Concert Outfit Ideas For Any Type Of Music

concert outfit ideas

Struggling with what to wear to your next concert? Girl, we've got you. Concert fashion can get as intricate as Eras tour outfits, or as simple as a t-shirt and jeans. We aim to stun the lineup with a mix of both elevated and casual styles. Here's some concert outfit ideas for rock shows, country concerts, indie gigs, and more! We've even included some of the *best* concert essentials to make your night go smoothly.

What to Wear to a Rock Concert


For any concert outfit, you want to rock something not only cute, but comfortable, too. This first ensemble for what to wear to a rock concert is sure to show you a good time, all while stunning the crowds – simply stack an oversized denim jacket on top of a basic mini dress, and opt for some boots a *true* rockstar would wear. If your show date is later in the year, and it's cooler out, slip into some sheer black tights to tie the whole look together!

Shop The Look 🛍️

Levi's 90s Trucker Jacket ($98)
Los Angeles Apparel Heavy Rib Spaghetti Mini Dress ($44)
A New Day Black Sheer Tights ($9)
Jeffrey Campbell Juvenile-S Boots ($305)

What to Wear to a Country Concert


Give traditional country style a run for its money by giving your country concert outfit a bit of flair. These pieces are basic at their core, but can be easily dressed up and accessorized to meet their full potential. White cowgirl boots on the bottom are a *must* – as long as they can withstand multiple hours spent standing on your feet. A denim get-up like the tube dress above is the perfect one-and-done, but if you'd like a more casual take your Western-inspired style, a graphic t-shirt dress works literal wonders. Top your 'fit off with a cowboy hat, and you're set for the show!

Shop The Look 🛍️

Urban Outfitters Star Cowboy Hat ($60, was $90)
Reformation Nikki Strapless Bustier Denim Mini Dress ($178)
ASOS Design Rolled Sleeve T-Shirt Mini Dress ($36)
Dolce Vita Sula Boots ($100, was $240)

What to Wear to a Pop Concert

Since you're likely going to be boppin' all around for a pop concert, it's important to put function and comfort first when assembling an outfit idea. Donning some wide-leg jeans or bold, colorful pants like the ones above will help you achieve an energetic look fit for a pop set without really constricting your movement – plus, you get some *extra* pockets for your keeping phone and ID safe. The rest of the look is complete with an easy-to-wear baby tee! After that, step into a platform sneaker that can withstand the line waiting and floor dancing.

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Lisa Says Gah Alex Tee in Black Serpenti ($56, was $75)
Dear John Denim Cooper Super High Rise Wide Leg Pants in Georgia Peach ($65)
Rolla's Sailor Jeans in Bluebird ($149)
Adidas Gazelle Bold in Pink Glow Gum ($144)

What to Wear to an Indie Concert

Most indie shows flow at a slower pace than rock or pop concerts. Because of their more laid-back, chill vibe, sturdy sandals can work well for footwear. Long skirts like the gradient-covered one above eliminate the need for pants (yuck), wrapping you up in comfortable fabric. Opt for a light, trendy tank top and chunky jewelry and accessories, and you'll fit right in.

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Forever 21 Cropped Lace-Trim Tank Top ($10, was $13)
Blo_oberry Invisible Pearls Beaded Necklace ($65)
Reformation Layla Skirt in Blur ($158)
Dr. Martens Blaire Leather Slide Sandals ($110)

What to Wear to an Outdoor Concert

Whether you're jetting off to a music festival or attending a local outdoor concert series, you need to go into the situation knowing this summer is h-o-t hot. Dressing lightly will keep you from encountering outfit distractions so you can focus more on the music! An outfit idea like the one above that includes comfortable waterproof boots is a great place to start. Sporting a bodysuit over some denim shorts is way too easy (hello, summer uniform!), and topping your concert outfit off with a bucket hat will keep the beating sun off your head and face, making for a better outdoor experience over all. Don't forget SPF and sunnies!

