Hormonal Acne: What Hormones Cause Acne? Complete Guide

Hormonal acne is a type of acne caused by fluctuations in hormone levels. It often appears:

• Along the jawline
• Chin
• Lower cheeks

Unlike typical acne, hormonal acne is linked to internal changes in the body rather than just external factors like dirt or comedogenic products. Understanding which hormones trigger acne is essential for proper management.

Key Hormones That Cause Acne

1. Androgens (Testosterone and Dihydrotestosterone – DHT)

• Function: Regulate oil production in sebaceous glands
• Effect: Excess androgens increase sebum production, clogging pores
• Symptoms: Oily skin, deep cystic pimples, especially along the jawline

2. Estrogen

• Function: Maintains skin hydration and regulates sebum
• Effect: Low estrogen levels (e.g., premenstrual phase, menopause) can lead to acne flare-ups
• Symptoms: Breakouts during menstrual cycle or menopause

3. Progesterone

• Function: Balances estrogen and testosterone
• Effect: Fluctuating progesterone can increase oil production and inflammation
• Symptoms: Pimples appearing cyclically before menstruation

4. Cortisol

• Function: Stress hormone regulating metabolic processes
• Effect: High cortisol stimulates sebum production and inflammation
• Symptoms: Acne flare-ups during periods of stress or poor sleep

5. Insulin and IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1)

• Function: Regulates blood sugar and growth
• Effect: High insulin and IGF-1 levels stimulate androgen production
• Symptoms: Acne linked with high-glycemic diets and insulin resistance

Signs of Hormonal Acne

• Breakouts primarily on lower face, jawline, chin, and neck
• Cyclical acne pattern corresponding with menstrual cycle
• Deep, cystic lesions that are painful
• Resistant to over-the-counter acne treatments
• Accompanied by oily skin and sometimes excess hair growth (hirsutism)

Causes and Triggers of Hormonal Acne

1. Puberty – Surge in androgens triggers oil production
2. Menstrual Cycle – Hormonal fluctuations lead to premenstrual breakouts
3. Pregnancy – Progesterone and estrogen levels rise, sometimes causing acne
4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Excess androgens trigger persistent acne
5. Menopause – Decline in estrogen and progesterone can cause skin changes
6. Stress – High cortisol worsens acne
7. Diet – High sugar, dairy, and refined carbs elevate insulin and IGF-1

Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Hormonal Acne

1. Balanced Diet

• Include leafy greens, fruits, and lean proteins
• Reduce sugar, high-glycemic foods, and dairy products

2. Stress Management

• Meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and adequate sleep
• Reduces cortisol levels and inflammation

3. Gentle Skincare Routine

• Cleanse twice daily with non-comedogenic products
• Use salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for exfoliation
• Moisturize with lightweight, oil-free creams
• Apply sunscreen daily

4. Home Remedies

• Tea Tree Oil: Antibacterial spot treatment
• Aloe Vera Gel: Soothes inflammation
• Green Tea Extract: Reduces sebum production and oxidative stress

Medical Treatments for Hormonal Acne

1. Oral Contraceptives – Regulate estrogen and progesterone, reducing androgen effects
2. Anti-Androgen Medications (Spironolactone) – Reduce androgen activity
3. Topical Retinoids – Unclog pores and improve skin turnover
4. Oral or Topical Antibiotics – Reduce bacterial infection and inflammation
5. Hormone Therapy – For PCOS or menopause-related acne

Prevention Tips for Hormonal Acne

• Maintain consistent skincare routine
• Avoid over-washing or harsh scrubs
• Use non-comedogenic cosmetics
• Manage stress and prioritize sleep
• Monitor diet and avoid high-sugar, high-dairy foods
• Seek medical advice if acne persists or worsens

Conclusion: Managing Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne is complex but manageable with a combination of lifestyle changes, proper skincare, home remedies, and medical interventions when necessary. By understanding which hormones trigger acne, you can:

• Target underlying causes instead of just symptoms
• Reduce severity and frequency of breakouts
• Achieve clearer, healthier skin
• Prevent scarring and long-term skin damage

Consistency, awareness of triggers, and professional guidance are key to effective hormonal acne management.