Hormonal Acne – A Complete Guide

December 15, 2025 4:19 pm

Hormonal acne is one of the most common skin conditions in teens and adults. Many people believe acne only happens during puberty, but the truth is that hormonal shifts can cause breakouts at any age. Hormonal acne can feel frustrating because it often returns month after month and does not always respond to the usual skincare routines.

This complete guide explains what hormonal acne is, what causes it, how it looks, who gets it, how to treat it, and how to prevent it. You will find every important detail in simple and easy to understand language so that you can take control of your skin and understand your body better.

 

What Is Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne is acne that happens when changes in hormones affect the oil glands and hair follicles in the skin. When hormone levels rise or fall, the body can produce more oil, become more sensitive to inflammation, or experience clogged pores more easily. This combination leads to pimples, cysts, blackheads, and whiteheads.

Hormonal acne can affect both men and women, although it is more common in women due to monthly menstrual cycles and other life changes that influence hormones.

 

What Causes Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne has several possible causes. These causes often overlap, which is why breakouts can continue even when people follow a good skincare routine.

1. Increase in Androgens

Androgens are hormones like testosterone that increase oil production. When androgen levels rise, the oil glands become more active and make more sebum. Extra oil mixes with dead skin cells and creates clogged pores.

2. Menstrual Cycle Changes

Many women notice breakouts before or during their period. Hormone shifts that happen at this time can increase oil production and inflammation, which leads to new pimples.

3. Puberty

Teenagers experience high hormone activity, which makes puberty one of the most acne prone stages of life.

4. Pregnancy

Pregnancy increases hormones that can cause breakouts. Some women develop acne during the first or second trimester.

5. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PCOS is a hormonal condition that causes irregular periods, higher androgen levels, and acne that is often harder to treat.

6. Stress

Stress increases the hormone cortisol. High cortisol levels can trigger oil glands and cause breakouts on the face, jawline, chest, or back.

7. Hormonal Birth Control

Certain types of birth control can cause acne, while others may help reduce it. The effect depends on the hormones in the pill or device.

8. Stopping Birth Control

Acne can appear after stopping birth control because the body adjusts to new hormone levels.

9. Medications and Supplements

Some medicines or supplements that affect hormones can trigger acne.

10. Genetics

If acne runs in your family, you might be more sensitive to hormonal changes.

 

What Does Hormonal Acne Look Like

Hormonal acne has some patterns that make it easier to identify.

1. Deep and Painful Pimples

Many people with hormonal acne get deep pimples or cysts under the skin. These can feel sore or tender.

2. Breakouts Around the Chin and Jawline

Hormonal acne often appears on the lower face, including the chin, jawline, and lower cheeks. In men, it can appear around the beard area.

3. Cyclical Breakouts

If your acne appears around the same time every month, this is a strong sign that hormones are involved.

4. Oily Skin

Hormonal acne often comes with increased oil production, especially on the forehead, nose, and chin.

5. Whiteheads and Blackheads

Hormonal acne may also include clogged pores that look like whiteheads or blackheads.

6. Acne on the Chest and Back

Hormonal changes can also cause breakouts on the body, especially the back and chest.

 

How to Tell the Difference Between Hormonal Acne and Other Types of Acne

Not all acne has the same cause. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right treatment.

Hormonal Acne

• Appears around chin, jawline, and lower cheeks
• Comes in cycles, often monthly
• Includes deep painful cysts
• Often linked to period, stress, or hormonal changes
• Can continue into adulthood

Bacterial or Regular Acne

• Appears anywhere on the face
• Caused by clogged pores and bacteria
• Includes whiteheads, blackheads, and pus filled pimples
• Often responds to acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide

Fungal Acne

• Shows up as small, itchy bumps
• Usually on forehead, chest, or back
• Caused by yeast, not hormones

If acne treatment products do not help, your acne may be hormonal or fungal instead of bacterial.

 

Who Gets Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne can affect anyone at any age. However, some groups are more likely to experience it.

1. Teenagers

Hormones are constantly changing during puberty, which leads to breakouts.

2. Women in Their Twenties and Thirties

Even after the teenage years, women can experience monthly hormonal changes that cause acne.

3. Women With PCOS

PCOS increases androgen levels, which leads to ongoing breakouts that can be harder to control.

4. Pregnant Women

Pregnancy shifts hormone levels and increases oil production.

5. People Under High Stress

Stress triggers hormones that make the skin produce more oil.

6. People With a Family History of Acne

Genetics can make some people more sensitive to hormonal shifts.

 

Common Symptoms of Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne has several signs that can help you identify it clearly.

