Menopause and puberty can mirror each other in many ways, including the sudden increase in breakouts. People going through menopause are often surprised to find themselves battling blackheads and pimples, even if they never struggled with acne before in their lives. The cause of menopause breakouts is tied to your changing hormonal levels.
Causes of Acne During Menopause
Changing hormones cause differences in skin texture, elasticity, and balance. You may find yourself suddenly fighting with clogged pores and inflamed spots on your face, chest, and back, despite having a good skincare routine.
During menopause, the body releases more androgens, which can lead to a variety of conditions. In addition to breakouts, hyperandrogenism can cause hair loss through androgenic alopecia and excess hair growth around the mouth and chin areas (hirsutism).
Do Menopause Breakouts Go Away Naturally?
As your hormone levels settle, you will likely notice a reduction in acne and flare-ups. Most perimenopausal people find that their skin woes vanish once they enter post-menopause.
However, you aren’t forced to struggle throughout the process. Both natural and medical treatments can help improve the appearance of your skin during menopause.
Dr. Nita Patel helps patients address perimenopausal acne through personalized skin treatments; these may include topical gels and creams, oral prescription medication, or scar treatment and skin resurfacing.
Tips for Managing Breakouts During Menopause
As you progress through menopause, these tips can help you manage your skin and reduce inflammation, redness, and swelling:
- Wash your skin with a cleanser designed to treat acne; look for one with salicylic acid as a primary ingredient.
- Have a dermatologist recommend a topical antimicrobial treatment.
- Avoid picking, peeling, or popping any blemishes, as this can spread bacteria and lead to scarring.
- Use mineral makeup or water-based cosmetics to reduce irritation and clogged pores.
- Consider trying a HydraFacial to clear your pores and infuse your skin with nourishing serums.
Schedule an Appointment With Dr. Nita Patel, MD
If you would like to personalize your menopause care, please request an appointment with Dr. Nita Patel, MD. As a board-certified dermatologist, she offers her patients in-depth support to care for their skin at every age. You can reach the dermatology office in Marina Del Ray, CA, by calling 310-577-7544.
