Hormonal imbalances, PCOS and acne
The hormonal imbalance that results in jawline acne is thought to be caused by a relative increase in androgen levels, explained Dr. Yang. Androgens are male hormones which can result in increased oil gland production and clogging of pores.
Following a nutrient-dense diet, cutting out dairy, and limiting added sugars are evidence-based practices that may improve acne symptoms. Taking certain supplements like vitamin D and green tea extract, getting enough sleep, quitting smoking, and reducing stress are other healthy ways to fight this disease.
What does hormonal acne look like? Whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, cysts and nodules are all common hormonal acne symptoms. Normally, whiteheads and blackheads do not cause pain, inflammation or swelling, but if they do, then they are most likely forming into cysts and pustules.
Does hormonal acne go away? Acne can't be cured, but with careful treatment you can keep it under control. The severity of the symptoms of hormonal acne are different for everyone. If you develop acne during puberty, it tends to peak at age 17-19 and for most people will go away by their mid-20s.
But what exactly is hormonal acne and how do you treat it? Hormonal breakouts are usually the large, Mount Vesuvius-like flare-ups that can last up to 2-3 weeks. They're big, they're painful, and they don't budge.
Androgens. Androgens represent the most important of all hormones regulating sebum production. As of puberty, androgens stimulate sebum production and acne formation in both sexes. This androgen-dependent secretion of sebum is mediated by potent androgens such as testosterone and DHT and likewise with weaker androgens.
Vitamin D is actually a hormone that communicates with your other hormones, making it especially essential to help balance hormones. So, ensure you're getting enough vitamin D2 and D3 to ease and prevent hormonal fluctuations.
Balancing your hormones is a complicated process and takes time. It will often take up to 3 menstrual cycles to fully experience the benefits of bringing your hormones back in to balance.
Exercises that help boost hormone levels
Petty recommends a combination of strength training and cardio workouts to maximize health benefits and boost hormone levels. High-intensity exercises like squats, lunges, pull-ups, crunches and pushups are ideal, with minimal rest time in between.
Green Tea
Studies suggest that it boosts metabolism. Green tea also contains theanine, a compound which reduces the release of cortisol (a stress hormone). It also has antioxidants that reduce inflammation and lower risk of disease.
The main causes of hormonal imbalances are issues with the thyroid, stress, and eating disorders. Some symptoms include irregular periods, low sex-drive, unexplained weight gain, and mood swings.
The hormone estrogen is responsible for making skin look younger due to the hyaluronic acid it produces. Estrogen not only affects your skin but also your muscle mass, metabolism, and energy levels. Women have more estrogen than men do; men have more testosterone than women do.
Drink More Water
When you're dehydrated, it affects your body's glandular function, which can lead to hormonal imbalance. Drinking water helps flush toxins from your body and keeps your cells functioning at optimal levels. You may be tempted to pick up an energy drink or juice to stay hydrated but think again.
Vitamin D supplements cause hormonal acne in almost everyone who is acne-prone, and even in those who weren't previously struggling with acne. Here's why Vitamin D supplements can cause acne: the first key reason is that Vitamin D stimulates testosterone, which is the primary hormone that aggravates hormonal acne.
Taking a supplement that includes the different B vitamins can help alleviate the symptoms of hormone imbalance. Inadequate amounts of these vitamins will affect your hormones. Taking a supplement that increases the amount of vitamin B in your body will help restore balance to your system.
Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance
Symptoms that may suggest hormonal imbalance include bloating, fatigue, irritability, hair loss, palpitations, mood swings, problems with blood sugar, trouble concentrating, and infertility. These are just a few symptoms of hormone imbalance.
Did you know vitamin C plays a key role in supporting hormone function and thyroid health? It's also great for your cardiovascular system and can even help keep your skin looking youthful.
Zinc's anti-inflammatory properties help the body to reduce swelling and redness in acne patients. Studies show that patients who were treated with zinc noticed a decrease in active breakouts compared to those who didn't. Since zinc also helps wound healing, it can help to reduce any residual acne scarring.