Oxidation turns the head of the comedo black. If it is not open to the air, a whitehead is formed. At the time of puberty, there is a slight hormonal imbalance that is caused by a girl s ovaries and adrenal glands secreting extra androgens, thus increasing the ratio of androgens to estrogen. Stress is also a factor to be considered as during times of stress, our bodies release additional androgens. Acne can also be linked to a woman s menstrual cycle.
Some women find that they break out into pimples just before the onset of their menses.
Some women who have erratic menstrual cycles and do not ovulate properly often develop acne as a result of increased androgen production by the ovaries. The reason why some women feel that their skin improves after going on the birth control pill is because the estrogen in the pills reduces skin sensitivity to androgens. A high level of estrogen in pregnant women also makes for healthier skin. What you can do about it Avoid using oils, greasy moisturisers and cleansing creams, and other cosmetics. Wash your hands before applying makeup.