It doesn't matter if we use the cosmetics favored by TikTok influencers; if our skin problems are hormonal in origin, even the best products often won't help. Beautiful skin very often starts from within, so by supporting our hormonal system, we can achieve spectacular results.
In the online space, we see girls with glass-like skin almost everywhere, and they aren't shy about sharing their 15-step Korean beauty routines with us – in such moments, it can be terribly disappointing to face the fact that despite all the creams, serums, and cleansers, our own skin is still problematic.
If this is what you're experiencing, the problem likely isn't with you, or even necessarily with the products lined up on your bathroom shelf: it's possible that your skin issues are hormonal in origin.
When should you suspect that your skin problem is hormonal?
- the skin issues do not respond to conventional treatments
- multiple skin problems appear at the same time for no apparent reason
- increased hair growth or male-pattern hair loss is also present
- other women in the family have had hormonal issues
Skin problems of hormonal origin can take many forms, and unfortunately, it is common for multiple symptoms to appear simultaneously. One of the most unpleasant is stubborn acne, which often appears on the lower third of the face (jawline, upper neck) and does not respond to standard over-the-counter preparations – as these are not able to affect the hormonal component of sebum production.
However, painful deep cysts can also appear, and dark, velvety patches (acanthosis nigricans) or seborrheic dermatitis may develop. Many women also report small "bumps" or sandpaper-like skin: this can happen because a disruption in our hormonal function can lead to keratin buildup in the skin.
What causes hormonally-driven skin problems?
In women, hormonal skin problems are usually caused by elevated levels of androgen hormones, which can have several underlying causes. It is important that in such cases, it is worth approaching the resolution of the problem through the hormonal system: a thorough gynecological-endocrinological examination is a good first step so that we can be sure about the causes.
If the suspicion is confirmed, we can work toward a better complexion in several ways: lifestyle changes and treating the root causes, proper nutrition, and regular physical exercise are all essential.
In the case of inflamed, acne-prone skin, it is also worth developing our beauty routine more consciously:
- Strive for gentle cleansing that does not damage the skin barrier.
- Products containing salicylic acid and niacinamide can help clean pores and reduce inflammation.
- Retinol can also be effective, but always use it with caution and care (it should be completely avoided during pregnancy).
- Also, place an emphasis on daily sun protection.
With problematic skin, less is often more. Alongside proper internal support, one or two well-chosen cosmetics can be more than enough.
