Breakouts on my chin every time before my period—should I change my routine that week?
It’s really common to hear about recurring breakouts on the chin and around the mouth during the week of hormonal changes. If they show up around the same time every month, many people try slightly changing their routine just for that week.
Example routine for that week
Evening
- Gentle cleanser
- Soothing toner
- A small amount of BHA only on breakout areas
- Light moisturizer
Starting a new product that week can make it hard to figure out the cause.
Poll
What do you do that week?
- Keep my usual routine
- Switch to a soothing-focused routine
- Add only a spot treatment
- See a dermatologist
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If the timing is fairly consistent, that week I’d recommend reducing irritation and sticking to conservative spot care rather than adding a bunch of products. Keep cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection as usual, and take a break from products that could compound irritation, such as scrubs, new exfoliating acids, or strong retinoids. If you’re already using ingredients that work well for you, you don’t need to stop everything.
For pimples, you can apply a hydrocolloid patch or try using a spot treatment like benzoyl peroxide on a small area, following the product directions. If it’s your first time using it or your skin is prone to sensitivity, test it on a small area first, and stop if it stings or becomes red. If your chin breakouts are deep and painful, leave scars, or repeatedly affect your daily life, it’s better to consult a dermatologist rather than make your routine more aggressive.
What do you change that week, and what do you leave as is?
If hormonal breakouts keep recurring, what kind of consultation do people usually get at a dermatologist’s office?
Usually, they first ask when the breakouts started, when during your cycle they recur, whether they are deep or painful or leave scars, and what products you currently use or medications you take, then examine your skin. Next, depending on the pattern of comedones and inflammation, they explain options such as topical medication or other treatments. If there is a clear link to your menstrual cycle, they can also discuss whether a hormone-related prescription is appropriate. Which approach is right depends on factors such as your medical history and the possibility of pregnancy, so it needs to be decided during a consultation. Keeping a simple record of photos, your menstrual cycle, and the products you use for about 2–3 weeks before your visit can make it easier to explain the pattern. If you have deep, painful lesions or scarring, or the breakouts keep bothering you, consider consulting a dermatologist.