Shop The Look 🛍️

Skims Fits Everybody Square Neck Bodysuit ($58)
Urban Outfitters Checkerboard Crochet Bucket Hat ($35)
American Eagle Dreamy Drape Denim Highest Waist Baggy Short ($40, was $50)
Hunter Original Chelsea Logo Backstrap Boot ($160)

Concert Essentials – What to Bring to a Concert?

Clear Stadium-Approved Fanny Pack ($15)

Even if your concert venue doesn't have explicit rules about what you can bring in, it's best to come prepared with a venue-friendly bag. Transparent ones that meet a standardized size like this one are guaranteed to make it through the dreaded security line without a huge fuss – plus, you'll be able to see what's inside for easy access. Extra lip balm or lip oil, a travel-sized hairbrush, gum, and other purse necessities will fit in this handy fanny pack!

Hammitt Tony SML ($195)

And if you want to up the ante and opt for a slightly more stylish option, this stadium-approved bag from Hammitt does the trick! It's cute, compact, and carries all your essentials easily!

Loop Experience Earplugs ($35)

If you're even questioning, "should I wear earplugs to a concert?" in the first place, you should be wearing them. Sounds that reach 85 decibels and upwards are considered harmful to your hearing – and concerts can reach up to 120dB. Yikes! These earplugs from Loop depart from traditional earplugs (which are often drab) with style, plus provide up to 18dB of filtered noise reduction, so you can listen along without things getting too loud.

PopSockets Phone Wallet ($25)

Given the limited amount of bag space you're working with for most concerts, bringing your entire wallet could be more of a hassle than helpful. Phone wallets like this one from PopSockets are a sleek, easy way to only carry what you need (ideally, just your credit card and ID) and make room for other concert needs – merch table, anyone?

Is pepper spray allowed at concerts?

Most concert venues do not allow pepper spray to be brought in since it's considered a weapon. It really depends on each individual venue's policies as well. In some cases, the concert security team will keep your pepper spray at the front door for safe keeping until the show's over, and let you get it back upon leaving.

Are binoculars allowed at concerts?

Generally, binoculars are allowed at concerts, but you should be cautious when using them during the actual show. Some security teams may view them as a distraction for other concert-goers, or a security threat altogether.

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Header photo by Wendy Wei / PEXELS

Your refreshed spring wardrobe doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and Amazon has all the budget-friendly finds to prove it! From tops to shorts and dresses to accessories, I scoured pages and pages worth of spring-ready fashion picks that’ll help you upgrade your closet – all for $15 or less!

Scroll on for 20 adorable Amazon spring fashion essentials for a fresh look – without breaking the bank!

Amazon

Prettygarden Ribbed Knit Henley Top

This henley top makes the perfect layering piece for spring since it's lightweight, but still helps you hold some body heat in.

Amazon

Lillusory Crochet Top

This crochet number ties in the front for a cutesy bow effect. It's breathable enough for warm weather wearing, but you could also layer it atop a thin long sleeve top for cooler days!

Amazon

Trendy Queen Going Out Casual Tank Top

This boat neck tank top will go with any and every going out look!

Amazon

Highdays 5” Biker Shorts

Everyone needs a reliable pair of biker shorts in their wardrobe. Luckily, these ones are ultra-comfy and are on sale for just $8 right now!

Amazon

MakeMeChic Plus Size Floral Puff Sleeve Dress

This dress boasts everything we love about springtime: florals, puff sleeves, and a very flattering milkmaid neckline!

Amazon

Sojos Retro Polarized Square Sunglasses

When it comes to accessorizing your springtime 'fits, you can never go wrong with a fun pair of sunnies!

Amazon

Apsvo Chunky Hoop Earrings

These luxe-looking earrings are just $15 for two pairs – one gold, one silver – so you can easily match them up with a plethora of your best outfits!

Amazon

Hash Bubbie Mesh Flats

These breezy mesh flats will go everywhere with you this season, thanks to their comfy structure.

