Period Acne

Period acne is surprisingly common. Out of 10 women, up to 6 women will experience monthly acne flares or breakouts across all ethnicity. Scientists believe that hormones fluctuations during a woman’s cycle are the main culprit.

The human skin secretes an oil-like substance called sebum. Sebum is part of your skin defence system. It protects your skin from getting too dry and helps fight bacteria.

Your body, in preparation for menses, elevates the level of certain hormones that signal your skin to produce more sebum and a protein commonly found in hair follicles: keratin. These chains of events provide the optimum medium for acne-causing bacteria and contributed to closed pores, thus the acne flares or breakout.

What can you do?

· Remove your makeup and cleanse your skin daily with a gentle pH balanced cleanser.

· Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate. Doing a mask once a week is the best way to keep your pores clean and healthy.

· Drink enough water to enable your body to eliminate toxins more efficiently.

· Reduce your sugar intake especially if you already have acne as it may be a sign that your body is more susceptible to changes in hormone levels.

Ornelia Kane clay masks are the perfect addition to your regimen. The banana clay mask is gentle enough for dry skin, while the mango-papaya one is perfect to balance and regulate oily skin.

Be of good spirit, you are not your skin, and you are fabulous regardless.