Hormonal Acne: Causes, Treatment & Prevention

August 08, 2024 by Forest Essentials

Table of Contents

Dealing with inflamed, painful zits during the awkward teenage years is a rite of passage for many, but for some, these stubborn breakouts don’t end with adolescence. Hormonal acne, aptly named for its direct link to hormonal changes in the female body, can persist well into adulthood, affecting women in their 20s, 30s, and even 40s. This persistent skin issue can reappear due to various factors, including perimenopause and menopause, making it a widespread concern beyond the teenage years. In this article, we delve into the causes, impact, and treatment options for hormonal acne, aiming to provide a comprehensive guide for those battling this relentless condition.

Hormonal Acne Causes

The hormones responsible for acne are estrogen, progesterone, and androgens like testosterone. While estrogen helps regulate sebum production in the skin, progesterone has the opposite effect, increasing sebum release, which can then clog pores and cause acne. Androgens, on the other hand, stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and thrive. Therefore, there is a direct correlation between acne and hormones. A rise in androgens is the primary cause of hormonal acne.

Type of Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne can range from pimples, papules, pustules, blackheads, and whiteheads to painful cysts. These bumps usually occur on the face, shoulders, chest, and even your back.

Differentiating Between Hormonal and Bacterial Acne

Unlike regular pimples, hormonal acne is linked to hormonal changes in the body. It often surfaces during the menstrual cycle or when the body undergoes hormonal shifts such as menopause or conditions like PCOS. Regular acne follows no such pattern and can flare up at any time. Hormonal cystic acne is often deep and painful to touch. The areas where the acne occurs can also help determine its type. Hormonal acne usually appears on the lower face, jawline, and neck, while regular acne can occur on any part of the face.

Hormonal Acne	Bacterial Acne
It is caused as a result of hormonal changes in the body and hence often seen during menstruation, pregnancy, ovulation, and menopause.	An overgrowth of bacteria in the skin is the root cause of this type of acne. It causes inflammation that leads to pimples and cysts.
It usually develops on the lower area of the face and the jawline.	It typically develops on the oilier areas such as the forehead, nose, and chin.
It occurs at a particular time when hormonal changes are happening in the body.	It is always present and may worsen due to various factors.

Difference between Hormonal Acne and Bacteria Acne

Hormonal Acne Treatment

The best treatment for hormonal acne is to control the androgen levels and sebum production. While topical treatments can help with hormonal acne, they should not be substituted for medical care. It’s always suggested to consult with a dermatologist to figure out the exact concern and the subsequent course of treatment.

Let’s explore Forest Essentials’ anti-acne regime, which can help you steer clear of unwanted breakouts.

Step 1: Facial Ubtan Anti-Acne Blend

Forest Essential Facial Ubtan Multani Mitti

This ubtan is a hand-pounded blend of efficacious acne-fighting ingredients such as Fuller’s Earth, Turmeric, and Neem Leaf. It helps cleanse and purify the skin while providing a healthy complexion and smooth texture. It clears out the pores and unveils clear skin by minimising acne, blemishes, and pigmentation. Mixing this blend with Aloe Vera juice can further enhance the benefits as Aloe Vera alleviates acne, soothes affected areas, and improves the healing ability of the skin.

Step 2: Shudhi Skin Clarifying Facial Spray

Shudhi Skin Clarifying Facial Spray

₹1750.00

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A transformational facial spray that contains Ayurvedic herbs along with Aloe Vera juice and Clove essential oil. These ingredients are proven to minimise acne and fight acne-causing bacteria. This spray works exceptionally well to control acne, alleviate inflammation, and give you clear and blemish-free skin.

Step 3: Eladi Day Cream with SPF 30

Eladi Day Cream With SPF 30

₹2595.00

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This day cream is specially designed to regulate sebum production in the skin while hydrating it from within and keeping it effectively protected from harmful UV rays. It is infused with an Ayurvedic preparation called Mukta Pishti, which is a freshwater pearl paste that clarifies the skin and adds sheen, along with Eladi oil, which is known to treat acne and lighten blemishes and pigmentation for a clear and bright skin tone.

Ways to Prevent & Cure Hormonal Acne Naturally

Apart from paying extra attention to your skin and pampering it with natural Ayurvedic preparations from Forest Essentials, there are certain lifestyle changes that you can make to regulate your hormones.

1. Dietary Regulations

Adding probiotics to your diet will help ease any gut inflammation that could trigger acne. Researchers have also found a direct link between foods with a high glycemic index such as Sugar or refined Flour Bread and androgen levels. Eating foods with a lower GI can help reduce the chances of acne.

2. Stress

While there are no concrete studies that prove that lower stress levels can treat acne, being stressed might be linked to higher androgen levels. Incorporating mindful activities like meditation, Yoga, and hobbies that stimulate you will benefit your overall well-being and keep your skin healthy.

3. Physical Activity

Having an active lifestyle and indulging in regular physical activities can help keep hormonal acne at bay. Exercising boosts blood circulation and oxygen in the skin, which then reduces inflammation. Sweating is common while exercising, which helps keep your pores unclogged. But you should always remember to cleanse your face properly after every workout so that your skin stays healthy and clear.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6360964

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6360964/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6360964/

https://academic.oup.com/jes/article/6/3/bvac003/6523224

FAQs

Does hormonal imbalance cause acne?

Yes, hormonal imbalance, specifically a rise in androgen levels, is the root cause of hormonal acne.

How do you get rid of hormonal acne?

Although hormonal acne can be stubborn, it is possible to get rid of it with a few lifestyle changes, skincare enhancements, and topical treatments. However, it is always advised to consult a dermatologist to figure out the right course of treatment.

How do I know if my acne is hormonal?

Various parameters can help determine whether your acne is hormonal or bacterial. The simplest way is to observe if your acne flares up during certain times, such as menstruation, or to identify where it usually occurs. These indicators can help determine the cause. However, these methods might not be 100% accurate, so it is best to consult a dermatologist to understand the type of acne and explore treatment options.

How is hormonal acne triggered?

Hormonal acne is triggered by hormonal imbalance. The main hormone responsible is androgens, which stimulate the production of excess oil in the skin.

What product is best for hormonal acne?

You can try Forest Essentials’ Anti-Acne & Pigmentation Kit to help minimise acne and keep your skin clear.

Written By:

Forest Essentials Luxurious Ayurveda

India’s leading beauty brand with products offering a sensorial journey with the purest natural ingredients and traditional Ayurvedic formulations, bringing timeless beauty rituals to the forefront of your self-care routine.

Reviewed By:

Arjun Singh Senior Ayurveda Expert

Arjun is a marketing professional turned Ayurveda Expert. After the completion of his post-graduation in 2008, he started his journey in the beauty industry. He has since worked with several global luxury beauty brands including DIOR & Estee Lauder. With now more than 12 years of experience, he is driven by the idea of making Skin Care, ‘simple’ and ‘accessible’ for all and help clients transform their lifestyle and skin with solutions rooted in his extensive understanding of Ayurveda. A Senior Ayurveda Expert at Forest Essentials, he carefully curates Ayurvedic remedies and is continuously working towards bridging the gap between time-honoured skin care solutions and the modern consumer of the fast-paced world.

Disclaimer

The content provided in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.