acne

Apart from the loss of monthly menstruation, a woman at menopause can also experience changes which are mainly due to hormonal imbalances. Progesterone and oestrogen hormones are vital for the development of women and therefore a loss of these hormones can mean a gradual change in the body which include menopausal acne or adult female acne. Acne can be caused by hormone swings, which occur extensively in menopause. It is hard for women to regress back to their teenage years of worrying about pimples whilst also struggling to deal with the other symptoms of menopause.

The production of the female adult acne is caused by hormones. The skin has a number of sebaceous glands which produce skin oil also known as sebum. Whilst skin cells are being regenerated, at the same time old ones die. When hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA rage, the sebaceous glands become sensitive and start to produce more skin oil than is necessary. Not only do you have more facial oil, you also have more dead skin cells. Your body is unable to keep up, and is therefore unable to get rid of the unwanted cells which in turn mean the hair follicles on your face get clogged up with the oil/dead cells. The skin oil increases yet again and this is when acne flares up. The sebaceous glands and the hair follicles also contain an enzyme which turns oestrogen into androgen testosterone which causes more oil production which means possibly more pimples than you may have experienced as a teenager.

White heads occur because the skin has bacteria that live off of the skin oil which builds up under the skin, thus producing inflamed red bumps with puss underneath. Blackheads occur when bacteria and oil combine and air is caught in the pore.

Experiencing acne during menopause can be frustrating and depressing. There are ways to help clear up the acne. The first step would be to look at your diet. Eat foods high in calcium and fibre and cut down your fat, sugary food and carbohydrate intake. Carbohydrates can turn insulin into androgens which increase the production of skin oil. Drinking plenty of water every day is essential. Although by maintaining a good diet and drinking plenty of water may not clear acne it will result in a healthier skin which is crucial during menopause.

You may also wish to consider, in addition to eating a healthier diet, taking some supplements such as vitamins B and C, Omega 3 fish oil, herbs and minerals such as zinc: these supplements can help reduce the oil production in your body.

You should also maintain your skin by perhaps washing it at least twice each day using a gentle cleanser. Toners can help close up open pores and exfoliating can help get rid of dead skin cells. However both of these methods should be applied gently. Use a water based cream or lotion to moisturise.

Over the counter medicines and lotions may also help but will not cure acne. However you may wish to consult your doctor/dermatologist about other options.

Information written by the talkhealth medical panel

Last Reviewed: 15 February 2011
Next Review Date: 15 February 2013