Why do acne occur during menstruation?
Many women face skin problems during menstruation, especially acne breakouts. This phenomenon is closely related to factors such as changes in hormone levels, increased skin oil secretion, and inflammatory responses. This article will analyze in detail the causes of acne during menstruation and provide relevant data and suggestions.
1. The relationship between hormonal changes and acne

During the menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate significantly, and the relative increase in androgens (such as testosterone) stimulates the sebaceous glands to secrete more oil, causing clogged pores and triggering acne. Here's how hormone levels change during the menstrual cycle:
| menstrual cycle phases | estrogen levels | progesterone levels | androgen levels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Menstrual period (days 1-5) | low | low | relatively high |
| Follicular phase (days 6-14) | gradually rise | low | stable |
| Ovulation period (around day 14) | peak | start to rise | transient increase |
| Luteal phase (days 15-28) | fall | high | relatively high |
As can be seen from the table, androgen levels are higher during the menstrual and luteal phases, which are the stages when acne breaks out easily.
2. Other influencing factors
In addition to hormonal changes, the following factors may exacerbate acne problems during menstruation:
1.Increased pressure:Mood swings are greater before menstruation, and the secretion of stress hormones (such as cortisol) may further stimulate the sebaceous glands.
2.Improper diet:Foods high in sugar and fat may aggravate inflammation and promote the formation of acne.
3.Lack of sleep:Poor sleep quality affects the skin's ability to repair itself, making it harder to get rid of acne.
3. How to relieve menstrual acne
For menstrual period acne, you can take the following measures:
| measures | Specific methods |
|---|---|
| Adjust diet | Reduce sugar and dairy intake and eat more foods rich in Omega-3 (such as deep-sea fish, nuts) |
| Strengthen skin care | Use gentle cleansers and avoid over-cleansing; choose skin care products containing salicylic acid or azelaic acid |
| manage stress | Relieve stress with yoga, meditation, or moderate exercise |
| Medical consultation | If acne is severe, consider taking short-acting birth control pills (hormonal regulation) or topical antibiotic ointments |
4. Summary
Acne during menstruation is a common physiological phenomenon, which is mainly related to hormone fluctuations, increased oil secretion and inflammatory response. This problem can be effectively alleviated by adjusting your lifestyle, taking proper skin care, and seeking medical help when necessary. If acne recurs or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist promptly.
I hope this article can help you better understand the causes and treatment methods of menstrual acne, so that you can keep your skin healthy during this special period!
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