These Are the Hormonal Acne Treatments Dermatologists Swear By
Plus, how to prevent it.
Stocksy
Key Takeaways
- Hormonal acne often appears as painful cysts on the lower face due to hormonal fluctuations, especially before menstruation.
- Dermatologists recommend using topical benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid to clear pores and reduce hormonal acne outbreaks.
- Stress can worsen hormonal acne by triggering inflammation; managing stress through sleep and yoga may help alleviate symptoms.
Hormonal acne may have a cyclical pattern, but that doesn’t mean we’re any less-than-pleasantly surprised whenever it rears its head. Hormonal fluctuations can trigger an acne breakout at any time and just about any stage in your life. But, you don’t need to be going through a major life transition to experience hormonal acne. It can also appear month after month with your menstrual cycle or surge with lifestyle changes. With little control over our hormones, painful bumps and cysts can feel inevitable—but they don’t have to be.
To help us best understand how to navigate hormonal acne, we tapped skincare professionals including several board-certified dermatologists, and asked them for their expert advice. But first, they helped break down exactly what hormonal acne is, where you can find it, and what causes it in the first place. Their answers, below.
Meet the Experts
- Elyse M. Love, MD, is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and co-host of the Beauty Curious podcast.
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, is the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology and assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.
- Annie Tevelin is the founder of the skincare brand SkinOwl.
- Katie Rodan, MD, is a dermatologist and co-founder of Rodan + Fields.
- Jeremy Fenton, MD, is a dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Manhattan.
- Kimberly Snyder is a holistic nutritionist, wellness expert, and host of the Feel Good podcast. She is also the founder of Solluna, a holistic lifestyle brand.
What Is Hormonal Acne?
“The term hormonal acne is typically used to describe adult-onset female acne, as there tends to be a strong hormonal component to this type,” explains Elyse M. Love, MD, a NYC-based dermatologist. She goes on to say that this acne can can present in your 20s, 30s, and 40s, and impact both those who have experienced cystic breakouts before and those who haven’t.
What Does Hormonal Acne Look Like?
“Hormonal acne is almost always cystic and inflammatory in nature,” says Dr. Love. “It presents with painful red papules, pustules, and deep cysts on the lower face, and it can create long-term scarring (especially if you attempt to pop it). At its mildest form, hormonal acne presents with a breakout or two near menstruation, but for many, it can persist all month long.”
She explains that hormonal acne most commonly occurs on the lower face (on the lower cheeks, jawline, chin) and body (across the chest, back, and shoulders), but can also present between the brows.
Causes of Hormonal Acne
According to board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, there are two main indicators of whether your acne is, in fact, due to hormones: Your breakouts happen along the lower third of your face, and they get worse before your period when there is an excess build-up of testosterone.
Besides your menstrual cycle, there are a few other instances that can trigger hormonal acne. Pregnancy and the fluctuating hormones that come along with it, for one. Also, the decline in reproductive hormones (aka menopause) can cause hormonal acne due to your body adjusting to fluctuating levels. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is another culprit. It can occur in women at a reproductive age and causes a fluctuation in hormones that can increase the length of your menstrual cycle, cause obesity, and result in breakouts.
How to Treat Hormonal Acne
“Preventing hormonal acne might seem like a tall order— it is caused by your hormones, after all— but there are a few things you can do,” says Dr. Love. It requires some lifestyle changes. These breakouts come from an imbalance of hormones in the body, so you need to get to the root of the cause to determine the right hormonal acne treatment.
Ahead, dermatologists share their best tips for how to help treat hormonal acne.
Monitor Your Hormone Imbalances With a Test
“When it comes to hormonal acne, the body inhabits a strong sensitivity to androgens, more specifically testosterone,” says the skincare brand, SkinOwl, founder, Annie Tevelin, who suffered from cystic acne herself. Studies estimate that approximately 50 percent of women aged 20 to 29 experience hormonal acne. To make sure hormones are the root cause, Tevelin suggests you “run an in-depth hormone panel blood test and test it throughout the month to make sure your hormone levels are stable.” Because the hormonal cascade fluctuates depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, she suggests testing several times throughout the month. We recommend Everlywell’s Women’s Health Test, an at-home hormone level test to monitor any hormone imbalances.
