Why do your hormones make you smell more and have acne if it’s getting us ready for our periods which have nothing to do with those things?

Okay, so it sounds like you're wondering why funky smells and pimples show up when you're getting ready for your period, since they don't seem like they're related. That's a super good question! It's all about your hormones, and they're doing a lot more than just getting your body ready to bleed.

Your hormones, especially these things called androgens, start to really get going during puberty. Androgens tell your body to do a bunch of stuff, like grow hair where it never grew before, make your voice change a little, and yep, they also tell your skin to make more oil. More oil can clog up your pores and cause acne, which feels so unfair, I know. It also mixes with bacteria on your skin, and that can make you smell more.

Your period is just one part of your whole cycle, and all these body changes are happening because your hormones are prepping your body for big kid stuff. It's not just about periods, but about your whole body maturing. It's like your body is going through a giant upgrade, and sometimes the side effects are a bit annoying. But it's totally normal and everyone goes through it!

To help with the smells, showers are your best friend, and maybe an antiperspirant if you're into that. For acne, just keep your face clean with a gentle cleanser, and try not to pick at anything because that can make it worse. If it gets really bad, tell a grown-up so they can help you find something that actually works.