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Updated
Reading 2 min.
in collaboration with
Dr Odile Bagot (Gynecologist-obstetrician)
Medical validation:
October 21, 2023
Every month, it’s the same thing: pimples resurface on your face. But how can we explain their appearance? And how to avoid these imperfections? Response from Dr Odile Bagot, gynecologist.
A few days before the arrival of menstruation, they show up. These are menstrual pimples or cysts, often located around the chin, mouth or jaw. But where do these famous “period buttons” come from? Can we avoid them? How to get rid of it? Explanations from our expert.
Overproduction of sebum during periods
Many women see small pimples appear during their periods.
An inconvenience, which is not the result of chance: a few days before the period, the level of progesterone and testosterone increases significantly in the body. However, these two hormones stimulate the production of sebum, an oily substance evacuated through the pores of the skin.
This excess sebum, mixed with dead skin and bacteria, will then cause an inflammatory reaction, in other words the formation of a pimple.
In terms of risk areas, the forehead, nose, nasolabial folds and chin are particularly affected. And for good reason: they are the most seborrheic places on the face.
But as Dr Bagot is keen to point out, not all women are affected. The method of contraception has a great influence on the skin and its imperfections:
“Some women will not have spots during their period… because the pill tends to reduce acne. This is due to the fact that ovulation is blocked. On the other hand, certain progestins have a slightly androgenic effect (male hormone), which therefore gives rise to spots. It all depends on contraception.”
First of all, by not touching the buttons. By crushing them, we actually help to propagate inflammation.
Then, anti-sebum treatments can be used a few days before menstruation.
A light fruit acid peel can also be done just before the arrival of your period. It will boost the skin’s metabolism and promote its natural regeneration, which will prevent sebum from accumulating in the pores.
As the skin is generally more sensitive during periods, you will also need to remember to moisturize it morning and evening with appropriate care.
Slide: 10 natural remedies for painful periods