Yes, many girls and women experience pimples or acne breakouts before their period. According to research, nearly half of all women (almost 50%) report their skin breaks out the week prior to their period.
This phenomenon is very common and is linked to hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle.
Here's a breakdown of why this happens:
- Hormonal Shifts: Estrogen and progesterone levels change throughout the menstrual cycle. Before a period, these hormones decline.
- Increased Sebum Production: Lower estrogen levels can lead to a relative increase in testosterone, which stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum (oil).
- Clogged Pores: Excess sebum, combined with dead skin cells, can clog pores.
- Inflammation: The clogged pores create an environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to inflammation and pimples.
Many women experience a worsening of existing acne or new breakouts during this pre-menstrual phase.