Amazon

Automet Sweat Shorts

Whether you're lounging on the couch, hitting the gym, or running errands, these cozy $15 shorts make room for comfort. They also come in so many different colors!

Amazon

Verdusa V-Neck Solid Batwing Sleeve Dress

Spring is not spring without a dress or two! This easygoing batwing sleeve dress will work wonderfully with sandals and tall boots alike.

Amazon

Leacoolkey Studded Leather Belt

This studded leather belt takes traditional belts to the next level.

Amazon

Automet Striped Sweater Vest

This sweater vest is practically begging to be a part of your work wardrobe. Pair it with some comfy slacks and ballet flats for a totally office-ready look!

Amazon

Trendy Queen Long Sleeve Shirt

This long sleeve tee is going to hug your body in all the right places. Talk about flattering!

Amazon

Anrabess Gingham Boxer Shorts

For a very on-trend outfit, step out in these adorable boxer shorts, a button-up shirt, and sleek sneakers.

Amazon

Zoosixx High Waisted Leggings

These high-waisted leggings totally have Lulu vibes, but not for the Lulu price tag – they're just $13 and are shoppable in tons of different fun colors!

Amazon

Vislily Plus-Size Square Neck Top

We love a square neckline around here! This flowy top practically screams springtime with its flutter sleeves.

Amazon

Oyoangle Plus Size Halter Neck Dress

Oh, how cute is this dress?! The halter neck is so sophisticated, plus the pastel-y pattern is undoubtedly spring-appropriate.

Amazon

Hee Grand Leather Mary Janes

These $15 Mary Janes are so simple, yet so stunning. They'd work well for an office outfit or for happy hour!

Amazon

Gold + Silver Chunky Knot Earrings

The mixed metals on these earrings make them an easy match with whatever getup you're feelin'.

Amazon

Green Rectangle Sunglasses

For a fun springtime pop of color, green is the way to go! Rock these sunnies with casual and formal 'fits alike.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Get excited, because Trader Joe’s just brought back a seasonal flavor of one of their most beloved frozen desserts. Mini-sized and perfect for mid-day – or, let’s be real – midnight snacking, the Hold The Cone ice cream has gracefully returnedwith the taste of none other than coffee! Yum. TJ’s fans are already running to their nearest stores to grab a box (or two!), so you're definitely going to want to grab this limited-time item before it runs out.

Scroll on to discover more about the Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones from Trader Joe’s.

Trader Joe's

Trader Joe’s Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones category includes classics like strawberry, chocolate, and chocolate chip, but a newcomer just joined the lineup: coffee bean! The cones are truly a cult-favorite item amongst shoppers, including myself!

Trader Joe's

According to Trader Joe’s, the Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones feature mini chocolate sugar cones lined with a “chocolatey” coating that are then packed with a rich and “strongly flavored” coffee bean ice cream.

Trader Joe's

Chocolate and coffee is a truly stunning food combo, so coffee and dessert lovers will adore this new iteration. Additionally, their small size makes them absolutely irresistible for snacking sessions – I could honestly eat the whole box in one sitting.

@traderjoesobsessed

TJ’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed shared the returning find with their Instagram followers, and it was an instant hit among those who know and love ‘em, and people who have never tried the cones before.

“Yassss my favorite flavor!!!” one person commented.

“I will be buying two boxes tomorrow,” another declared.

“I don’t understand why this is a seasonal flavor!” someone else pointed out.

Reddit

One box of the Trader Joe’s Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones is just $4, and that guarantees you 8 mini-sized ice cream cones to share – or keep all to yourself.

You can find this new drop in between TJ’s freezer aisles next to so many more sweet finds like the Blood Orange Mochi and the Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream. I’m craving ice cream already!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more epic Trader Joe's products + new items!

Amid the devastation of the LA fires, neighbors opening their homes to one another (like Hilary Duff housing Mandy Moore), internet users have found a new way to support people who have lost everything by streaming their old songs. When Heidi Montag's 2010 album Superficial hit #1 on iTunes, generating income for the popstar and her family, Gossip Girl fans called for another celebrity to get the same treatment: Leighton Meester (AKA Blair Waldorf) after she lost her home with husband Adam Brody.

