Many women experience acne before menstrual cycle. This may affect both adolescents and adult women. The appearance of acne is associated with changes in hormone levels in different phases of the menstrual cycle. Acne can be both sporadic and numerous, and usually disappear with the onset of periods.

Acne mechanism

The menstrual cycle is divided into several phases: follicular, ovulative, lutein and desquamas. During the follicular phase, estrogen production increases, which reduces sebaceous gland activity and enhances hyaluronic acid synthesis. This makes the skin less oily and more hydrated, increasing its turgor and protective properties. The lutein phase reduces estrogen levels and increases progesterone, which enhances the sebaceous glands. This can lead to the formation of inflammatory acne, especially with weakened immunity.

Other causes of acne

In addition to hormonal changes, other factors can affect the appearance of acne:

Hormonal changes in adolescence
Endocrine pathology
Hyperkeratosis (thickening of the cornea of the skin)
Fat loss
Digestive disease
Nervous tension
Weakened immunity
Inappropriate cosmetics
Climatic conditions (heat, humidity)
Frequent washing
Harmful working conditions
Pimpling
Corticosteroid administration
Clinical manifestations

Pimples usually appear one or two weeks before menstruation and disappear when menstruation begins. Localization of acne can be varied: on the face, back, chest and even in the buttock area. Pimples are inflamed hair follicles and sebaceous glands clogged with sebum and dead epidermis cells. Inflammation leads to the formation of large, red and painful acne.