Spots recurring around the jaw, chin, and lips are symptomatic of hormonal acne, but how can you stop it from occuring?
Triggered by hormonal fluctuations, many adult women suffer from a resurgence of acne, or may experience the skin condition for the very first time in older age.
Sk:n Clinics confirmed hormonal acne can result in whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts.
The UK’s leading skin clinic said: “Hormonal changes can aggravate acne inflammation by increasing the production of an acne-causing bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes.”
Mild cases of hormonal acne may respond well to over-the-counter topical treatments, such as retinoids, natural acids (AHAs and BHAs) and benzoyl peroxide.
“In some cases, mild acne can also be addressed using natural remedies,” said Sk:n Clinics.
One such natural remedy is green tea, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
While there is not enough evidence to validate the efficiency of green tea against hormonal acne, it’s worth a try.
Dr Cynthia Cobb, who specialises in aesthetics and cosmetics, verified that green tea is a natural, non-chemical way to treat breakouts.
For some people, research has shown that the consumption of green tea can help improve lesions, redness and irritated skin caused by acne.
Green tea contains catechins, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties.
Especially rich in epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the polyphenol has been shown to improve acne and oily skin.
EGCG is also anti-androgenic, Dr Cobb confirmed, which means it is effective at reducing oil secretions in the skin.
Due to a lack of research in the area, there is no recommended amount of green tea to take daily to help with hormonal acne.
However, Dr Cobb substantiated that two to three cups daily should suffice for a try-at-home method to ease inflammatory acne.
Loose green tea leaves is regarded as better quality than green tea bags, but whichever you choose, the best versions are organically grown.
Certified organically grown teas should not contain any pesticides, chemicals or additives.
