It’s been a hectic day, and you couldn’t be more thrilled to break from your weekday routine and spend a night out with the girls. Just as you’re putting on your final touches, you notice a small cluster of red bumps making an appearance on your forehead. Yikes!
Hormonal acne always seems to pop up in your life unexpectedly and unwelcome. However don’t feel alone; it’s extremely common amongst young woman and teens. Here are five steps to handle hormonal acne (and better yet, ways to avoid it all together).
1. Limit Your Sugar Intake
Your sugar levels affect every aspect of your body, including your skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, studies show that sugar and foods with a high glycemic load (white bread, rice, pasta) have been linked to worsening acne.
It may be difficult to adjust your diet since your hormone levels tend to make your taste buds crave sweet treats. But although it may not be easy, stay away from snacks like chocolate, and gravitate toward healthier options such as carrots and dip. One way to avoid sugary snacks is to keep them out of your pantry. You won’t feel tempted to indulge them if they aren’t sitting in your kitchen cupboard as a reminder of their presence.
2. Take Off Makeup
If you’re an everyday makeup wearer like myself, you have a bit of understanding of the importance of taking off your makeup before bed. While foundation and concealer can be a great way to cover your acne or blemishes, it also can worsen your acne if used without caution. Makeup can build up bacteria, which clogs your pores and adds to hormonal acne. Remove your makeup and wash your face twice a day (once before bed and once when you wake up).
3. Disinfect Everyday Items
Washing your hands is a given, but you should take it a step further and clean anything that goes near your face. For example, if you use your cell phone on a daily basis without cleaning it, bacteria will build up. If your constantly touching your cell phone and then your face or putting your cell phone against your cheek for phone calls, there is a likely chance your acne will begin to flare up because of the bacteria overload.
4. Keep Your Stress Levels in Check
The day-to-day craziness of life can be stressful and it can add up. When you’re stressed, a hormone fluctuation causes an increase of the amount oil in your skin, which results in clogged pores and breakouts. Limit your stress levels if possible. Take a yoga classes or try meditation. Another tip is to schedule free time everyday to unwind or take part in something that you love.
5. Exercise Regularly
Exercise is not only overall healthy for your body, but it reduces stress that can contribute to acne breakouts. Movement helps increase your blood flow, which sends oxygen to your skin cells and distribute cell waste. However, be sure to cleanse your skin after working out. Perspiration mixing with bacteria is another factor that contributes to unwanted acne.
6. Visit a Doctor
If your acne levels are extreme or non prescription methods of treatment aren’t affective, talk to your doctor. There are various prescription treatments that may be your best option. Everyone’s skin is reacts differently to medications. What may work for your friend may not work for you. Explore your options.
Acne is never fun to deal with, especially on a night out where photos will be taken. Follow these tips and put an end to unwanted breakouts.
Cover image courtesy of Shutterstock.
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