Menopausal acne development is a common feature of the menopause. Unfortunately, like other symptoms of this challenging time, its course varies from woman to woman. In some cases, hormonal acne may be a passing phase as hormone levels stabilise, while other women may suffer from it for much longer.
Acne during menopause can affect self-esteem at a time when confidence is taking a hit anyway due to other menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and weight gain.
However, there are several approaches to hormonal acne, and most women find that a combination of treatments helps restore calm to their skin.
If you are one of the many women who experience acne during menopause, you may find the following information useful.
What is menopausal acne?
Hormonal fluctuations can cause inflammatory acne on the face, often seen as cystic acne on the chin and jawline.
Many women in their 40s start to suffer from perimenopausal acne as their menopause transition begins, while others experience menopausal acne in their 50s or 60s.
Why is menopausal skin prone to acne?
Adult acne in women develops when oestrogen and progesterone levels begin to fluctuate. Androgen levels rise, stimulating increased sebum production from the sebaceous glands, leading to clogged pores.
At the same time, low oestrogen levels affect the skin barrier, making the skin drier and less resistant to acne-causing bacteria, often resulting in inflammatory acne.
Medical treatments for acne during menopause
Oral medications have their place in the treatment of acne in mature skin.
Oral antibiotics
Antibiotics help to reduce infection and the red inflammation that accompanies it.
Drugs to block androgen receptors
Extreme cases of menopausal acne can be treated with drugs that block androgen receptors, reducing sebum production.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Fluctuating hormone levels can be stabilised with the use of hormone replacement therapy.
Topical acne treatments for mature skin
The same topical treatments used in teenage acne can be used in treating menopausal acne.
These include :
- Topical retinoids
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Salicylic acid, azelaic acid or any other mild acids that loosen dead skin cells from the top layer
Salon treatments like chemical peels and light therapy may also help with unclogging pores and reducing inflammation.
Does a good skincare routine help with adult acne?
Acne thrives on sebum, clogged pores and bacteria, so acne can be discouraged with a gentle but effective skincare routine.
Cleanser
A gentle cleanser used routinely will keep skin clean and fresh.
Exfoliation
Gentle exfoliation with salicylic acid-based products boosts cell turnover, but abrasive over-the-counter treatments should be avoided, as they can disrupt the skin barrier and worsen acne.
Gentle unscented moisturisers are best for menopausal skin affected by acne.
Lifestyle factors
Your overall health is reflected in your skin health, so taking better care of yourself may help you with acne.
Focusing on the following may make you and your skin much happier.
- Having a healthy diet and avoiding sugar and processed foods
- Reducing stress hormone levels with relaxation and regular exercise
- Prioritising sleep to encourage skin repair and hormone regulation
Next steps
We are the experts in all aspects of menopause, so why not book a consultation to see how we can help with all your menopausal challenges?
Our private HRT clinic is CQC registered. To book an appointment, please call 01706 691683, email info@themenopauseclinic.com, or book online here.
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