Get a Glowing Skin Naturally: 12 Best Herbs for Hormonal Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Various factors, such as hormonal changes, certain medications, diet, and stress, can cause it. Hormonal acne, in particular, is often triggered by fluctuations in androgen hormones, such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil and clog the pores.
Hormonal acne usually occurs around the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks. It tends to flare up during certain times of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, or when using hormonal birth control methods. It can also be influenced by stress, diet, and lifestyle factors.
Major symptoms of hormonal acne:
- Pimples: These are raised bumps on the skin that can be red, pink, or white.
- Blackheads: These are small, black, or dark-colored bumps that appear on the surface of the skin.
- Whiteheads: These are small, white, or flesh-colored bumps that appear on the surface of the skin.
- Cysts: These are large, pus-filled bumps that can be painful and inflamed.
- Nodules: These are deep, painful bumps located beneath the skin’s surface.
While there are many conventional treatments for hormonal acne, such as birth control pills, antibiotics, or topical creams, some people prefer to use natural remedies that can help balance their hormones and clear their skin without harsh side effects.
Herbs have been used for centuries to treat various health conditions, including hormonal imbalances and skin problems. Some herbs have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, or hormone-regulating properties that can benefit people with hormonal acne.
Read on to discover 12 best herbs for hormonal acne and getting glowing skin naturally!
1. Licorice root
Licorice is a fantastic ingredient for treating various skin conditions. Licorice root, in particular, is an effective herbal remedy to balance hormonal levels and reduce acne. It contains active compounds such as glycyrrhizin, which helps regulate hormones and reduce inflammation associated with hormonal acne.
Licorice is a fantastic alternative to BPO (benzoyl peroxide) for skin that is more sensitive because it has been proven to destroy the germs that cause acne and regulate oil production in the skin. Most skin care serums contain licorice for acne-prone skin.
Licorice root can be consumed in supplement form or steeped as a tea – either way, it’s an excellent way to fight off breakouts.
2. Chaste berry
Vitex Agnus-castus, also known as Chaste berry, is another excellent herb used to treat women’s hormonal problems and imbalances. It is also used in treating hormonal acne. It’s an adaptogen that helps to balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and even curb oil production. Chaste berry works by stimulating and normalizing the pituitary glands, which regulate the body’s balance of estrogen and progesterone.
It can be taken in supplement form or cooked into dishes as an herbal seasoning. Be sure to consult your doctor before use if you are taking any medications. It is also important to note that it is not advisable to use if you are nursing or pregnant.
3. Astragalus root
Astragalus root is one of the best herbs to add to your skincare routine if you suffer from hormonal acne. It has calming and antioxidant properties and is an adaptogen – helping the body regulate hormones, reduce stress, and lower inflammation. It effectively reduces acne and skin redness and improves the skin’s elasticity and moisture levels.
Astragalus is also known for its anti-aging properties, so you can add it to your routine to prevent or reduce wrinkles on your skin.
Astragalus root can be taken in supplement form or brewed as tea from its dried roots. You can also use the roots in smoothies or soups.
4. Green Tea
Green tea is renowned for its many health and skin benefits, including its ability to clear acne. An antioxidant powerhouse, green tea helps promote wound healing, reduce inflammation, and protect against UV damage. It also contains a polyphenol called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) that helps inhibit sebum’s overproduction, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
Green tea also contains catechins, plant-based compounds with antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties. They also can get rid of free radicals.
No specific dosage is recommended for taking or using green tea for your skin, so feel free to experiment with the best approach.
5. Burdock Root
Burdock root is an herb known to be effective in treating skin issues like eczema and acne. It’s high in prebiotic inulin, which helps balance hormones and regulate sebum production. It also provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Burdock root can be consumed as a tea, taken as a supplement, or applied topically as a tincture, face wash, or cream. You can also search online for creative recipes incorporating burdock root into your diet.
6. Red Clover
Red clover is another herb that can help balance hormones and clear acne. It contains compounds called isoflavones, which are similar in structure to estrogen. These compounds can help regulate estrogen levels, which can help reduce acne breakouts. Furthermore, molybdenum, a mineral component found in red clover, aids in the removal of nitrogenous waste that may result in skin issues.
Red clover is available in various forms, including capsules, teas, and tinctures. Red clover can also be eaten in salads. It is important to note that it may take several months of consistent use to see the full benefits of this herb.
7. Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a herb traditionally used to treat prostate issues in men. However, it can also help balance hormones in women. It works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can help reduce acne breakouts. Saw palmetto extracts can also reduce androgen levels, controlling contributing factors for acne.
Saw palmetto is available in various forms, including capsules, teas, and tinctures. It is important to note that it may interact with certain medications, including hormonal birth control, so it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using this herb.
8. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties can help reduce inflammation in the body and improve skin health, which can help reduce acne breakouts. Turmeric is also known to get rid of acne-causing bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes
Turmeric can be taken in various ways to help treat acne, including; drinking turmeric tea, cooking with it, and taking it as a supplement. It is important to note that it may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, so it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using this herb.
Before using turmeric face masks, seeing a dermatologist for possible allergic reactions to curcumin is crucial.
9. Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
Spearmint is a common herb that has a refreshing flavor and aroma. It has been used for digestive issues such as nausea, indigestion, gas, and irritable bowel syndrome. Spearmint may also help with hormonal acne by lowering androgen levels. Androgens are male hormones that can stimulate oil production and inflammation in the skin. Spearmint may reduce androgen levels by inhibiting 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into its more potent form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is responsible for triggering acne lesions in the skin.
Spearmint is commonly taken in the form of tea. However, it is important to note that it may work for selective individuals based on their reaction to the hormones.
10. Basil
Basil is a fragrant herb used for centuries for its medicinal and culinary benefits. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help reduce swelling and redness of acne lesions and prevent infection. It also has astringent properties that help tighten pores and control oil production.
Basil is also considered a natural antiseptic; thus, it helps clear up clogged pores and remove dead cells. This helps in treating and preventing the possibility of acne.
To use basil for acne, make a simple toner by steeping fresh or dried basil leaves in boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and let it cool down before applying it to your face with a cotton pad. Add a few drops of basil essential oil to your moisturizer or carrier oil for extra benefits.
11. Cajeput
Cajeput is a tea tree growing in Southeast Asia and Australia. It has similar properties to tea tree oil but with a milder scent. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation associated with acne. It also helps balance sebum production and unclog pores.
To use cajeput for acne, dilute it with a carrier oil such as jojoba or almond oil before applying it directly to your pimples with a cotton swab. You can add a few drops of cajeput essential oil to your cleanser or toner for daily use.
12. Lavender
Lavender is one of the most popular herbs for its soothing aroma and calming effects on the mind and body. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help heal acne lesions faster and prevent scarring. It also helps regulate hormones by reducing stress levels which can trigger hormonal imbalances.
To use lavender for acne, you can make a relaxing facial steam by adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 10 minutes, letting it open up your pores. You can also apply lavender essential oil diluted with a carrier oil directly to your pimples or add it to your bath water for an overall soothing effect.
What are some of the common myths about acne?
- Myth: Acne is caused by poor hygiene. Fact: While it is important to keep the skin clean, acne is not caused by dirty skin.
- Myth: Eating greasy foods causes acne. Fact: While a diet high in greasy or fatty foods can contribute to acne, it is not the sole cause.
- Myth: Acne is only a problem for teenagers. Fact: Acne can affect people of all ages, including adults.
- Myth: Sun exposure can cure acne. Fact: While sun exposure may temporarily improve the appearance of acne, it can also damage the skin and worsen acne in the long run.
When should you visit a doctor for hormonal acne?
If you’ve been trying to eliminate your acne with self-care remedies, but it’s not working, then it is time to see a doctor! Your primary care doctor can prescribe stronger medications that might do the trick. And suppose your acne is really stubborn or severe. In that case, you might consider seeing a dermatologist or pediatric dermatologist specializing in treating skin issues.
Many women deal with acne that lasts for years, with breakouts often happening right before their period. But if you’re taking contraceptives, you might have an easier time since this type of acne tends to clear up on its own in women who use them.
Don’t let acne get you down! If you’re struggling to find a solution, talk to your doctor or a specialist who can help you figure out the best course of action.
Takeaway
These are some of the best herbs to balance hormones & clear acne naturally. However, before using any herbal remedies, it is important to consult with your doctor or dermatologist first, especially if you have any medical conditions or allergies or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, be aware of possible side effects or interactions with other medications or supplements you may be taking.