Clear Pores With Benzoyl Peroxide
“By far and away, the best topical medicine for acne is benzoyl peroxide,” says dermatologist, Katie Rodan, MD. “Nothing, not even antibiotics, beat it when it comes to killing bacteria and clearing pores for the long-term without antibiotic resistance.” Benzoyl peroxide is so powerful because it’s antimicrobial, meaning it zaps acne-causing bacteria and keeps pimples from coming back.
Dr. Zeichner recommends using benzoyl peroxide in concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 10 percent for maximum benefits. It works best when left on the skin in the form of a lightweight lotion, but some cleansers and masks containing benzoyl peroxide can remain on the skin in an effective concentration after they’ve been washed off- if they’ve been formulated to do so. Try Humane’s Acne Spot Treatment Gel, which contains five percent benzoyl peroxide along with soothing ingredients like aloe vera gel and cucumber extract.
Consider Your Diet to Avoid a Hormonal Imbalance
How to treat hormonal acne has a lot to do with your diet, namely the consumption of dairy. “Studies have shown that dairy can worsen acne,” says dermatologist, Jeremy Fenton, MD. “Dairy has been shown to stimulate testosterone production in people who consume it, and spikes in testosterone can worsen acne. Dairy also naturally contains its own hormones, such as estrogen, which can exert their own impact on a person’s hormonal balance.” The worst culprit, believe it or not, isskim milk and fat-free dairy. Dr. Fenton explains that removing fat from dairy makes it more concentrated and causes it to be absorbed by the body faster, meaning hormonal spikes occur more quickly.
Foods high in sugar are another culprit to blame. “I would recommend avoiding refined flour, sweets, and processed carbohydrates,” says Dr. Fenton. “The exact mechanism isn’t known for certain, but we believe that these refined carbs lead to an insulin spike, which causes a hormonal cascade that can increase inflammation and oil production.”
Clean Up Your Skincare
Hormonal acne may be caused by hormonal imbalances, but using non-acne-safe skincare products can exacerbate the breakouts. Adhere to a simple routine that allows you to monitor the ingredients being used and how they affect the skin. Consider non-comedogenic products your guiding lights as they won’t clog pores and create more acne difficulties for you in the future.
Exfoliate With Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a game-changer for maintaining squeaky-clean pores. The best concentration of salicylic acid is up to two percent when you’re choosing an over-the-counter product. You want to look for a product that unclogs pores without over-sensitizing the skin, which could lead to further breakouts from irritation. We suggest First Aid Beauty’s White Clay Acne Treatment Pads as they contain the maximum strength of two-percent salicylic acid meant to minimize inflammation in existing acne flare-ups and also keep new ones at bay.
Limit Stress to Reduce Inflammation
Ever heard of a stress zit? Being on edge is not only bad for your mindset but also aggravates your skin. “Stress triggers the release of a variety of hormones that can trigger an inflammatory response in the body,” says Dr. Fenton. “Inflammation is a major part of acne—that’s what leads to those large and deep red cystic pimples. Anything you can do to reduce inflammation will be helpful for your acne.”
When it comes to lifestyle adjustments, Kimberly Snyder, a holistic nutritionist, says to make sleep a priority: “Sleep fights stress and helps your body and hormonal systems function.” Additionally, she recommends upping your water intake, dry brushing, and exercise (she loves yoga) to help manage and relieve stress.
Check Your Gut Health
According to Snyder staying on top of gut health (which has been linked to acne) is crucial to maintain hormonal balance. But there’s more to gut health than avoiding inflammatory or acne-causing foods. Snyder suggests incorporating a quality probiotic to restore gut health.
Try an Oral Contraceptive to Balance Hormones
If you’re comfortable and if a gynecologist says you’re a good candidate, oral contraceptives can help balance out your hormones, including those that are responsible for acne. Dr. Zeichner says that the best prescription options for hormonal acne are birth control pills and Spironolactone (more on that in a second). Birth control pills help regulate your hormones and decrease testosterone levels, which can mean fewer hormone-induced breakouts.
