5 Skincare Ingredients That Reduce Hormonal Acne

Dealing with hormonal acne can test your patience at different levels. Sometimes a product that seems to be working, flips, and then becomes useless. Certain foods randomly trigger and flare up the acne, and then they take permanent residency on your face. Although it's a bumpy ride, we’ve got a list of fool-proof ingredients that will surely subdue this long-standing problem. 

But, first, what is hormonal acne? 

When your hormones have taken a toss, and your body starts producing obscene amounts of testosterone, then the result is hormonal acne. It can be triggered due to stress, drastic lifestyle changes, or unhealthy diet. 

This hormone imbalance is causing your sebaceous glands to overproduce sebum, and you’ll most likely experience whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, papules, or nodules along with acne. While hormonal acne treatment involves lifestyle and dietary modifications, here are a few skincare ingredients that help. 

Ingredients that treat hormonal acne 

1. Benzoyl Peroxide 

A grave news for acne, benzoyl peroxide can uproot even the toughest of acne. It doesn’t even come second to antibiotics! High in antimicrobial properties, it zaps acne-causing bacteria and prevents them from popping up again. It’s quite a potent ingredient that comes in the concentration range of 2.5 to 10 percent. Today, you’ll also find cleansers, toners, and moisturizers that contain some amount of benzoyl peroxide in them. 

2. Cica 

Packed with amino acids, beta-carotene and vitamins, cica extracts help treat acne, oiliness and strengthens the skin barrier. It is super hydrating and drastically improves skin’s elasticity, which reduces the overall chances of acne to reoccur. At Quench, we’ve curated an entire zit-zapping range – Mama Cica that is powered with acne-targeting ingredients like tea tree oil, witch hazel leaf extracts, Korean ginseng and lotus root extracts. All these products contain a regal blend of actives and skin-soothing ingredients that work on acne, while improving skin’s health. 

3. Salicylic Acid 

No conversation about acne is ever complete without the mention of salicylic acid. A BHA (beta-hydroxy acid), it is a holy grail for acne, deep cleanses pores, exfoliates dead skin cells, minimizes pore size and reduces oiliness. So it is safe to say that it really does attack acne from all sides! Pack a punch with this ingredient with our Chialeader Zit Fix Serum that is formulated with only one intention – to make acne vanish like it was never there. The salicylic acid serum also has antiseptic properties that prevent breakouts and keeps skin fresh! 

You can even treat your skin while you catch up on your beauty sleep with our Mon Cherry Overnight Peeling Mask that has a high amount of grapefruit in it. Grapefruit is a natural source of salicylic acid that also contains vitamin C, vitamin A and is packed with antioxidant rich beta carotene. Plus, it contains licorice root, which is a medicinal herb packed with great anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. So, now you know that your acne does not stand a chance! 

4. Bakuchiol 

We all know by now that retinol is an all-rounder. It caters to literally every skin problem, which makes it cult-favourite. But you might also know that retinol can cause dryness, redness, and irritation if not used correctly. Which is where bakuchiol comes in. It is a plant-based retinol, but much gentler and offers the exact same benefits as retinol! So, even people with dry or sensitive skin can use it without a worry. Include our Matcha Better Anti-Shine Moisturizer which has bakuchiol, matcha green tea and cica that work in synergy to reduce acne. 

5. Glycolic Acid 

A gentle acid, which is hard-hitting on acne, glycolic acid is an AHA that easily penetrates the skin to exfoliate and clear pores of dead skin cells and debris, revealing fresh, clear skin. Our Mama Cica Instabright Peel Pads are a fuss-free exfoliating solution that contain cica, lotus root, and of course glycolic acid that sweep away dirt, grime, and sebum that has accumulated in pores, giving your skin its natural glow back. It is specially designed to address skin concerns like mild hormonal acne, open pores, blemishes and breakouts. It is mild enough to be used every day, and we vouch that with each passing day, you’ll see your acne make a silent exit. 

In addition to these ingredients, it is also important to note that hormonal acne requires more than topical remedies. Consume foods that can re-balance hormones, such as fish, soy products, spinach, nuts, flaxseeds, fresh fruits, and probiotic yogurts. 

Get ready to knock-off hormonal acne with these sure-shot remedies!