Acne is a very common skin condition that affects a large percentage of individuals throughout their lifetime. Acne is caused by clogged hair follicles and pores
We have various types of acne such as cystic, fungal, hormonal and nodular acne. For today, we are going to cover hormonal acne.
What is Hormonal Acne? And Its Causes
Also known as adult acne and occurs due to fluctuations of hormones. It is common among women from ages 20, 30, 40 and 50s. It can also occur in men but it less common.
It occurs during hormonal shifts like menstruation, pregnancy, stopping birth control, high stress, menopause.
The hormonal imbalance causes over production of sebum that clogs pores. This type of acne comes in various forms either whiteheads, blackheads or cystic acne.
According to studies hormonal acne appears on the lower cheeks, chin, jawline, neck and it mostly leaves dark spots and it can be mild or sever ace that may last for months.
Hormones that play a role in hormonal acne;
Androgens- Stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. Overproduction of sebum leads to clogged pores which in turn form acne. Clogged pores form blackheads, whiteheads and cystic acne.
Estrogen- This hormone regulates sebum production and has anti-inflammatory effects. And it sharply drops before menstruation and on the first day of menstruation which leads to break outs.
Progesterone- Peaks in the luteal phase and worsen breakouts. It also stimulates androgen activity that leads to clogging of pores.
Cortisol- This is the ‘stress hormone’. Stress stems from a couple of issues like relationship problems, financial struggles, work related issues. Repeated exposure to stress in turn increases the levels of cortisol which increases oil production that clogs pores and leads to breakouts. So, drop whichever situation that stresses you and have a good skincare routine.
Other Cause of Hormonal Acne Include;
Family history
PCOS
Birth control and Steroids
Testosterone treatment
Hormonal Acne Treatment Options;
So far, we know that hormonal acne is caused by hormonal imbalance so will topical products alone help clear it? Definitely NO.
As someone who has struggled with hormonal acne I can guarantee you topical products alone will not clear the acne. You have to start healing it internally for better long lasting results. It will keep on recurring till you get to the root cause of it.
Internal Treatment to try;
Oral Antibiotics- on severe cases individuals are prescribed for Accutane.
Spironolactone- this is an anti androgen drug that regulates androgen hormone. High levels of androgen leads to more oil production that clogs pores
Oral Contraceptives- these pills regulate hormone levels i.e estrogen and progesterone leading to reduction in breakouts
Other Hormonal Acne Natural Treatment Options;
Spearmint Tea- spearmint reduces androgen levels and helps in balancing hormones. You should give this tea a try as it works on most people. Spearmint tea also has anti-inflammatory properties that will help soothe your skin.
Supplements- zinc, vitamin D, vitamin B, Chasteberry, Omega 3 fatty acids are all supplements that will help in reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, reduce bacteria that will cause acne and give you healthy skin. Research has also linked deficiency of Vitamin D causes Acne
Green Tea- Another tea for hormonal imbalance. This may help reduce acne by reducing sebum production.
Lifestyle Tips to try for Hormonal Acne;
Diet- With Hormonal acne you need to be careful of what you put in your body. Take food rich in
- Zinc-pumpkin seeds, lentils
- High fiber foods-oats, beans, apples, carrots
- Anti-inflammatory- salmon, berries, leafy greens, mackerel.
- Vegetables- broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage
- Foods to limit- processed foods, excessive sugar, dairy, high-glycemic, refined grains
Hydrate and Be stress free
Get enough sleep
Apply non-comedogenic products
Topical Treatments
Tea tree oil- I have used tea tree essential oil mixed with a carrier oil as a spot treatment when the breakouts happens and it has really helped me. Tea tree oil may help decrease inflammation, bacteria and oxidative stress
AHAs- They remove excess dead skin cells that clog pores and minimize the appearance of acne scars. This will be ideal due to the dark spots that form after hormonal acne. If you are looking for how to heal hormonal acne scars I have written down a whole article on hyperpigmentation and treatment options you can use. AHAs are also great in reducing inflammation. AHAs to try; glycolic acid, lactic acid (great for sensitive skin)
Benzoyl Peroxide- This is great for red inflamed acne.
Salicylic acid- exfoliates the skin and removes dead cells that clog pores.
CONCLUSION
Hormonal acne is more than just a skin issue—it’s a signal from within that your body is experiencing hormonal fluctuations. Whether it’s due to your menstrual cycle, stress, diet, or underlying conditions like PCOS, treating hormonal acne requires more than just surface-level solutions.
A simple skincare routine can help manage breakouts and improve skin texture. And with hormonal acne you don’t need to do too much a simple three step skincare routine with the right active ingredients will work but long-term healing involves addressing internal factors through diet, lifestyle changes and medical support when necessary.
By understanding your hormonal patterns and adopting a holistic skincare approach, you can reduce flare-ups, regain control of your skin, and feel more confident in your natural glow.
Tell us what worked for you when clearing hormonal acne in the comments below
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