“Certain oral contraceptives have even been approved by the FDA to be used in the treatment of acne,” explains Dr. Fenton. “If you are already on birth control or thinking of going on it, make sure to ask your gynecologist for an oral contraceptive that will also help your acne.” Dr. Zeichner notes the four birth control pills currently approved for acne: Yaz, Beyaz, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, and EstroStep.
Another option is the aforementioned Spironolactone. Though not specifically designed to treat acne–its intended use is for treating high blood pressure–it is often used for exactly that purpose because it prevents testosterone from stimulating the oil glands: “Less oil means less shine, fewer clogged pores, and less food to feed acne-causing bacteria,” Dr. Zeichner explains.
Maintain a Preventative Skincare Routine
The number-one threat to maintaining any kind of results is falling off a perfectly good routine once you achieve your goal. A preventative skincare routine isn’t one with a finish line, but rather a disciplined regimen that should be sustained even after the acne disappears. (Again, hormonal acne has a cyclical pattern.) If you’ve found topical retinoids and exfoliants that work for you, continue using them to maintain those results. Additionally, Dr. Fenton recommends using an OTC acne wash and non-comedogenic moisturizer regularly.
Try LED Light Therapy
Blue light therapy is popularly known for having many antibacterial properties that help keep acne at bay. Additionally, it helps keep skin bump-free thanks to its anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating benefits. We recommend the Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro mask and using it for three minutes a day.
Get a Chemical Peel
Chemical exfoliants help remove dead skin cells from the surface so new, fresh cells take center stage. If over-the-counter skincare solutions aren’t cutting it, consider dialing up the percentage with a professional treatment. Apart from helping keep skin looking radiant, chemical peels prevent acne and help skincare products better penetrate the skin.
Consider Zinc Supplements
“Zinc is anti-inflammatory and can provide natural benefits for acne,” says Dr. Love. “Most studies have been performed with oral zinc supplements, but topical zinc is likely also helpful.”
See a Dermatologist For a Prescription Treatment
If topical solutions and lifestyle changes aren’t working, seeing a skin care professional will help you approach treatment in the best way possible. If you haven’t noticed an improvement in your hormonal acne after two weeks of intentional changes, it’s time to loop in a dermatologist for a more specialized regimen. They can also provide in-office extractions or steroid injections to decrease inflammation quickly.
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These Are the Hormonal Acne Treatments Dermatologists Swear By
Plus, how to prevent it.
Stocksy
Key Takeaways
- Hormonal acne often appears as painful cysts on the lower face due to hormonal fluctuations, especially before menstruation.
- Dermatologists recommend using topical benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid to clear pores and reduce hormonal acne outbreaks.
- Stress can worsen hormonal acne by triggering inflammation; managing stress through sleep and yoga may help alleviate symptoms.
Hormonal acne may have a cyclical pattern, but that doesn’t mean we’re any less-than-pleasantly surprised whenever it rears its head. Hormonal fluctuations can trigger an acne breakout at any time and just about any stage in your life. But, you don’t need to be going through a major life transition to experience hormonal acne. It can also appear month after month with your menstrual cycle or surge with lifestyle changes. With little control over our hormones, painful bumps and cysts can feel inevitable—but they don’t have to be.
To help us best understand how to navigate hormonal acne, we tapped skincare professionals including several board-certified dermatologists, and asked them for their expert advice. But first, they helped break down exactly what hormonal acne is, where you can find it, and what causes it in the first place. Their answers, below.
Meet the Experts
- Elyse M. Love, MD, is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and co-host of the Beauty Curious podcast.
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, is the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology and assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.
- Annie Tevelin is the founder of the skincare brand SkinOwl.
- Katie Rodan, MD, is a dermatologist and co-founder of Rodan + Fields.
- Jeremy Fenton, MD, is a dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Manhattan.
- Kimberly Snyder is a holistic nutritionist, wellness expert, and host of the Feel Good podcast. She is also the founder of Solluna, a holistic lifestyle brand.
