Hormonal Acne Black Skin
Last summer I had a really bad breakout on my face. There were cystic and papules pimples around my chin, cheeks and temples. I’ve always had problem -acneic skin, but it has aired on the side of mild to medium severity. So when I’d wake up to 15-20 pimples on my face it was super frustrating. Over the past couple years I’d found a routine that kept my breakouts under control , but these pimples were not responding to my regular routine. They came quick and were painful.
I finally gave in and went to a dermatologist for the first time and the appointment was 1 minute long. The doctor looked at my skin, took a photo and prescribed an antibiotic and hormone blocker. No questions were asked. I asked about the side effects, because I rarely take medication –not even for a headache. She said “low blood pressure. “
I took the meds, and it was the worse mistake. Within 3 days of taking those meds I had a bad reaction. I broke out in hives, experienced nausea, fatigue and body aches. I Immediately stopped taking the meds and went into research mode, and overtime found a combination of remedies and products that stopped my hormonal acne. I have to disclaim with, what works for me may not work for you, nonetheless I’ve curated a list of products that worked together to clear my skin.
Manuka Honey
Manuka Honey is high in antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, I use Manuka honey in a facial mask as well as an on the spot treatment to target break outs. For the mask I mix the honey, Tumeric, Bentonite clay and water, and I use at least 2-3 times a week. Take a cotton swab, dip in honey and place on individual pimples throughout the day–of course only recommended if you’re staying in. The honey was extremely helpful in calming redness and controlling inflammation.
Tumeric
I’ve used Turmeric only combined with other remedies like Manuka Honey and Bentonite Clay. Turmeric like Manuka Honey is a high anti-flammatory agent and rich in antioxidants. It also acts as a light exfoliant to slough off dead skin cells. I find that it not only worked to tackle acne, but leaves my skin feeling soft and glowy after use. 100% natural Turmeric from your local market seasoning aisle will do the trick.
Probiotic Supplements
When I took a trip to the dermatologists I was prescribed with antibiotics, which did not have great affects. But I figure there was a reason the doctor wanted to block the bad bacteria, so after thorough research, I decided to add Probiotics to my diet. They are a great way to renew the good bacteria in your body and maintain a healthy skin PH levels.
Rosehip Oil
I was hesitant at the idea of adding an oil to my skincare routine, because I have oily skin– but it did wonders to calm inflammation, smooth the texture and add that natural glow. The key here is choosing an oil that works well for your skin type. For oily skin Rosehip Oil, Sunflower Oil and Grapeseed oil are great additions to your skin care routine. If your skin is dry you’ll want to to lean on oils such as jojoba and almond oil. I still use Rosehip oil in my day to day routine, right after my serum and before the moisturizer.
Oil Cleansing
I use oil cleansing more so doing the winter months to unplug pores and nourish the skin. Oil cleansing happens typically before you go in with with a cleanser. I oil cleansed 3-4 times a week to calm the breakouts. The face massage alone promoted blood circulation, which gave my skin a glowy boost. Choose two oils to combine and massage your face for 1- 15 minutes. The longer you can go, the better.
Herbal/Zinc Supplements
When combatting hormonal acne you are fighting from the inside out. So we want to perfect your skin care routine and ensure your body is healthy. I started taking and still take, herbal supplements with Chlorella Algae, Dandelione, and Spirulina Algae to maintain a healthy gut. Everyone’s bodies are different, but food can be a trigger in hormonal changes, so supplements are a great way to bring balance to the gut. While I’m on the topic of nutrition, cutting out ingredients that spike hormone imbalance like soy also aided in treating my breakouts.
On The Spot Treatment
Using an On the Spot treatment is great if you’re needing faster results. Mario Badescu Buffering lotion is my favorite on the spot treatment. I use it whenever I have breakouts and like to apply it overnight. It worked especially well after a African Black Soap cleanse.
African Black Soap
African Black soap, Dudu Osan is my preference, is a great way to completely dry out break outs. I only use this method when I have 3 plus stubborn cystic pimples. I use a Cleansing brush and go to work. I did not do this every night 1-2 times is enough as this process dry out all impurities, so you don’t want to overdo it.
Cleansing Brush
I used a Sonic Clear Brush Anti-microbal everyday when my skin was breaking out. When I learned what was happening in the body and how it was triggering the skin, I made sure to tackle them both. Using a cleansing brush exfoliates the dead skin cells. It also helps to open the pores to remove bacteria. You can get the same effects using a chemical exfoliant, and it is usually preferred by Estheticians and Dermatologists.
Shea Butter
Okay this sounds crazy, but shea butter is a miracle moisturizer. You do not need to use it everyday. I only used it on nights when I did an African Black soap cleanse. African Black soap is very drying, so you must add that moisture back to your skin. Shea butter is non-cosmogenic, so it does not clog pores.
As mentioned this is what worked for me , everyone’s skin is different. You can choose how to integrate a few of these items into your routine. Trial and error is key during this process, but trust me when I tell you, you will find the solution that works best for you.
