How the menstrual cycle affects hormonal acne for varying ethnicities

It’s no surprise that the menstrual cycle increases the prevalence of hormonal acne among women, however a new study out of Sweden suggests hormonal fluctuations may differ for women depending on their ethnicity. 

The study by Hrpovic N et al focussed on Caucasian and Asian women who suffer from hormonal acne, the results suggesting each ethnicity experiences differing effects.   

According to the data, the skin of Chinese women was more hydrated, with the level of hydration remaining unchanged between menstrual phases. The skin barrier improved in the follicular phase (day 1-13 of their cycle) compared with the luteal phase (day 15-28). 

When it came to Caucasian women, the study found that their skin hydration levels were reduced in the follicular phase compared to the luteal phase, and there was no difference in skin barrier health between these two cycle phases. 

It was concluded that for women, the skin barrier can be affected by the hormone estrogen, with acne most likely peaking during the luteal phase of the menstruation cycle. 

The research team acknowledged that further investigation was needed, but highlighted that when treating acne, it was important to focus on strengthening the skin barrier. 

According to All About Acne expert, Dr JoAnn See this study would encourage medical practitioners to give more consideration to a woman’s ethnicity when treating acne, and the important role protecting the skin barrier plays in skin health for acne-prone hormonal skin among females.

Reference: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2022, July, 7; 1-10.