Discover the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for period acne. Learn skincare tips, medical options, and when to see a doctor for hormonal breakouts.
Period acne, also called hormonal acne, is a common skin problem many experience just before or during their menstrual cycle. These breakouts typically occur on the jawline, chin, cheeks, or even the back and shoulders. The acne tends to be red, inflamed, and painful.
What Causes Period Acne?
Hormonal fluctuations during your menstrual cycle, especially rising progesterone and relatively higher testosterone levels, increase oil (sebum) production in your skin. Excess oil clogs pores, leading to acne breakouts. This cycle-related hormonal surge usually happens about a week before your period begins.
Common Symptoms
- Red, inflamed pimples mainly around the jawline and chin
- Occasional cystic or deep painful spots
- Breakouts that worsen before menstruation
- Oily skin and clogged pores
Effective Skincare Tips
- Use gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers twice daily
- Apply salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide products to unclog pores
- Try azelaic acid or niacinamide to reduce inflammation and redness
- Avoid picking or squeezing pimples to prevent scarring
- Use lightweight, oil-free moisturizers and sunscreens
Medical Treatments
If period acne is severe or persistent, a dermatologist may recommend:
- Topical or oral retinoids to promote skin cell turnover
- Hormonal therapies such as combined oral contraceptive pills
- Spironolactone to reduce androgen effects on the skin
- Short-term antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Isotretinoin for very severe cases under close supervision
Lifestyle & Dietary Support
- Maintain a balanced low-glycemic diet to stabilize insulin and hormones
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise
- Track your cycle to adjust skincare routines during flare-ups
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist if:
- Acne is severe, painful, or leaving scars
- Over-the-counter products aren’t helping
- Breakouts affect your confidence or mental well-being
- You experience other hormone-related symptoms such as irregular periods or hair growth
“Understanding the hormonal connection helped me finally get the right treatment and clear my skin.” – Real User Testimonial
Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| What is it? | Hormonal acne that flares before or during periods, mostly on jawline and chin. |
| Causes | Hormonal fluctuations increase sebum production and clog pores. |
| Skincare Tips | Gentle cleansers, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, avoid picking pimples. |
| Medical Treatments | Retinoids, birth control pills, spironolactone, antibiotics for severe cases. |
| Lifestyle | Low-GI diet, stress management, cycle tracking for targeted care. |
| When to See Doctor | Severe acne, scarring, no improvement, or other hormone symptoms. |