acne

What is Hormonal Acne?

Hormonal acne is a type of acne triggered by fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly androgens like testosterone. These hormones can increase oil production, leading to clogged pores, bacterial growth, and inflammation.

This type of acne commonly affects the jawline, chin,and lower face and is seen in:

• Teenagers (due to puberty-related hormonal changes)
• Menstruating individuals (due to recurring hormone fluctuations)
• Pregnancy (due to increased androgens)
• People with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) or other hormonal disorders

Causes of Hormonal Acne

1. Increased Androgens (Testosterone)

• Stimulates oil glands, leading to excess oil and clogged pores.
• This provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. That bacteria is Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) which is a type of bacteria naturally found on human skin. It is commonly associated with acne but also plays a role in maintaining skin health.

2. Menstrual Cycle & Hormonal Fluctuations

• Right before a period, estrogen and progesterone drop, while androgens stay the same, leading to breakouts.
• Some people experience acne mid-cycle (around ovulation) due to hormone shifts.

3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) & Hormonal Disorders

• PCOS causes higher levels of  androgens, leading to continual acne.
• Other conditions affecting the endocrine system may also contribute.

4. Stress & Cortisol

• Chronic stress increases cortisol, which can indirectly increase oil production and worsen breakouts.

5. Diet & Lifestyle Factors

• High-glycemic foods (like sugar, white bread, and fast food) may increase insulin levels, which can boost androgen production.
• Dairy products contain hormones that may trigger acne in some individuals.
• Lack of sleep and poor gut health may also worsen breakouts.

Treatment Options for Hormonal Acne

1. Topical Treatments

For mild to moderate hormonal acne, topical treatments can help control oil production, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation.

• Retinoids (e.g., Differin, Tretinoin, Retinol) Can promote skin cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.
• Benzoyl Peroxide can kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Salicylic Acid helps exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and control oil.
• Azelaic Acid  Can help with redness, inflammation, and bacterial overgrowth.
• Niacinamide Is an anti-inflammatory that can help control sebum production.

These listed treatments are best for Mild to moderate hormonal acne and should be used in moderation. If the above options are over used it can make acne breakouts worse.

2. Lifestyle & Diet Changes for Hormonal Acne

Stress Management

• Yoga, meditation and deep breathing can help reduce cortisol levels.
• Consistent sleep is important because a lack of sleep can worsen inflammation.

Dietary Adjustments

• Reduce high-glycemic foods such as sugar, white bread and sodas
• Limit your dairy intake especially skim milk, which may contain hormone traces
• Eat omega-3 rich foods such as salmon and  flaxseeds which can help regulate inflammation.
• Increase your fiber intake which will support healthy digestion and hormone balance.

Proper Skincare Routine

• Use gentle, non-comedogenic (products designed not to clog pores) cleansers and moisturizers.
• Avoid over cleansing which can strip the skin and cause more oil production.
• Use sunscreen daily because many acne treatments can make skin more sensitive to UV rays

3. Oral Treatments

For moderate to severe hormonal acne, you should visit your doctor or dermatologist where they may prescribe the following medications which can help balance hormones and reduce breakouts.

Birth Control Pills

• Regulate hormone fluctuations by reducing androgen levels.

Spironolactone

• A hormone-blocking medication that reduces androgens and oil production.
• Often prescribed alongside birth control for stubborn acne.

Oral Antibiotics

• Short-term use to reduce inflammation and bacterial overgrowth.
• Not a long-term solution as it doesn’t address the root hormonal cause.

Isotretinoin (Accutane)

• A powerful treatment for severe, cystic acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
• Requires medical supervision due to potential side effects.

Final Thoughts

Hormonal acne is a complicated condition that often requires a combination of a proper at home skin care routine, monthly Calming Facials, topical treatments and lifestyle adjustments for effective management. Remember to always consult your Physician or Dermatologist if the above simple treatments do not help. If you need help with your acne, call 828-289-7183 or book online at https://blueridgespanc.com/booking/ for a Free Skin Consultation.