As an adult with problem skin, I know precisely how embarrassing it can be to experience a breakout right before an important meeting with clients, a big presentation at work, or a first date with someone new. I hate to admit it, but I've canceled meetings, called in sick, and backed out on dates just because of a fresh crop of pimples on my face. Some people would dismiss me as simply being vain, but they've probably never had a zit in their life. Fortunately, a dermatologist helped get to the root of my problem and set me up with a hormonal acne treatment that works relatively well.
I guess it could be argued that all pimples are the result of overactive hormones, but hormonal acne is mostly used to describe how women experience an increase in blemishes that corresponds with their menstrual cycle. This is likely due to the increased production of androgen. Therefore an effective hormonal acne treatment strives to control androgen as your cycle progresses.
How can you tell if you're in need of a hormonal acne treatment instead of the usual over-the-counter creams and lotions? The easiest way is to chart your cycle and note when your pimples come and go. You should do this over the course of three or four months to make sure there's a definite pattern before heading to your dermatologist. In addition, you probably need hormonal acne treatment if the usual benzoyl peroxide products don't work on your blemishes. But here again, it's probably best to see your doctor for a complete evaluation.
The most common hormonal acne treatment for women is birth control pills. Birth control pills are meant to control hormones, so it makes sense that one of the unintended consequences is clear skin. Not every birth control pill is made the same, however, which means you must specify to your doctor that you intend to use the pills as a hormonal acne treatment first and foremost. This will allow her to prescribe the proper formulation and dosage for your needs.
For those who wish to try an over-the-counter hormonal acne treatment that has been successful for some folks, just head to your local drugstore and check out headache medicines that contain Naproxen sodium -- commonly found in name brands like Aleve. Naproxen sodium is a non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which some women say is quite effective at minimizing the appearance of pimples that form during the menstrual cycle. Apparently, one tablet in the morning and another at night for four or 5 days prior to menstruation does the trick for those who have reported success.
These are just two ideas to help you control breakouts before and during your period. For a hormonal acne treatment tailored specifically for your body, be sure to visit your dermatologist today!