If you struggle with breakouts, finding the appropriate acne treatment is a must. But the first step to getting clear skin is determining what’s causing the issue in the first place. In many cases — especially with women — hormones are the culprit. Here are a few signs that they’re affecting your skin.

How to Tell If You Have Hormonal Acne

1. You Still Have Breakouts as an Adult

Young adults tend to have a lot of hormonal fluctuations. This explains why many people continue to have breakouts into young adulthood, even when they’re well past their teen years. For women, things like pregnancy, menstruation, and even menopause can cause acne.

2. Acne Shows Up Once a Month

In the same token, hormonal acne tends to show up each month, around a woman’s menstrual cycle. Breakouts usually appear seven to 10 days before a woman’s period starts, subsiding once they start bleeding. This acne may even affect the same area of the face over and over again. 

3. Your Breakouts Consist of Cysts

Non-hormonal acne usually consists of whiteheads and blackheads. Hormonal breakouts resemble cysts, which are painful bumps that start deep under the surface of the skin. Your acne treatment regimen may need to be altered to address cysts. For instance, topical treatments may make inflammation worse, so it’s best to consult a dermatologist for a more effective cream.

4. Acne Occurs Mostly Around the Chin & Jaw

When acne is caused by hormones, breakouts tend to occupy the lower area of the face, including the chin and jaw. This region contains more oil glands, which are activated by fluctuating hormone levels. Along with other acne treatments, make sure you’re properly cleansing this area when you wash your face.

If you’re looking for a safe and effective acne treatment, turn to Central Carolina Dermatology Clinic in High Point, NC. With more than six decades of experience, their team can identify what’s causing your acne and recommend a suitable treatment. Their other services include psoriasis treatment, mole removal, skin cancer evaluation and treatment, and treatment of spider veins. They make use of innovative procedures like Photodynamic Light Therapy, which is integral in the fight against skin cancer. Learn more about their acne treatments online, or call (336) 887-3195 to schedule an appointment today.