What Is Hormonal Acne?
“The term hormonal acne is typically used to describe adult-onset female acne, as there tends to be a strong hormonal component to this type,” explains Elyse M. Love, MD, a NYC-based dermatologist. She goes on to say that this acne can can present in your 20s, 30s, and 40s, and impact both those who have experienced cystic breakouts before and those who haven’t.
What Does Hormonal Acne Look Like?
“Hormonal acne is almost always cystic and inflammatory in nature,” says Dr. Love. “It presents with painful red papules, pustules, and deep cysts on the lower face, and it can create long-term scarring (especially if you attempt to pop it). At its mildest form, hormonal acne presents with a breakout or two near menstruation, but for many, it can persist all month long.”
She explains that hormonal acne most commonly occurs on the lower face (on the lower cheeks, jawline, chin) and body (across the chest, back, and shoulders), but can also present between the brows.
Causes of Hormonal Acne
According to board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, there are two main indicators of whether your acne is, in fact, due to hormones: Your breakouts happen along the lower third of your face, and they get worse before your period when there is an excess build-up of testosterone.
Besides your menstrual cycle, there are a few other instances that can trigger hormonal acne. Pregnancy and the fluctuating hormones that come along with it, for one. Also, the decline in reproductive hormones (aka menopause) can cause hormonal acne due to your body adjusting to fluctuating levels. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is another culprit. It can occur in women at a reproductive age and causes a fluctuation in hormones that can increase the length of your menstrual cycle, cause obesity, and result in breakouts.
How to Treat Hormonal Acne
“Preventing hormonal acne might seem like a tall order— it is caused by your hormones, after all— but there are a few things you can do,” says Dr. Love. It requires some lifestyle changes. These breakouts come from an imbalance of hormones in the body, so you need to get to the root of the cause to determine the right hormonal acne treatment.
Ahead, dermatologists share their best tips for how to help treat hormonal acne.
Monitor Your Hormone Imbalances With a Test
“When it comes to hormonal acne, the body inhabits a strong sensitivity to androgens, more specifically testosterone,” says the skincare brand, SkinOwl, founder, Annie Tevelin, who suffered from cystic acne herself. Studies estimate that approximately 50 percent of women aged 20 to 29 experience hormonal acne. To make sure hormones are the root cause, Tevelin suggests you “run an in-depth hormone panel blood test and test it throughout the month to make sure your hormone levels are stable.” Because the hormonal cascade fluctuates depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, she suggests testing several times throughout the month. We recommend Everlywell’s Women’s Health Test, an at-home hormone level test to monitor any hormone imbalances.
Clear Pores With Benzoyl Peroxide
“By far and away, the best topical medicine for acne is benzoyl peroxide,” says dermatologist, Katie Rodan, MD. “Nothing, not even antibiotics, beat it when it comes to killing bacteria and clearing pores for the long-term without antibiotic resistance.” Benzoyl peroxide is so powerful because it’s antimicrobial, meaning it zaps acne-causing bacteria and keeps pimples from coming back.
Dr. Zeichner recommends using benzoyl peroxide in concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 10 percent for maximum benefits. It works best when left on the skin in the form of a lightweight lotion, but some cleansers and masks containing benzoyl peroxide can remain on the skin in an effective concentration after they’ve been washed off- if they’ve been formulated to do so. Try Humane’s Acne Spot Treatment Gel, which contains five percent benzoyl peroxide along with soothing ingredients like aloe vera gel and cucumber extract.
Consider Your Diet to Avoid a Hormonal Imbalance
How to treat hormonal acne has a lot to do with your diet, namely the consumption of dairy. “Studies have shown that dairy can worsen acne,” says dermatologist, Jeremy Fenton, MD. “Dairy has been shown to stimulate testosterone production in people who consume it, and spikes in testosterone can worsen acne. Dairy also naturally contains its own hormones, such as estrogen, which can exert their own impact on a person’s hormonal balance.” The worst culprit, believe it or not, isskim milk and fat-free dairy. Dr. Fenton explains that removing fat from dairy makes it more concentrated and causes it to be absorbed by the body faster, meaning hormonal spikes occur more quickly.
