*Content reviewed by HotPause Health Medical Advisor & Board-Certified Dermatologist Marisa Chapman, MD

What Can You Do For Acne In Menopause?

HotPause Health Medical Advisor and board-certified Dermatologist, Dr. Marisa Chapman shares tips for acne in menopause. Dealing with acne during menopause can be frustrating, but working closely with a dermatologist can help you create an effective skin care plan tailored to your needs.

As hormonal changes alter your skin’s condition, you might need to adjust your usual skincare routine to manage acne effectively. Here are some recommended strategies:

• Choose Gentle Cleansers: Use mild soaps or cleansers that don’t irritate your skin. Harsh products can aggravate acne and dry out your skin.
• Avoid Over-washing: Washing your face too frequently can actually worsen acne by stripping the skin of its natural oils. Aim to wash your face no more than twice a day.
• Moisturize and Protect: Incorporate a daily moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Ensure it includes sunscreen to protect against UV damage, which can exacerbate skin aging and acne.
• Consider Acne-Care Products: For acne-prone skin, look for products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and dimethicone. These can help maintain moisture without clogging pores.
• Salicylic Acid: This over-the-counter ingredient can be found in cleansers, lotions, and other products, and helps minimize acne by exfoliating dead skin cells and decreasing inflammation (redness and swelling).
• Benzoyl Peroxide: Another over-the-counter treatment, it is effective for reducing acne by killing bacteria and removing excess oil and dead skin cells.
• Clindamycin or Dapsone Gel: For more severe cases, these prescription medications offer antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits and have been proven to effectively combat acne.
• Topical Retinoids: These medications promote cell turnover, unclog pores, and have anti-inflammatory effects, all of which can improve skin appearance and prevent future breakouts. They also help improve the appearance of surface wrinkles and dark spots, as an added benefit. Adapalene 0.1% gel is a topical retinoid that is available over-the-counter. Prescription-level retinoids include tretinoin, tazarotene, and adapalene 0.3% gel.
• Topical or Oral Spironolactone: This prescription medication has anti-androgen effects and works by targeting the hormonal pathways involved in menopausal acne.
• Consider Oral Antibiotics: In some cases, oral antibiotics might be appropriate, due to their anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory effect. Always use them under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
• Hormone Therapy: Utilizing estrogen in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) not only addresses common menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, but also enhances skin elasticity, thickness, hydration, and collagen quality. By rebalancing hormones, MHT can potentially prevent acne outbreaks.
• Choose the Right Cosmetics: Opt for non-oil-based makeup to avoid clogging pores. Look for products labeled as “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic.” Keeping makeup applicators and brushes clean, and removing makeup before sleeping also helps minimize bacterial buildup.
• Avoid Picking at Pimples: While it might be tempting, picking or popping pimples can cause further irritation, lead to scarring, and spread bacteria. For persistent pimples, it’s better to consult a dermatologist who can provide professional extraction or treatment.