Understanding Menopausal Acne and Its Normalcy

As we age, our bodies undergo various transformations, and menopause is a significant life transition that brings about various physical and hormonal changes in a woman’s life. 

While menopause brings about the end of menstrual cycles and reproductive capabilities, it also introduces several hormonal changes that impact the skin; one common concern many women experience during this phase is menopausal acne. 

Acne is often associated with teenage years, making it surprising for some women to encounter it again during menopause. However, menopausal acne is a normal phenomenon, which is why understanding the factors contributing to its development is essential for maintaining healthy skin. 

In this article, we will delve into the 4 factors that cause menopausal acne and explore 7 effective tips to treat it.  

4 Factors That Cause Menopausal Acne

Understanding the 4 factors that cause menopausal acne can help women approach this skin concern cautiously and take proactive steps to manage and minimize its impact.

1. Hormonal changes

 

Menopausal acne is primarily attributed to hormonal changes that occur during menopause — a natural biological process marking the end of awoman’s reproductive years — resulting from a woman’s body experiencing a significant decline in hormone production, particularly estrogen andprogesterone. 

 

Estrogen and progesterone are the two main female sex hormones responsible for regulating various physiological functions in the body, including playing a significant role in maintaining healthy skin. 

 

Low estrogen levels result in a reduction of skin moisture; estrogen plays a vital role in maintaining the skin’s hydration by promoting the production of natural moisturizing factors. With decreased estrogen during menopause, the skin becomes drier and more prone to irritation, inflammation and sensitivity, which leads to a compromised skin barrier, making it easier for  bacteria and external pollutants to penetrate and trigger acne breakouts.

 

On the other hand, when progesterone levels are low relative to estrogen levels, it can lead to a condition called estrogen dominance which further exacerbates menopausal acne; this hormonal imbalance can affect insulin sensitivity, leading to higher insulin levels in the blood.

 

Increased insulin levels stimulate the ovaries to produce higher amounts ofandrogens, which are male sex hormones also present in females but in smaller quantities; the androgen levels become higher than normal, leading to androgen excess.

 

Higher levels of androgens amplify testosterone production and become relatively more dominant in proportion, which leads to an increased production of sebum, an oily substance that helps lubricate the skin and keep it moisturized. Excess sebum clogs pores, creating an environment conducive to the growth of acne-causing bacteria, resulting in acne breakouts.

 

That being said, the interaction between hormone levels and skin moisture is critical in understanding the development of menopausal acne. While some women may experience dry and flaky skin during menopause, others may have oilier skin due to the influence of androgens; both scenarios can contribute to the development of acne.

2. Increased stress levels

Stress is a prevalent aspect of modern life, and menopause can often bring additional stress due to its impact on various aspects of a woman’s life. From physical to emotional changes, menopause can be overwhelming for women causing them to experience increased stress levels. 

Increased stress levels trigger the release of cortisol — a hormone that can stimulate the sebaceous glands — which leads to increased sebum production, exacerbates hormonal imbalances and promotes inflammatory responses in the body, all of whichworsen acne breakouts and flare-ups. 

3. Decreased collagen and elastin production and dermal thickness.

Apart from hormonal changes and increased stress levels, menopause is also associated withdecreased collagen and elastin production and dermal thickness.

Collagen and elastin are crucial proteins that maintain the skin’s structure, firmness, elasticity, and overall youthful appearance. As estrogen levels decline, collagen and elastin production decreases, leading to thinner and more fragile skin making it more susceptible to environmental damage. 

As a result, menopause not only impacts acne development but also slows down the healing process of existing acne blemishes, making menopausal acne a persistent concern.

4. Lifestyle and skincare habits

Lifestyle and skincare habits also contribute to the development and severity of menopausal acne; factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, and skincare routines may either exacerbate or alleviate acne symptoms during menopause.

7 Effective Tips To Treat Menopausal Acne

While menopausal acne is a natural part of the transition and cannot be entirely prevented, there are effective tips to treat, manage and improve the condition:

1. Implement a suitable skincare routine for menopausal acne.

 

Implementing a suitable skincare routine to address the specific needs of menopausal skin is essential to treat menopausal acne.

As the skin becomes drier and more sensitive during menopause, be cautious with skincare products that may contain harsh chemicals, such as harsh cleansers and abrasive exfoliants.

Instead, opt for a gentle and consistent skincare routine that includes mild cleansers and non-comedogenic moisturizers that promote skin barrier repair and incorporate skincare products with ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) or benzoyl peroxide to control acne.

2. Incorporate topical skincare treatments or/and cosmetic procedures.

Incorporating topical treatments containing ingredients like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) or benzoyl peroxide and cosmetic procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser therapy into your skincare routine can help exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce acne-causing bacteria; start with a lower concentration and gradually increase usage to avoid irritation.

It’s crucial to consult a qualified professional to ensure the safety and suitability of these cosmetic procedures for individual skin types, to use topical skincare treatments judiciously and incorporate adequate sun protection as they can make the skin more susceptible to UV damage.

3. Hormonal therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves the use of synthetic hormones to alleviate menopausal symptoms by rebalancing hormones.

Depending on the specific hormones used and their dosages, hormone replacement therapy can either improve or worsen acne, which is why it’s essential for women undergoing this therapy to discuss its potential effects on the skin with their healthcare provider.

Managing menopausal acne involves a combination of strategies tailored to individual needs, so consult with a qualified dermatologist to determine if hormone replacement therapy is suitable for your specific skin needs and create a personalized treatment plan. 

Note: HRT should only be pursued after a thorough evaluation and discussion with a healthcare professional, as it may have potential risks and side effects.

4. Manage stress

Stress triggers sebum production, exacerbates hormonal imbalances and promotes inflammatory responses in the body, which worsens menopausal acne. It’s essential for women going through menopause to prioritize stress management techniques in their daily lives.

Engage in stress-reducing activities that reduce stress and promote relaxation, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature to help balance hormones and reduce acne triggers.

5. Healthy diet

Diet plays a crucial role in overall health, including skin health, because the foods we consume can impact hormone levels and skin conditions. 

Minimize the intake of high-glycemic foods, such as sugary and processed carbohydrates, as they can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, increasing insulin production. As mentioned earlier, elevated insulin levels can trigger higher androgen production, promoting sebum production and acne formation.

Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet can help support hormone regulation and overall skin health; consuming various fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide essential nutrients for the skin.

 

6. Regular exercise

Incorporating regular physical activity into daily life is not only beneficial for overall health but can also have a positive impact on menopausal acne. 

Exercise helps improve blood circulation, promotes the elimination of toxins through sweating, and reduces stress levels, all of which can contribute to healthier skin.

Engaging in activities like yoga, cycling, swimming, or even brisk walking helps regulate hormone levels and reduce stress, which in turn may help manage menopausal acne. 

7. Consult with a qualified dermatologist. 

If menopausal acne is severe or persistent, it is advisable to seek professional advice and help from a qualified dermatologist who can recommend incorporating the right skincare practices and appropriate treatments or medications to manage menopausal acne further effectively.

Each woman’s experience with menopausal acne can vary, and some may experience more pronounced symptoms than others. It’s crucial to understand that this condition does not reflect one’s skincare habits or hygiene. Rather, it is a natural response to the hormonal changes occurring within the body.

Embracing this transitional period with self-care and the right resources will not only aid in managing menopausal acne but also promote overall well-being for a beautiful and confident you during this transformative phase of a woman’s life.