Yep, in case you didn't know, Leighton Meester wasn't just an actress during her Gossip Girl days, she was also a singer! In addition to her role in Country Strong (which gave us the MASTERPIECE "Words I Couldn't Say"), Gossip Girl featured some of her music, like when the season 3 finale featured “Your Love's a Drug.”

Here's how fans are resurfacing Leighton Meester's old music right now!

Leighton Meester's fans include none other than Flavor Flav.

www.tiktok.com

Stream @LeightonMeester Somebody to Love and use the song in yo TikTok’s 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

Hip-hop artist Flavor Flav posted his support of Leighton Meester's "Somebody To Love" on TikTok on January 15. "Starting to hype up my girl Leighton Meester and help her family recover from the fire," he says in the onscreen text. And he's not the only one who loves her music, because fans started flooding his comments with their favorite songs.

"Good Girls Go Bad still goes triple platinum in my house annually," one user commented, while another added, "Stream Heartstrings by Leighton Meester too."

A third TikTok user ended up offering their own (phenomenal) idea when they said, "Can someone put together a LA fire playlist (philanthropy edition) so I can stream it all week?" Literally let's do it. I'm listening to the songs over and over anyway.

And the best part is that Rolling Stone reports that Heartstrings is now at 21 on iTunes!

Leighton Meester released some incredible music in the '00s and '10s.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Leighton Meester changed lives when she was a feature on Cobra Starship's "Good Girls Gone Bad" in July of 2009. This is quite literally one of the best pop songs of the decade — I never get tired of listening to it.

And she has some incredible features on her discography.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Leighton Meester follows up "Good Girls Gone Bad" with a song alongside Robin Thicke in a very steamy music video that Gossip Girl would definitely be writing about.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

And in 2014, Leighton Meester released a full-length album called Heartstrings, which includes this title track. It's a little country, it's a little pop, and it's very addictive. It feels totally different than the Blair Waldorf vibe we'd come to associate Leighton with, and it's like a breath of fresh air.

Here's the full Heartstrings tracklist!

  1. Heartstrings
  2. Run Away
  3. Good for One Thing
  4. Sweet
  5. On My Side
  6. LA
  7. Dreaming
  8. Blue Afternoon
  9. Entitled

If you need me for the next few weeks, I'll be listening to all of Leighton Meester's music on repeat. Check out the latest news on Adam Brody & Leighton Meester's New TV Show Good Cop/Bad Cop.

With an acting career that spans over four decades, Tom Hanks (born Thomas Jeffrey Hanks) is revered as one of the most beloved and well-respected actors in Hollywood. Whether he’s portraying a lovable man-child in Big or voicing a trustworthy cowboy sheriff doll in Toy Story, the now 68-year-old actor and filmmaker has managed to capture the hearts of audiences around the world, solidifying himself as an American cultural icon. Aside from having many prestigious awards under his belt, Hanks’ impressive acting catalog includes a movie or two that is an absolute must-watch. (Ahem, I’ve watched You’ve Got Mail more than a dozen times, but who’s counting?)

From Cast Away to Apollo 13, here’s a list of the best Tom Hanks movies everyone should watch at least once—if you haven’t already!

1. Forrest Gump

Paramount Pictures

One of the most memorable quotes from this widely-praised classic comes from Forrest Gump himself, where the titular character repeats a phrase often used by his late mother: “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”

That’s just one of the inspirational lessons you will take away throughout the film. Serving as an adaption of Winston Groom’s 1986 novel of the same title, Forrest Gump follows an Alabama man who doesn’t let his intellectual shortcomings stand in his way. From fighting on the front lines of the Vietnam War to captaining a shrimp boat, Forrest Gump is living his life to the fullest.

