Is There A Link Between Acne And Menopause?

In this article, we’ll explore the potential link between acne and menopause, looking at why some women may experience breakouts during this stage of life. We’ll explain the hormonal changes that occur during menopause and examine how these could contribute to acne. We’ll also discuss other key factors that might play a role in menopausal acne, including stress, lifestyle habits and changes to the skin’s natural balance. Finally, we’ll look at the most effective treatment options available to manage and reduce menopausal acne.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about the link between acne and menopause:

• Menopausal acne is largely driven by hormonal changes, particularly the decline in oestrogen levels and a relative increase in androgens.

• Stress exacerbates acne by raising cortisol levels, while genetics can predispose individuals to hormonal acne.

• Menopause causes the skin to become drier and less elastic, while androgen activity stimulates excess oil production.

• Treatments range from natural lifestyle changes to over-the-counter products like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, and prescription medications such as tretinoin, antibiotics and combination gels.

• Using non-comedogenic, oil-free makeup helps prevent pore clogging and breakouts.

Could the menopause be a potential cause of acne?

Menopause could be a potential cause of acne, as this stage of life involves significant hormonal changes that can impact the skin. During menopause, a drop in oestrogen levels is accompanied by an increase in androgens. This hormonal imbalance is a key factor in triggering acne, as well as other symptoms such as hirsutism (excess hair growth) and hair thinning. Other disorders associated with menopause, such as thyroid issues, hyperprolactinemia and insulin resistance, may also contribute to the development of menopausal acne [1].

What are the key factors that could play a role in menopausal acne?

Hormonal imbalances & stress

Hormonal imbalances and stress are among the most significant factors in menopausal acne. During menopause, declining oestrogen levels and a relative increase in androgens can disrupt the skin’s natural balance, leading to an overproduction of sebum and clogged pores. This creates optimum conditions for acne to develop. Stress can make this worse as it triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can increase oil production and inflammation in the skin.

Changes in your skin

Changes in your skin during menopause can also play a significant role in the development of acne. As oestrogen levels decline, the skin may become drier and lose some of its natural elasticity, making it more prone to irritation and inflammation. At the same time, the increase in androgen levels can stimulate glands to produce more oil, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Shifts in the skin’s texture, moisture levels and oil production can create the ideal conditions for menopausal acne, even for those who haven’t experienced acne in years.

The areas where your acne occurs

The areas where menopausal acne occurs can help you understand why it’s happening. Unlike teenage acne, which commonly appears on the forehead, nose and chin, menopausal acne is more likely to develop on the lower half of the face, including the jawline, chin and neck. This is often linked to hormonal imbalances as these areas are particularly sensitive to androgen activity. Hormonal changes can cause deeper, more stubborn acne in these regions, which may take longer to heal and can leave scars if not adequately treated.

If you've experienced acne at a younger age and your genetics

If you've had acne in your younger years, the likelihood of experiencing it during menopause may be higher, especially if acne runs in your family. Genetics play a significant role in how your skin behaves, influencing factors such as oil production, the size of your pores and how your skin reacts to hormonal fluctuations. If you’ve struggled with acne, particularly hormonal acne, the changes in your hormones during menopause can trigger breakouts.

Endocrine disorders such as Thyroid abnormalities, hyperprolactinemia, and insulin resistance

Endocrine disorders can also contribute to the development of menopausal acne. Conditions like thyroid abnormalities, hyperprolactinemia (high levels of prolactin) and insulin resistance can all interfere with the body's hormonal balance, leading to increased oil production and inflammation in the skin. 

Thyroid imbalances can alter the skin’s texture and moisture levels, while insulin resistance can cause higher androgen levels, which can worsen acne. Elevated prolactin levels may impact the skin’s ability to maintain its natural shape, further contributing to acne development during menopause.

How can you treat menopausal acne?

Natural solutions, such as lifestyle changes, to reduce stress triggers

One of the most effective ways to manage menopausal acne is by adopting natural solutions that focus on lifestyle changes, particularly those aimed at reducing stress. Stress is a significant trigger for acne as it increases cortisol levels, which in turn can lead to increased oil production and inflammation in the skin. 

To fight this, incorporating stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, regular physical exercise, and sufficient sleep can make a big difference. Focusing on a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats and anti-inflammatory foods can support overall skin health and help regulate hormone levels.

Over-the-counter treatments

There are several over-the-counter treatments that can help manage menopausal acne. Topical treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are popular as they work to reduce inflammation, unclog pores and control excess oil production. For those with more sensitive skin, products with tea tree oil or niacinamide can be soothing while still providing anti-inflammatory benefits. 

Additionally, using a gentle cleanser like Purifide Daily Cleanser that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils is important for maintaining balance. Always look for products that are non-comedogenic to ensure they won’t clog pores, and consider using a lightweight moisturiser like Purifide Microbiome Equaliser Moisturiser to prevent your skin from becoming too dry.

Prescription medications (as recommended by your doctor)

If over-the-counter treatments aren't providing enough relief, your doctor may recommend prescription medications to help manage menopausal acne. Some popular prescription treatments include:

• Tretinoin, a potent retinoid, can promote cell turnover, unclog pores and reduce inflammation, making it effective for more severe acne.

• Aknemycin Plus and Duac Once Daily Gel are topical treatments that combine antibiotics and ingredients like benzoyl peroxide to reduce bacteria and control excess oil production. 

• Differin Gel, another retinoid, works similarly to tretinoin but is often gentler on the skin. 

• Treclin Gel combines a retinoid with an antibiotic, providing a dual approach to treat acne.

• Oral antibiotics such as Lymecycline and Minocycline may also be prescribed to target the underlying bacterial causes of acne and reduce inflammation.

Always consult your doctor to find the most suitable treatment for your skin type and needs.

Using Noncomedogenic makeup

Switching to non-comedogenic makeup is a good way of managing menopausal acne. Non-comedogenic products are specifically formulated to avoid clogging pores, reducing the risk of breakouts. 

Look for makeup labelled as "oil-free" or "non-comedogenic" when choosing foundations, powders and concealers. Lightweight, breathable formulas are also good as they allow your skin to stay balanced without trapping excess oil or bacteria. Always ensure you remove your makeup thoroughly at the end of the day to prevent residue from building up on your skin. 

Final Thoughts

Menopausal acne is a complex issue influenced by hormonal imbalances, changes in skin texture, stress, genetics and underlying endocrine disorders. Hormonal fluctuations during menopause are a primary cause; however, factors like lifestyle habits, stress and a predisposition to acne can worsen the condition.

A range of treatment options are available, from natural solutions like stress management and dietary changes to over-the-counter treatments and prescription medications. Using non-comedogenic makeup can also help reduce the risk of breakouts while maintaining skin health.

Sources

[1] Menopausal Acne – Challenges And Solutions - PMC

Further Reading

Acne - Gen M