Acne Treatment for Menopausal Women

Menopausal women are prone to acne

Because of severe hormonal changes, menopausal women are prone to acne. Similar to acne caused by stress or puberty, clogged skin pores become infected, forming pimples. Acne treatment consists of daily face wash or consulting a dermatologist for alternative options.

Causes

Skin pores are made up of tiny glands called sebaceous glands (oil glands) and produce an oil called sebum. Pimples are caused when the oil glands, due to overactive hormones, make too much sebum. The excess sebum mixes with dirt from everyday living, clogging the oil glands. This causes a small infection. As a result of the minor infection, pimples---blemishes, or zits---appear on the skin.

Acne in Menopausal Women

The overactive hormones that cause acne are called androgens, such as testosterone. Testosterone, considered a male hormone, is also found highly active in women. When testosterone is overproducing, it stimulates the oil glands---leading to excess production of sebum. Women get acne during menopause due to the overproduction of testosterone.

Prevention/Solution

Washing your face twice a day can help reduce acne. Choose a face wash that your skin doesn't react to. When choosing cleansing wash, you should ensure your face does not become red or irritated; if it does, choose another brand of face wash. Do not scrub your face with a washcloth, for it will make your acne peel and possibly scar.

Considerations

If washing your face twice a day does not lessen the acne, you should visit the dermatologist for information on other possible solutions.

Potential

Menopausal women should also consider that their acne will clear up once the body has finished going through its changes.

References

• Acne