Question 1:

I break out much worse the week before my period—what can I do to stop the hormonal insanity?

We’ve all noticed the side effects of the monthly cycle—whether your main complaint is PMS, skin problems, or weight gain, there are things you can do to keep yourself in balance during the month so that symptoms don’t have to bother you as much. Strive for balance all month long, and those hormonal breakouts (i.e. on your chin) will be less severe.

• For one, try to limit the amount of hormones you consume, whether through dairy or meat products. Many women find that hormones in foods can aggravate their own hormones, contributing to monthly outbreaks. Almost all grocery stores stock organic or hormone free meat and dairy products now, so give them a try and see if it makes a difference.



• Get some exercise. Your hormones (and your brain) will stay more balanced in general if you set up (and stick with) a regular exercise routine. Time spent outdoors in the sun (with sunscreen, of course!) will also help your body regulate itself. The goal is for you to be as healthy as possible, and any enjoyable activity that gets your body moving will contribute to that.



• Reduce your sugar intake. I know, this is a hard one for everyone, but sugar also contributes to making your hormones get out of whack, which in turn can lead to breakouts. Too much sugar puts a burden on your system, and the older you are, the less of it you can handle. Cut it out little by little so that it doesn’t hurt as much. While you’re at it, you might also want to cut out white flour, rice, and all processed foods. Caffeine might also be exacerbating your breakouts.



• Reduce stress. High stress levels make cortisol high which leads to acne. The sugar and especially the caffeine don’t help the cortisol levels.

These little changes will go a long way toward putting you back into balance and curtailing hormonal breakouts. If nothing is working, be sure to ask your doctor for help!

Question 2:

Is it ever okay to pop my pimples? I only do it every once in awhile, and it doesn’t seem like that big a deal.

Sorry, the answer is still no. I can’t tell you how many patients I see with out of control pimples who were “just doing it once in a while.”

Popping your pimples is unsanitary, spreads bacteria (which can contribute to more breakouts in the surrounding area), and can lead to scarring. Try a hot compress or a heat-based product like the Zeno Hot Spot to kill the bacteria, and if you absolutely cannot help yourself, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching a blemish, and to use the least amount of pressure possible.

Dr. Sylvia is the scientific and medical director for Cutis Medical Laser Clinics, a treatment centre focused on providing evidence-based aesthetic treatments. Cutis provides only MOH category A treatments, and uses only FDA-approved laser and light equipment. Dr. Sylvia was trained in Harvard University in the United States and is an US-board certified physician. Dr. Sylvia is also an internationally recognized expert in clinical research and health policy, and is a frequent speaker at international conventions.