Best Foods And Herbs To Clear Hormonal Acne Now!

Hormonal acne typically appears in areas of the face, neck, and back and is most commonly seen in teenagers and young adults. While it is a common condition, hormonal acne can be distressing and can affect one’s self-esteem. In this post, we will discuss what hormonal acne is, what causes it, and how to clear hormonal acne naturally through diet and herbal remedies.

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What is Hormonal Acne?

Hormonal acne is a type of acne that is caused by hormonal imbalances in the body.

It typically occurs during puberty, when the body undergoes significant hormonal changes, but it can also occur during pregnancy, menopause, and in women who use hormonal birth control.

The main difference between hormonal acne and normal acne is the underlying cause.

Normal acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is caused by a combination of factors such as excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation.

Hormonal acne, on the other hand, is caused by hormonal imbalances in the body, particularly an increase in androgen hormones.

Hormonal acne typically occurs in specific areas of the face, such as the chin, jawline, and cheeks, whereas normal acne can occur anywhere on the face or body.

Hormonal acne may also be more severe and persistent than normal acne, with deep, cystic lesions that are painful and difficult to treat.

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Normal acne can affect people of all ages, whereas hormonal acne is most commonly seen in teenagers and young adults, particularly females.

They can also occur during pregnancy, menopause, and in women who use hormonal birth control.

What Causes Hormonal Acne?

Hormonal acne is caused by an increase in androgen hormones, which stimulate the production of sebum, a type of oil that can clog pores and cause acne.

Androgen hormones, such as testosterone, are typically more prevalent in males, which is why teenage boys often experience more severe acne than teenage girls.

However, hormonal imbalances can cause an increase in androgen hormones in females as well, leading to hormonal acne.

In addition to hormonal imbalances, other factors can contribute to hormonal acne, such as:

• Genetics – If your parents or siblings have acne, you are more likely to develop it.
• Diet – Eating a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and dairy products can contribute to hormonal imbalances and acne.
• Stress – Stress can cause an increase in cortisol, a hormone that can contribute to acne.

How to Clear Hormonal Acne Naturally

Treatment for hormonal acne may require a different approach than normal acne.

While both types of acne can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medication, hormonal acne may require additional hormonal therapy, such as oral contraceptives or anti-androgen medications.

Addressing underlying hormonal imbalances through diet and lifestyle changes may be more beneficial in treating hormonal acne in the long run, and far less harmful to health.

Some natural ways to solve hormonal acne are:

Diet

Eating a healthy diet with certain foods can help reduce androgen hormone levels.

Here are some of the best foods to counteract those hormones in women and improve skin condition:

• Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds are high in lignans, a type of phytoestrogen that can help regulate hormone levels. Studies have shown that flaxseeds can reduce androgen hormone levels in women with PCOS.
• Spearmint tea: Spearmint tea has anti-androgenic properties and can help reduce testosterone levels in women with hirsutism and PCOS.
• Berries: Berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are rich in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and balance hormones.
• Leafy greens: Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in magnesium, which is important for hormone balance. They also contain phytoestrogens that can help regulate hormone levels.
• Soy products: Soy products such as tofu, tempeh, and edamame contain phytoestrogens that can help balance hormones. However, it’s important to note that excessive consumption of soy products may have adverse effects on hormone levels.
• Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce androgen levels in women with PCOS.
• Omega-3 rich foods: Omega-3 fatty acids found in foods such as fatty fish, chia seeds, and walnuts can help reduce inflammation and balance hormones.
• Cruciferous vegetables: Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts contain indole-3-carbinol, a compound that can help regulate oestrogen metabolism and reduce androgen levels.
• Probiotics: they can help balance the gut microbiome and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to acne. Consuming probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables, can help improve gut health.

In addition to incorporating these foods into the diet, it’s important to limit or avoid processed foods, sugar, and dairy products, which can contribute to hormonal imbalances. 

Herbal Remedies

Herbs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to balance hormones and treat hormonal imbalances.

When it comes to counteracting androgen hormones in women, there are several herbs that have been shown to be effective.

Here are some of the best herbs to achieve that:

• Saw palmetto: Saw palmetto is a popular herb used to balance hormones, particularly in women with PCOS. It has anti-androgenic properties and can help reduce testosterone levels.
• Spearmint: Spearmint is a natural anti-androgen herb that can help reduce testosterone levels in women with hirsutism and PCOS. Spearmint tea is a convenient and easy way to incorporate this herb into your diet.
• Licorice root: Licorice root contains compounds that can help regulate hormone levels and reduce androgen production. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Peony: Peony is a traditional Chinese herb that has been used for centuries to treat hormonal imbalances in women. It has anti-androgenic properties and can help regulate menstrual cycles.
• Black cohosh: Black cohosh is an herb that can help regulate hormone levels and reduce androgen production. It is commonly used to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings.
• Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that can help reduce stress and cortisol levels, which can in turn help balance hormones. It has also been shown to reduce testosterone levels in women with PCOS.
• Chaste tree berry: Chaste tree berry, also known as Vitex, is a popular herb used to treat hormonal imbalances in women. It can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen production.

Before incorporating any herbs into your diet, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or registered herbalist to determine the appropriate dosage and any potential interactions with other medications or supplements.

Final Thoughts

Hormonal acne is a common condition that can be distressing and affect one’s self-esteem.

While there are many over-the-counter and prescription treatments available for acne, some people prefer to try natural remedies first.

By eating a healthy diet, using herbal remedies, managing stress, and using gentle skincare products, it is possible to solve hormonal acne naturally.

However, if acne persists, it is important to consult a dermatologist to explore other treatment options.

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