4 Natural Ways To Prevent Breakouts During Periods

Most women dread that time of the month—not just because of the mood swings and painful cramps, but also because of the unexpected skin troubles that often come with it.

Ever noticed those annoying breakouts popping up around your period? You’re not alone. Many women deal with what's known as PMS acne—those pesky pimples that show up right before or during menstruation and magically vanish afterward.

Hormonal fluctuations are a constant in a woman’s body, thanks to the ongoing changes it goes through. The two key hormones involved are estrogen and testosterone.

Typically, a woman’s menstrual cycle lasts between 21 to 24 days. About 14 days after your period, estrogen levels peak. As they begin to dip, testosterone levels rise—triggering the skin issues we dread. This hormone ramps up sebum production by overstimulating the oil glands, making skin puffier and pores tighter, which leads to clogged pores and, ultimately, breakouts.

Because this hormonal shift happens just before your period begins, that’s exactly when you’re likely to experience those breakouts.

In fact, about 63% of women with acne report that it flares up before their period—and this pattern can continue well into the late 30s or early 40s. Sadly, we can’t stop what’s going on inside our bodies or take full control of our hormones.

But the good news? There are ways to manage and reduce PMS acne.

# Birth Control Pills

If you consult a dermatologist for PMS-related acne, one of the most common recommendations is birth control pills. These are considered one of the most effective treatments for hormonal breakouts. They work by boosting estrogen levels, which in turn keeps testosterone in check—reducing the chances of acne flare-ups.

Some types of birth control pills also help slow down oil production in the skin. However, they do come with potential side effects. It's important never to self-medicate or use over-the-counter birth control pills without a prescription. A qualified doctor will assess your condition and prescribe what suits you best.

Also, be patient—it can take several months before you start seeing noticeable improvements.

# Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

For women who don’t respond well to birth control pills, potassium-sparing diuretics may be prescribed. These help lower testosterone levels, which can reduce acne.

However, these medications aren't suitable for everyone. They can lead to side effects such as irregular periods, breast tenderness, and fatigue. Always consult your doctor before considering this option.

# Supplements

Sometimes, acne is triggered by nutritional deficiencies. In such cases, dietary supplements can help. Zinc, amino acids, and L-carnitine are known to support skin health and may help prevent breakouts. In certain situations, dermatologists may also prescribe low-dose antibiotics.

It’s essential to get professional guidance before starting any supplement or medication.

# Natural Remedies

- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can support your skin’s natural detox process. Since the skin is a major detoxifying organ, dehydration can interfere with its ability to flush out toxins, potentially leading to breakouts.

- Watch Your Diet: Avoid greasy or oily foods, especially in the days leading up to your period. These can increase sebum production and contribute to acne.

- Gentle Skincare: Wash your face twice daily using a cleanser formulated for oily or acne-prone skin. Avoid heavy makeup and oil-based cosmetics. Look for products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can help keep acne under control.

- Eat Clean: Load up on fresh fruits and vegetables. Try reducing your intake of dairy products, especially in the days before your period, as they can sometimes trigger breakouts.