How to stop breakouts before they come?

Aug 13, 2016

Hannah E.

Hi! So I generally have clear skin, but around that time of the month I get really bad cysts. How do I stop them before they come? I already have medication prescribed by my dermatologist (that works amazingly the rest of the month), and I wash my face twice a day! Any ideas? I'm really nervous because I'll be moving into college next week and I want to have good skin then. Thanks in advance for you suggestions/tips!!

Aug 13, 2016

Alexis C.

Since you're getting it during your time of the month that means the breakouts are hormonal and there's not much you can do about that, unfortunately.

Aug 13, 2016

Delara g.

I get hormonal breakouts too, I do wash, tone and moisturise my skin every day. I don't wear makeup and I'm on the pill yet I still get breakouts. I agree with alexis, you can't do anything to stop them when your getting your period.

Aug 13, 2016

Leuca S.

What medication are you using from your derm?

Aug 13, 2016

Kathleen K.

I would say the break outs are hormornal and if that's the case, Unfortunately there is not much you can do.

Aug 13, 2016

Hannah E.

I'm on Retin-A and the pill.. Ugh it's so frustrating lol.

Aug 13, 2016

Hannah E.

But thank you everyone! ❤️

Aug 13, 2016

Roz X.

Hannah, there may be a few other options and things going on.

If you are developing the tell-tale, deep bumps that strike during that time of month, then it most likely is hormonal acne. This type of acne can leave behind scarring and so while your Retin A will help, I'd recommend addressing this from a broader angle, as a health issue.

You may benefit from an antibiotic regimen. Initially, a high dose is prescribed and then, as the body adjusts, a lower dose is administered; with time you are tapered off. It's common to pair this with a retinoid treatment, such as Retin-A. I"d definitely speak to whoever gave you the Retin-A about that.

I'd additionally bring a BHA into the fold. Paula's Choice has a BHA gel that would be an excellent fit to address this issue. Investing in a hydrating, soothing toner will also make a difference. Paula's Choice Recovery toner is hydrating and soothing simultaneously. I would recommend a Glycolic Toner, but with Retin-A, that could just bring on serious dryness. The toner in this instance would be to replenish skin's barrier and actively calm skin so it can repair itself.

I'd also speak my Derm or Dr. about trying Niancinamide oral tablets. Of course, they would be more familiar with your health and needs, but under a Dr.'s guidance, they can sometimes help combat the bacteria that brings on breakouts of this nature. Amping up the B in your diet may also prove of help. (Topically as well, it's tremendous for the skin.)

You could possibly be experiencing clogging of hair follicles, even if only during certain times of the month. Those prone to both types of situations need to watch they avoid potential triggers. I'd take a look at my ingredients and avoid products on my complexion that contain mineral oil, coconut oil, waxes, and anything too rich or emollient. Because Retin-A can bring on dryness, it's also a great idea to avoid drying alcohols, such as Alcohol SD, denatured Alcohol, Isopropyl, etc. Instead, look for fatty alcohols that will benefit your skin. Steer clear of fragrance and essential oils, such as lavender in your skincare. These can further irritate deeper layers of the skin, worsening acne..even if you see no initial surface reaction.

You want to counter Retin-A with light layers of hydration to keep skin's moisture barrier healthy. Look for hydrating washes that are gentle and don't strip skin, such as CeraVe. I'd alternate between a hydrating wash and one with Salicylic Acid or Tea Tree in it.
Cerave's PM Moisturizer is also a nice option, even for daytime and it contains Ceramides and Hyaluronic acid. This will draw moisture to the skin and help it actively retain it. There is a $2 off coupon on their website.

Green Tea reduces inflammation and is naturally anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. I'd recommend not only drinking it, but making a rinse for your face. You can steep a bag or two in a cup of hot water until cool. When cooled, splash your clean face with the tea; I like to sometimes use a washcloth and soak up the tea, letting it rest on my face for a few minutes. Pulling back on hormone-laden meat and dairy during those times may also help. Id try reducing my intake to see if that makes a difference.

I'd avoid harsh scrubs as they won't help and can actually worsen your situation. You would definitely benefit from a sonic cleanser of some sort with a very gentle head.
If you are using a thick foundation or a primer that is oil based, I'd advise against and opt for a water-based, lightweight foundation and water-based primer. Setting sprays are very high in alcohol and so I'd also help keep my skin calm by avoiding those, especially during breakouts.

Lastly, since you are using a Retinoid and possibly beginning an antibiotic/BHA regimen, I cannot stress enough the importance of using a Broad Spectrum Sunscreen. Both Paula's Choice and EltaMd have ones I enjoy and that will not irritate your skin, even if broken out.

Hope that helps.

Aug 14, 2016

Leuca S.

RetinA can definitely help with acne, but its main benefit in that regard is regulating pore function. However, there's not much it can do vs hormonal acne by itself. In order to minimize the visible effects of your hormonal acne, it may be worth starting a more intensive skincare regiment. Rozberry is definitely correct in suggesting a BHA (salicylic acid product), and Paula's Choice makes my very favorite formulations. They also make great benzoyl peroxide products, which you can place on targeted areas if you know that's the only place you'll break out. I actually put it on as a sort of mask every night for about a half hour, and on the rare occasion I feel a spot coming on I'll apply a targeted amount to leave on overnight.

I use fresh-brewed green tea as a toner a few times a week. I'll save a little of what I've prepared in the morning to use in my daytime routine.

Recently, I started with raw, unfiltered honey mixed in with my serum/moisturizer each night. I can say it's made a remarkable difference in my skin's overall sensitivity, and has definitely made an improvement in the acne department; combined with the rest of my routine I hardly ever even get small spots anymore. Keep in mind I'm naturally oily and quite acne prone, with fairly sensitive skin. Honey (at least raw and unfiltered honey) is absolutely fantastic for your skin, and carries a very low risk of exacerbating acne, as it's an antibacterial/humectant all in one. It carries potent antioxidant properties and is a natural antiinflammatory agent. 

Aug 15, 2016

Hannah E.

Rozberry and Leuca, thank you so much for your suggestions! I'm going to the derm tomorrow so I will definitely bring up these options. Ill also try out washing my face with green tea and using honey :)

Aug 15, 2016

Hannah E.

Seriously it's so sweet of you guys to take the time out of your day to help me. Thanks!