1. Pimples That Return Monthly

Many people notice breakouts around the same time each month, especially before their period.

2. Painful Cysts

Large bumps under the skin that hurt or feel swollen are common with hormonal acne.

3. Excess Oil Production

The skin may feel shiny or greasy by midday.

4. Breakouts After Stress

Stress weakens the skin barrier and increases oil, leading to new pimples.

5. Pimples on Lower Cheeks, Chin, and Jawline

This pattern is strongly linked to hormone levels.

6. Acne Flares During Pregnancy or Menopause

Life stages with large hormone swings can trigger acne.

 

How Is Hormonal Acne Diagnosed

A dermatologist can diagnose hormonal acne based on your symptoms, your skin pattern, and your personal history. They may ask questions like:

• Do breakouts happen around your period
• Are the pimples painful and deep
• Do you have irregular periods
• Do you have sudden changes in hair growth
• Does acne run in your family

For women with very severe acne, the doctor might check hormone levels or recommend testing for PCOS.

Most cases are diagnosed without a lab test because the pattern is recognizable.

 

Treatments for Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne requires a combination of skincare, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication. Because hormones influence the oil glands, treatments must balance hormone activity or reduce inflammation and clogged pores.

Here are the most effective methods.

1. Skincare Treatments

Skincare alone may not cure hormonal acne, but it can reduce breakouts and prevent clogged pores.

Salicylic Acid

Helps unclog pores and prevent buildup of dead skin cells.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Reduces bacteria and helps calm inflammatory pimples.

Retinoids

Retinoids increase cell turnover and prevent clogged pores. They also help reduce dark marks left from acne.

Niacinamide

Helps control oil, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the skin barrier.

Clay Masks

Clay absorbs excess oil and helps prevent new breakouts.

Oil Free and Non Comedogenic Products

Heavy products can clog pores. Choose lightweight formulas that do not trap oil.

2. Hormonal Treatments

These treatments address the root cause of hormonal acne. They are usually recommended for moderate to severe cases.

Birth Control Pills

Some birth control pills help control acne by regulating hormones. They reduce androgen levels, which decreases oil production. Not all pills help, so a doctor must choose the right one.

Spironolactone

A medication that reduces the effect of androgens on the oil glands. It is often used in women with stubborn hormonal acne, especially around the jawline and chin.

Hormone Therapy for PCOS

If acne is caused by PCOS, treating the underlying condition can improve breakouts.

3. Prescription Medications

A dermatologist may prescribe stronger options.

Topical Retinoids

More powerful versions than drugstore retinoids.

Oral Antibiotics

Used for short periods to reduce inflammation, but they do not address hormones and are usually not a long term solution.

Isotretinoin

A strong medication for severe acne. It reduces oil production permanently for many people. This is usually used only when other treatments do not work.

4. Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle habits can influence hormone levels and skin health.

Manage Stress

Stress raises cortisol and can lead to breakouts. Helpful activities include:

• Deep breathing
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Regular sleep
• Light exercise

Healthy Diet

While food does not directly cause acne, certain choices can help balance hormones.
Foods that may help include:

• Vegetables
• Lean proteins
• Whole grains
• Omega 3 rich foods like salmon
• Low sugar fruits
• Nuts and seeds

Foods that may worsen acne for some people include:

• Sugary snacks
• Dairy
• Highly processed foods

Regular Movement

Exercise helps manage stress and improve blood flow to the skin.

Stay Hydrated

Water supports healthy skin and helps regulate oil production.

5. Professional Treatments

Dermatologists and skin clinics may use treatments to speed up healing and reduce scars.

Chemical Peels

Help clear clogged pores and improve texture.

Laser Therapy

Reduces inflammation and targets deeper acne lesions.

Extraction

Removes blackheads or large clogged pores.

Light Therapy

Blue and red light can reduce bacteria and inflammation.

These treatments work best when combined with a good skincare routine.

 

Home Remedies That May Help

Some natural remedies can support hormonal acne treatment when used safely.

Tea Tree Oil

Has antibacterial and anti inflammatory qualities. Use diluted to avoid irritation.

Aloe Vera

Soothes inflammation and helps calm irritated skin.

Green Tea

Green tea extract or green tea toner can help reduce oil and redness.

Honey

Raw honey may help with inflammation and skin healing.

Zinc Supplements

Zinc supports hormone balance and skin health in some cases.

These remedies can help mild acne but may not be enough for severe hormonal acne.

 

Common Mistakes That Make Hormonal Acne Worse

Many people accidentally make choices that increase breakouts. Here are mistakes to avoid.

1. Picking or Squeezing Pimples

This can cause scars, infections, and more inflammation.

