Skin Problems Caused by Hormonal Imbalance During Adolescence and Menopause

In adolescence, we often refer to skin blemishes as 'acne', whereas for adults, we call them 'spots' or 'blemishes'. Although both are caused by clogged pores and sebum build-up, the terminology differs depending on age.

Today, I’d like to delve into the differences between these two.

1. Skin Issues from Hormonal Imbalance During Adolescence

Primary Causes
During adolescence, hormonal growth spurts cause an increase in sex hormones like oestrogen and testosterone. These rapid hormonal changes stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to increased sebum production and making the skin more prone to breakouts, especially acne.

Characteristics of Skin Problems

• Excess sebum production leads to clogged pores, resulting in acne, particularly around the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

• Oxidised sebum can blacken pores, making them more noticeable.

• Hormonal balance during adolescence is often unstable, leading to periodic skin problems.

Tips for Care

• Aim for skincare with low oil content and good moisturising effects.

• Daily cleansing and maintaining hygiene are crucial.

• Avoid overly intensive or harsh skincare until hormonal balance stabilises.

2. Skin Issues from Hormonal Imbalance During Menopause

Primary Causes
As women approach menopause, oestrogen (a key female hormone) levels decline. Oestrogen helps maintain skin elasticity and moisture, so a decrease can lead to dry skin, reduced firmness, and lowered barrier function, making the skin more susceptible to irritation.

Characteristics of Skin Problems

• Reduced elasticity and dryness can make wrinkles and sagging more noticeable.

• Thinner skin becomes more sensitive to external irritants.

• Lowered barrier function may cause redness and itching.

Tips for Care

• Use skincare containing high-moisture ingredients, such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid.

• Incorporate anti-oxidants and anti-ageing elements into your skincare.

• Improving diet and lifestyle is important too, with a focus on foods rich in vitamins and minerals.

Key Points of Difference and Care Between Adolescence and Menopause

The main cause of adolescent skin problems is "excess sebum clogging pores", whereas for menopausal skin issues, "dryness and decreased barrier function" are the main culprits. Thus, in adolescence, focusing on removing excess sebum, and in menopause, focusing on hydration and strengthening the skin barrier, can be effective.

In both cases, as hormonal imbalances are inevitable, it’s essential to adopt gentle and skin-friendly skincare routines. Consulting a specialist when needed can also be helpful.

 

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I myself noticed reduced roughness and fewer blemishes after switching to hormone-sensitive skincare. However, lately, I’ve started developing occasional spots under my nose. Blemishes appear in specific areas for certain reasons, so I looked into what might cause spots under the nose.

Main Causes of Blemishes Under the Nose

• Hormonal Imbalance: The area under the nose is particularly sensitive to hormonal changes. Hormonal shifts, especially before menstruation, during adolescence, or in menopause, can lead to increased sebum production, making the area prone to blemishes.

• Diet: A diet high in fats or sugars can increase sebum production, clogging the pores under the nose. Additionally, strain on the digestive system can make spots around the nose more likely.

• Stress: Stress disrupts hormonal balance and also affects the autonomic nervous system, increasing sebum production. This often causes blemishes around the mouth and under the nose.

• Lifestyle Disruptions: Lack of sleep and irregular routines affect hormones and sebum production, making spots under the nose more likely. Late nights and insufficient sleep can disrupt skin turnover, causing clogged pores.

• Hygiene: The area under the nose is often touched unconsciously. This can lead to bacteria growth and, in turn, inflammation.

Tips for Care

• Cleansing and Moisturising: Proper cleansing and moisturising can remove sebum and dirt, helping to prevent clogged pores.

• Dietary Adjustments: Focus on a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, while limiting fats and sugars.

• Stress Management: Include activities like exercise and relaxation to keep stress in check.

• Hygiene: Avoid touching your face with your hands as much as possible.

Taking steps to manage hormonal balance and stress, as well as ensuring overall health, boils down to the basics: eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising regularly.

In my case, I avoid oily and animal-based foods, so I’ll focus on monitoring my sugar intake. I could also use more sleep. As for exercise, I aim to include 30 minutes of strength training or stretching each day. I plan to share videos on this soon, so please keep an eye out if you'd like some inspiration.

 

If you’re curious about the reasons for blemishes on other areas of the face, please leave a comment or message me on LINE, and I’ll research and respond!