But he yearns to be with his childhood love, Jenny, who goes on to live a troubling life. Not only was Forrest Gump a box office success (garnering a whopping $678.2 million worldwide during its theatrical run, btw) but it was admired by critics and fans alike, earning an 8.8 out of 10 rating on IMDb and a 75 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. While this Tom Hanks movie has faced some controversy over the years, its redeeming qualities make it one of the most iconic movies of the 90s.

2. Toy Story

Disney

Woody is the true definition of best friend goals. Woody’s unwavering fearlessness and ability to go to infinity and beyond for Andy (AKA his owner) and his fellow toys is quite endearing. It’s hard to picture anyone other than Tom Hanks voicing the iconic vintage doll. From the moment Woody is first introduced on screen, Hanks brings a story of charm and je ne sais quoi to the character that can’t be replicated.

While the Toy Story movie franchise consists of four movies (with a fifth movie currently in the works, ICYMI), the first Toy Story movie will always be a fan favorite, earning an 8.3 out of 10 rating on IMDb and a perfect 100 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes.

3. Philadelphia

TriStar

Moving, poignant and unforgettable. Those are the three words that describe Hank’s phenomenal (and don’t forget Oscar-winning!) performance in 1993’s law drama Philadelphia. Meet Andrew Beckett, a lawyer working at a prestigious law firm in Philadelphia. In a desperate attempt to save his career, he keeps his HIV diagnosis and homosexuality a secret from his co-workers.

However, an employee discovers his secret, and as a result, Beckett is let go from the law firm. Angered by the firm’s decision, Beckett enlists the help of a Black lawyer named Joe Miller (played by Denzel Washington) and sues his former employer for discrimination.

From the talented ensemble cast to the film’s underlying message of social injustice and prejudice, Philadelphia is an absolute must-watch from beginning to end. And the ratings speak for themselves: Philadelphia has a 7.7/10 on IMDb and 81 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

4. ​Big

20th Century Fox

If you ask me, Big is like the big brother to 13 Going on 30 and 17 Again. Directed by Penny Marshall (who you may recognize from the TV sitcom Laverne & Shirley!), Big follows a 12-year-old boy named Josh Baskin, who wishes he was “big.”

One day, he wakes up as an adult. However, Josh longs for the days of childhood. But what makes this film so great? Hanks brings such a childlike innocence to the role that you can’t help but smile whenever he appears on screen. Whether he’s playing with toys or gleefully playing a sonnet on a life-size piano keyboard with his feet, Big makes you feel an enchanting sense of nostalgia, where you can think back to a time when life was so carefree and being a child wasn’t a distant memory. Also, it has a 7.3/10 rating on IMDb and a whopping 98 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

5. Sleepless in Seattle

TriStar

As someone who has watched Sleepless in Seattle more than once, I can’t say enough how much this timeless rom-com deserves a spot on this list. From the undeniable chemistry between Hanks and Meg Ryan to the talented ensemble cast, this is a movie I put on whenever I’m in the mood for a genuine, heartwarming romance. What’s not to love?

Following the death of his wife, Sam Baldwin and his son move to Seattle for a fresh start. One night, Jonah calls into a radio station to find his dad a new wife. While driving late at night, a journalist named Annie Reed is listening to the same radio segment and she falls for Sam, but—get this—she’s engaged.

Unable to get him off her mind, Annie takes a leap of faith and writes to Sam, asking him to meet up on top of the Empire State Building on Valentine’s Day. If that doesn’t scream romance, then I don’t know what does. Though Sleepless in Seattle received a 6.8/10 rating on IMDb and 75 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, it remains one of my fave Nora Ephron films and Tom Hanks’ swoon-worthy portrayal of Sam is chef's kiss.

6. ​Cast Away

DreamWorks

If you were questioning Tom Hanks’ range as an actor, just put on Cast Away (which has a 7.8/10 rating on IMDb and 88 percent on Rotten Tomatoes) one time and you’ll see for yourself. I mean, the man is acting alongside a volleyball named Wilson for most of the movie, for crying out loud.

