For many of us, breakouts during certain times of the month can feel as inevitable as the cycle itself. These hormonal or period breakouts are influenced by shifts in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, which can increase oil production and lead to blocked pores and inflammation. But the good news? You don’t have to let your skin be at the mercy of your hormones!

With the right approach and skincare strategy, you can minimize the frequency and intensity of these breakouts. Here are five practical tips to help keep hormonal breakouts at bay.

1. Keep Your Skin Consistently Clean and Balanced

The foundation of clear skin is a regular, gentle cleansing routine. During your menstrual cycle, the skin may produce more sebum, so it’s essential to cleanse away impurities, makeup, and excess oil effectively. However, harsh cleansers can strip your skin of moisture, leading to overcompensation in oil production and more breakouts.

Pro Tip: Use a mild, sulfate-free cleanser twice daily, morning and night. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil to help keep the skin clear. Avoid over-washing, as this can cause irritation, especially when your skin is more sensitive.

Product we recommend: CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, EqualRXN Higher Capacity Cleansing Fluid

2. Incorporate Oil-Balancing Ingredients into Your Routine

Balancing oil production is key to managing hormonal breakouts. Using products with ingredients like zinc PCA and niacinamide can help regulate sebum without overly drying your skin. Zinc PCA, for instance, has anti-inflammatory properties and can keep your oil levels in check, helping reduce the severity of breakouts.

Pro Tip: Try a treatment powder or serum with zinc PCA, which can reduce oil from the root while soothing inflammation. Niacinamide, another fantastic choice, is great for reducing redness and controlling excess oil without causing irritation.

Product we recommend: EqualRXN Spirulina Zinc Treatment Loose Powder

3. Add a Gentle Exfoliant to Prevent Clogged Pores

Hormonal shifts often lead to more dead skin cell buildup, which can clog pores and lead to acne. Regular, gentle exfoliation can help slough off these dead cells and keep pores clear. Use a mild exfoliating product containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to prevent clogged pores while respecting the skin’s barrier.

Pro Tip: Opt for a BHA, like salicylic acid, which penetrates deeply to clear pores. Use it once or twice a week, especially leading up to your period, when your skin is more prone to breakouts.

Product we recommend: EqualRXN Oat Milk PHA Serum, Paula's Choice 2% BHA

4. Focus on Anti-Inflammatory Foods and Hydration

Diet plays a more significant role in skin health than we often realize. To combat hormonal acne, focus on anti-inflammatory foods, like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fish, which help manage inflammation. Avoid high-sugar and high-dairy foods, as these can sometimes exacerbate breakouts. Drinking enough water is also vital to keep your skin hydrated and help flush out toxins that could contribute to acne.

Pro Tip: Consider incorporating supplements like omega-3s and zinc, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help balance hormones. Drinking green tea, rich in antioxidants, can also support skin health and prevent breakouts.

5. Prioritize Stress Management

Hormones don’t act alone in causing breakouts; stress can make matters worse. When stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can increase oil production and trigger breakouts. Prioritizing self-care routines, like meditation, exercise, or journaling, can help manage stress and keep skin calmer during hormonal fluctuations.

Pro Tip: Aim for a quick daily ritual, whether it’s a 10-minute breathing exercise, a short walk, or simply unwinding with your skincare routine. Small but consistent stress-reduction habits can make a big difference over time.

While hormonal breakouts may feel frustrating, you don’t have to let them control your skin! With a consistent skincare routine, balanced diet, and a focus on wellness, you can significantly reduce the occurrence and severity of these breakouts. Remember, it’s about finding a routine that works for your unique skin and sticking to it consistently. Try these tips, stay patient, and celebrate the progress you see. Here’s to smoother, clearer skin all month long!