially cause acne scarring associated with menopause.
- Overloading with different products
Don’t overwhelm your (already sensitive) skin with too many products. Keep it simple to understand what truly benefits your unique skin.
- Neglecting diet
Don’t overlook the importance of a balanced diet and good nutrition. Nutrient-rich foods play a vital role in supporting overall skin health. On the other side, a diet rich in sugars and fats will worsen the breakouts during menopause.
The purpose of this article is informative and entertaining. It’s not a substitute for medical consultation or medical care. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here. Safety should be your priority.
Resources:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- https://everydayhealth.com
- https://www.aad.org/
- https://walgreens.com/
- https://www.allure.com/