2. Over Washing the Skin

Cleansing too often strips natural oils and makes the skin produce even more oil.

3. Using Harsh Scrubs

Scrubbing irritates inflamed skin and worsens acne.

4. Skincare With Heavy Oils

Coconut oil, shea butter, and many plant oils can clog pores for people with acne prone skin.

5. Ignoring Diet and Stress

Both can affect hormone activity.

6. Using Too Many Products at Once

Too many products irritate the skin and confuse the skin barrier.

7. Stopping Treatment Too Soon

Hormonal acne takes time to improve. Many treatments need several weeks or even months.

 

Can Hormonal Acne Be Cured

Hormonal acne can be controlled and improved, but it may return if hormones change again. For example, breakouts may appear during stress, period cycles, pregnancy, or changes in medication. Some people may need long term management instead of a single cure.

The good news is that with the right routine and medical guidance, most people can achieve clear skin and prevent severe breakouts.

 

How Long Does Hormonal Acne Take to Heal

Healing time depends on the treatment used and how severe the acne is. Here is a general timeline.

• Mild cases can improve in four to six weeks
• Moderate acne may take two to three months
• Severe acne may take three to six months or more
• Hormonal treatments like birth control or spironolactone may take two to four months to show full results

Consistency is the key to long term success.

 

Tips to Prevent Hormonal Acne

Even if hormones are hard to control, these habits can reduce breakouts and improve skin health.

1. Use Gentle Skincare

Cleanse with a gentle cleanser twice a day. Avoid harsh scrubbing or stripping products.

2. Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Use a lightweight moisturizer to maintain a strong skin barrier.

3. Choose Oil Free Products

This prevents clogged pores.

4. Reduce Stress When Possible

Stress directly influences hormone levels.

5. Eat Foods That Support Skin Health

Focus on whole and balanced meals.

6. Get Enough Sleep

Lack of sleep increases stress hormones and can trigger breakouts.

7. Avoid Touching Your Face

Touch spreads bacteria and oils.

8. Wash Pillowcases Often

Pillowcases hold oil and sweat that can clog pores.

9. Do Not Skip Sunscreen

Use a non comedogenic sunscreen to protect against dark marks.

10. Be Consistent With Treatments

Hormonal acne improves with regular care.

 

When to See a Dermatologist

You should see a dermatologist if:

• Your acne is severe or painful
• You develop cysts or nodules
• Your acne causes dark marks or scars
• Over the counter treatments do not help
• You suspect PCOS or hormonal imbalance
• Acne affects your confidence or daily life

A dermatologist can help identify the root cause and give stronger treatments.

 

Hormonal Acne in Men

Men can also get hormonal acne, although the pattern may differ. Men naturally have higher testosterone levels, which increases oil production. Hormonal acne in men often appears on the back, chest, and face.

Some triggers in men include:

• Stress
• Steroid use
• Testosterone boosting supplements
• Puberty
• Poor shaving habits

Men can treat hormonal acne with the same skincare strategies, along with lifestyle changes. In some cases, doctors may evaluate hormones or medications.

 

Hormonal Acne in Women

Women experience hormonal acne more often because their hormone levels shift through each month and through different stages of life. This includes:

• Menstrual cycles
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Birth control use
• Birth control removal
• Perimenopause
• Menopause

Women may notice jawline breakouts, chin pimples, and painful cysts during these times. Hormonal treatments such as birth control or spironolactone can be especially helpful for women.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Hormonal Acne

1. Can diet cause hormonal acne

Diet does not directly cause acne, but certain foods can raise blood sugar and increase oil production.

2. Is hormonal acne contagious

No. It cannot spread from person to person.

3. Will hormonal acne go away on its own

Mild cases may fade, but moderate or severe cases usually need treatment.

4. Does drinking water help

Water supports overall skin health, but it does not cure acne alone.

5. Can hormonal acne leave scars

Yes. Deep cysts can leave scars if not treated early.

6. Can makeup make hormonal acne worse

Makeup that clogs pores can worsen acne. Always use non comedogenic products.

7. Can teenagers and adults get hormonal acne

Yes. People of all ages can experience it.

 

Conclusion

Hormonal acne can be stubborn and emotionally challenging, but understanding the cause is the first step toward healing. Hormones influence oil production, inflammation, and skin sensitivity. When these levels shift, breakouts can follow. The good news is that hormonal acne can be managed with the right combination of treatments, skincare, and lifestyle changes.

Consistency is important. Acne does not disappear overnight, but with steady care, most people can achieve clearer skin and prevent painful flare ups. Whether you choose medical treatment, gentle skincare, or a mix of both, you have options that can help you feel confident again.