Hanks is a force to be reckoned with in this film, where he plays a FedEx executive who survives a plane crash and becomes stranded on a deserted island. As he fights to survive, he dreams of one day reuniting with a person he holds near and dear to his heart: his soon-to-be fiancée.

7. ​Saving Private Ryan

DreamWorks

The first time I watched Saving Private Ryan was in Social Studies class. Middle school, to be exact. Set during WWII, Saving Private Ryan follows Captain John Miller and his regiment as they embark on a journey to locate Private James Ryan, whose three brothers have been killed in combat.

This movie will stick with you after the screen fades to black and the end credits roll. And Hanks’ ability to capture Captain John Miller’s sincerity and valiantness with so much authenticity was nothing short of spectacular. But that’s not the only reason why it deserves a spot on everyone’s watch list. While it’s certainly not an easy watch, this film tells an impactful yet inspiring story about resilience, loss, and the disastrous conditions of war. Not to mention, it has an impressive 8.6/10 rating on IMDb and 94 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. Need I say more?

8. ​Catch Me If You Can

DreamWorks

What do you get when you put Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio in a crime-action comedy? Catch Me If You Can, that’s what! Serving as a live adaptation of Frank Abagnale Jr.’s autobiographical book of the same name, Catch Me If You Can revolves around the young conman, who becomes the most successful bank robber in the history of the U.S. before the age of 19.

Frank has done it all: he’s worked as a doctor, a lawyer, and as a co-pilot for a major airline. In a cunning game of cat and mouse, FBI Agent Carl Hanratty (played by Hanks) tries to bring Frank to justice, only for Frank to be one step ahead. It garnered an 8.1/10 rating on IMDb and a 96 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. And don’t even get me started on Hanks and DiCaprio being the ultimate on-screen duo.

9. ​Apollo 13

Universal Pictures

“Houston, we have a problem!” If you heard this iconic phrase before, I bet you didn’t know that it came from the 1995 docu-drama Apollo 13. Aside from its stellar ensemble cast, the film was also praised for its accurate retelling of the Apollo 13 lunar mission.

The year is 1970. A crew of three astronauts boarded a NASA spacecraft in hopes of landing on the moon. When an oxygen tank explodes during their mission, the crew must find a way to survive and make it safely back to Earth. Not only is it regarded as one of the best movies of all time, but it also received praise from critics, earning a 7.7/10 rating on IMDb and a 96 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

10. Splash

Buena Vista Pictures

Last but not least: Splash. Sure, the plot may be a bit cheesy. But it has everything that makes an '80s rom-com great. Strong chemistry? Check. Quirky humor? Oh, there’s a lot of that! Splash follows a man who's reunited with a mermaid that saved him from drowning 20 years ago.

Now, as an adult, he falls in love with the mermaid after she ventures onto dry land to find him. However, their perfect love story is cut short when a scheming scientist tries to expose her secret to the world. Now, I know what you’re thinking: This movie has a 6.3/10 rating on IMDb and it somehow received a 95 percent on Rotten Tomatoes (with an audience rating of 65 percent.) But Splash is an overall good time. If you’re looking for a chuckle or two, you’ll get it with Splash. (And can I just say that Tom Hanks is so charming and funny in this film?!)

What’s your favorite Tom Hanks movie? Did we miss one on the list? If so, let us know in the comments and read up on the 10 Cringy 90s Movies That Would Never Be Made Today for more!

I don't know whether to treat my period acne as guests or annoying pests. I'm familiar with balancing my hormones, but even that seems to be a great mystery when painful breakouts appear on my forehead or chin. Even relying on a face wash fromFarmacy Beautyisn't always a match for their stubbornness.

But esthetician Danielle Gronich wants to dispel the idea hormonal acne's impossible to treat. Plus, she's exposing the truth about ingredients that could be causing flareups 👀. Known as The Acne Guru, Gronich has over 10 years of experience treating cystic acne, and is the founder of both the San Diego Acne ClinicCLEARSTEM Skincare.

