Menopausal Acne ?

[creativz]

I’m mid 40’s and have been getting what appears to be cystic acne and spots from ingrown hairs on my jawline and chin for the past couple of years, I never had many spots when I was younger, but now I rarely have days without inflamed hard swollen lumps under the skin, they’re impossible to squeeze as I’ve painfully discovered ! I’m wondering if it may be a symptom of being pre-menopausal ? Will it ease off as things develop ? Any advice or recommendations appreciated. (I don’t wear makeup, cleanse using micellar water, sometimes use atopic moisturisers as I have mild eczema and patchy areas of dry skin, I also suffer from urticaria and take antihistamines daily.) Thanks !

[Dr Rachel Abbott]

Thank you for sharing your experience.

Unfortunately, acne can be associated with changes in hormones around the menopause. This type of acne often occurs around the jawline. Avoiding make-up and greasy moisturisers (non-comedogenic) together with using cleansers containing salicylic acid can be helpful. However, if you are experiencing lumps (nodules) then I suggest you arrange to see your GP or a dermatologist to discuss treatments which are prescription only. This is particularly important if you have any scars resulting from your acne.

With best wishes,

Rachel