PCOS And Acne: Everything You Need To Know About

Most women from teens to adults, dread the word acne. Acne is a problem that can strike at any time, without any warning and if not treated well it can leave behind scars, itchy skin and inflammed skin. More often that not hormonal changes are the cause of acne and it is one of the most hated symptoms of PCOS.More than 35 per cent of women suffering from PCOS also face the problem of acne on their face, arms, neck, check and back. PCOS acne is a stubborn acne which is very difficult to ignore and calls for attention every time you look at your reflection.

Acne and PCOS develop a long term relationship because of two reasons. One is because of the overproduction of androgens (the male hormones) which causes over production of sebum leading to oiliness and blockage of pores. And the second reason is systemic PCOS inflammation.Of course, the vicious cycle of stress and emotions also contribute to aggravating acne.

Dr. Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics says, “Every woman has different types and intensity of acne because of PCOS and there is no magic pill that will cure the acne overnight. It is a long process in which you will need to work with your doctor. The fist step to acne treatment is to notice the triggers. PCOS acne is usually worse around the start of the periods or a few days before that.  It actually starts with lower face and spreads to chin, neck and back. It takes its own sweet time to go away and patience is the key to the treatment.”

Image: Pexels

Dermatologists use the following treatment lines for resolving PCOS acne and clear the skin. Here are some important tips to keep handy.

• Oral contraceptives/ birth control pills: These are hormone mimicking pills that regulate the periods and help control the acne somewhat. However, these pills cannot be taken for a long time.
• Spironolactone: This is an approved diuretic and works very well for some women by blocking testosterone from acting on the skin.
• Retinoids: These are derived from Vitamin A and generally used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and clear the skin tone. For treatment of PCOS acne prescription retinoids in the form of pills, cream or gel such as isotretinoin can be used. If you have been prescribed retinoids then make sure you wear sunscreen all through out the day to avoid the risk of hyperpigmentation.
• OTC creams containing benzoyl peroxide, sulphur etc are effective in reining in minor breakouts.

While the medicines work internally to control the hormonal imbalance, you can speed along the treatment by eliminating inflammation causing triggers from your lifestyle and food. For this keep a close eye on what food items are the warning signals. You will  notice a dramatic improvement in the acne healing once you keeping the flares out. Keep a diary of what you ate and acne inflammation. In general, common food items that might be aiding the inflammation include

Image: Pexels

• Dairy of all forms
• Alcohol
• Corn
• White rice
• Gluten
• Processed foods.

Keep in mind that even the best of PCOS acne treatment will be ineffective if you are not taking care of the skin by

• Keeping the stress at bay. Don’t fret be patient and acne will reduce
• Sleeping! Yes, a good 6-8 hours of sleep will do wonders for your skin and give your body a chance to rejuvenate.
• Including root vegetables such as beet roots, turnips, parsnips, carrots etc. in your diet. Other vegetables that can help are tomatoes, spinach, almond, walnut, berries, turmeric, and garlic. Whole grains such as millet, buckwheat, quinoa, brown rice, green tea provide antioxidants to your gut and keep the gut bacteria working properly. Salmon, organic meat and eggs also help.
• Do not touch the healing area. leave it alone!
• Taking max calories during breakfast and minimum in dinner.
• Washing and cleansing your face with products derived specifically for acne prone skin.
• Not scrubbing your kin.
• Using lukewarm water to wash the skin
• Avoiding excessive sun exposure.
• Keeping the skin and other organs hydrated
• Exercising and doing regular yoga and breathing practices.

Work with your dermatologist to control the PCOS and PCOS acne and you will be able to have a clear skin in just few months of treatment.

Article Source - https://www.femina.in/wellness/gynaec/pcos-and-acne-everything-you-need-to-know-about-205443.html