Ready for our acne to be in great hands?

Scroll to learn The Acne Guru's top 4 tips for treating stubborn hormonal breakouts

What's the biggest myth about hormonal acne?

Taylor Nicole/Dupe Photos

I love relying on TikTok to find cute matcha drink recipes to remake, but I know some of the skincare advice shared on the app shouldn't be followed. But there's one thing in particular Gronich isn't a fan of.

"The biggest myth about hormonal acne is that you have to be on birth control in order to solve it. This myth is all over social media, but I believe it comes from the medical world not really understanding hormones and having to rely on prescriptions to override them."

Would you believe me if I told you she's not wrong? I've been on birth control off and on since I was teenager, but I've yet to see it get to the root of my acne problem!

What are different types of hormonal acne?

Anna Nekrashevich/Pexels

Did you know not all hormonal acne stems directly from your period? According to Gronich, "there are many different triggers" for it with "the most common ones being stress and high sugar or processed foods" because they "impact our hormones." However, that's not all!

"Also extremely common is PCOS, estrogen dominance, progestin-related acne from certain birth control controls like the hormonal IUD, and then there is another type of hormonal acne caused by the vitamins and supplements we take," she adds. Going a step further, Gronich says "certain vitamins and supplements can spike testosterone or interfere with other enzyme processes that throw off our hormones."

I guess this is why my doctor always recommends I consult with her before taking random tablets so I'm not disrupting anything in my body!

Why do I see breakouts on my forehead, cheeks, or chin sometimes?

Polina Tankilevitch/Pexels

Remember the face mapping tool we were introduced to years ago? There's truth to them which is why Gronich created a Pore-Clogging Ingredient Checker for you to get more insight about what you're putting on your skin. But back to what your breakouts are trying to tell you!

Given Gronich's experience, she knows "different areas of the face can represent different parts of the body." She sees "hormonal acne most on the chin and jawline" because "we have the deepest hair follicles there." Want to know what this means for our body's reaction to certain foods and products?

"Dairy has insulin-like growth factor hormone so many people who consume dairy regularly get hormonal acne right on their chin. Some people are taking too much vitamin B 12 which throws off their hormones and you see it on the jawline," she says.

Then there's our relationship with using a ton of beauty products. Gronich is firm about telling "people to remove pore-ingredients from their skin care ad makeup" because "acne that's all over your face" is the direct result of "something that's being put all over your face." Not being aware of what we're using "will flare with our PMS cycle, so we accidentally think it's hormonal," accodring to her. But nope!

"...it can also just be caused by those hidden pore-clogging ingredients," she states.

Okay, how do I treat what feels like hormonal acne?

Yan Krukau/Pexels

No matter your skin type, there's a few ingredients you can use to treat hormonal acne over time. "People can treat their hormonal acne with mandelic acid, and spot treatments like sulfur," Gronich shares. She also says, "Benzoyl peroxide can be a useful tool as well but must be used carefully so as not to over strip the skin. Don't take this advice lightly because I accidentally created more issues when I used this haphazardly.

If you don't want to use Benzoyl peroxide, she says you try "ice rolling." The amount of times you can use this tool depends on your skin type. "...if you are oily, you can use these treatments every day."

How do I treat dark spots left over from hormonal acne

Ron Lach/Pexels

Gronich's tips for treating dark spots are making me rethink my shower habits because I've been doing the opposite of what's considered helpful for my skin. She says, "Avoid using hot water in the shower as it continually inflames the skin and further damages the delicate scar tissue!" Furthermore, you can "use anti-inflammatory products," according to her.

"Serums that contain hyaluronic acid can be very helpful, as well as gentle massaging to activate circulation which stimulates our wound healing response in the skin. Red light therapy can also be fantastic for scarring, along with professional micro needling treatments," she remarks.

The best things you and I can do are being mindful of what we eat, supplements we take, and what we put on our faces. Also, a lot of patience goes a long way when treating hormonal acne.

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