Unfortunately, skin problems are not something limited to adolescence. Breakouts can plague us well into adulthood. Adult acne may be lifestyle related, but may also be associated with hormonal fluctuations and conditions such as poly-cystic ovarian syndrome. Being time poor and chronically stressed may put our adrenal glands into overdrive, which may increase the oil flow from our skin follicles. This sets the stage for congestion in the form of blackheads, pimples and pustules. Once started, the cycle can be self-perpetuating. Seeking advice regarding what skin treatments to use is important, as products used to conceal imperfections may aggravate the problem spots rather than aiding them to heal or normalise.

Help your skin help you

1. Don’t squeeze pimples! Squeezing will most likely cause more damage by prolonging healing time, increasing the likelihood of scarring and the incidence of a pimple reoccurring in the same place. Consider applying a spot treatment product instead.

2. Eat a low GI diet. There is evidence to suggest that regular consumption of high GI foods elevates insulin production, increases sebum (oil) production and may be associated with hormonal changes, all of which contribute to acne.

3. Take time to decompress and relax, which will help keep stress hormones in balance. Additionally, having some time to focus on yourself can help you review your diet and your skin routine.

4. Have an appropriate skin routine in place. At a minimum, cleanse and moisturise twice a day. Unless you’ve been advised against it, regularly exfoliating will also help promote a clear complexion. Blemishes are often the result of excess dead skin cells binding with oil and debris to clog follicles. Exfoliating will help shed the old skin cells and promote the generation of fresh, new cells.

5. If your breakout levels are closely linked to your menstrual cycle, you may benefit from hormonal intervention in the form of the oral contraceptive pill.

At GAALS we are able to provide advice for conditions such as poly-cystic ovarian syndrome and can make recommendations about who to consult regarding your skin problems. If you have a gynaecological problem or would like an appointment, please call us on 1300 242 257 or click Contact on our web page.

If you have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) you are not alone. This condition affects between 1 in 10 and 1 in 20 women of reproductive age. The impact may be far reaching, and may influence emotional state, body weight and relationships.

What is Polycystic ovarian syndrome?
The diagram below represents the contributing factors:

Menstrual dysfunction includes irregular or infrequent periods.
Hyperandrogenism includes bad acne or body hair growth in abnormal distributions.
Polycystic ovaries may be detected on pelvic ultrasound.

To be diagnosed with PCOS, you may not necessarily have all these features, but symptoms from at least two categories must be present.

How is PCOS diagnosed?
Diagnosis will usually follow a discussion of symptoms and medical history with your doctor, ultrasound imaging as well as blood tests.

Can it be treated?
Unfortunately there is no quick fix for this condition. The key to managing PCOS is to make lifestyle changes by eating healthily and moderately and regular exercise. Weight loss may also reduce the risk of associated diseases like diabetes.

Hormone therapy such as the oral contraceptive pill may also assist in the management of PCOS.

At GAALS, we can help patients with PCOS and provide advice to manage this condition. If you have a gynaecological concern and would like an appointment, please call us on 1300 242 257 or click Contact on our website.