Foods high in sugar are another culprit to blame. “I would recommend avoiding refined flour, sweets, and processed carbohydrates,” says Dr. Fenton. “The exact mechanism isn’t known for certain, but we believe that these refined carbs lead to an insulin spike, which causes a hormonal cascade that can increase inflammation and oil production.”
Clean Up Your Skincare
Hormonal acne may be caused by hormonal imbalances, but using non-acne-safe skincare products can exacerbate the breakouts. Adhere to a simple routine that allows you to monitor the ingredients being used and how they affect the skin. Consider non-comedogenic products your guiding lights as they won’t clog pores and create more acne difficulties for you in the future.
Exfoliate With Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a game-changer for maintaining squeaky-clean pores. The best concentration of salicylic acid is up to two percent when you’re choosing an over-the-counter product. You want to look for a product that unclogs pores without over-sensitizing the skin, which could lead to further breakouts from irritation. We suggest First Aid Beauty’s White Clay Acne Treatment Pads as they contain the maximum strength of two-percent salicylic acid meant to minimize inflammation in existing acne flare-ups and also keep new ones at bay.
Limit Stress to Reduce Inflammation
Ever heard of a stress zit? Being on edge is not only bad for your mindset but also aggravates your skin. “Stress triggers the release of a variety of hormones that can trigger an inflammatory response in the body,” says Dr. Fenton. “Inflammation is a major part of acne—that’s what leads to those large and deep red cystic pimples. Anything you can do to reduce inflammation will be helpful for your acne.”
When it comes to lifestyle adjustments, Kimberly Snyder, a holistic nutritionist, says to make sleep a priority: “Sleep fights stress and helps your body and hormonal systems function.” Additionally, she recommends upping your water intake, dry brushing, and exercise (she loves yoga) to help manage and relieve stress.
Check Your Gut Health
According to Snyder staying on top of gut health (which has been linked to acne) is crucial to maintain hormonal balance. But there’s more to gut health than avoiding inflammatory or acne-causing foods. Snyder suggests incorporating a quality probiotic to restore gut health.
Try an Oral Contraceptive to Balance Hormones
If you’re comfortable and if a gynecologist says you’re a good candidate, oral contraceptives can help balance out your hormones, including those that are responsible for acne. Dr. Zeichner says that the best prescription options for hormonal acne are birth control pills and Spironolactone (more on that in a second). Birth control pills help regulate your hormones and decrease testosterone levels, which can mean fewer hormone-induced breakouts.
“Certain oral contraceptives have even been approved by the FDA to be used in the treatment of acne,” explains Dr. Fenton. “If you are already on birth control or thinking of going on it, make sure to ask your gynecologist for an oral contraceptive that will also help your acne.” Dr. Zeichner notes the four birth control pills currently approved for acne: Yaz, Beyaz, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, and EstroStep.
Another option is the aforementioned Spironolactone. Though not specifically designed to treat acne–its intended use is for treating high blood pressure–it is often used for exactly that purpose because it prevents testosterone from stimulating the oil glands: “Less oil means less shine, fewer clogged pores, and less food to feed acne-causing bacteria,” Dr. Zeichner explains.
Maintain a Preventative Skincare Routine
The number-one threat to maintaining any kind of results is falling off a perfectly good routine once you achieve your goal. A preventative skincare routine isn’t one with a finish line, but rather a disciplined regimen that should be sustained even after the acne disappears. (Again, hormonal acne has a cyclical pattern.) If you’ve found topical retinoids and exfoliants that work for you, continue using them to maintain those results. Additionally, Dr. Fenton recommends using an OTC acne wash and non-comedogenic moisturizer regularly.
Try LED Light Therapy
Blue light therapy is popularly known for having many antibacterial properties that help keep acne at bay. Additionally, it helps keep skin bump-free thanks to its anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating benefits. We recommend the Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro mask and using it for three minutes a day.
Get a Chemical Peel
Chemical exfoliants help remove dead skin cells from the surface so new, fresh cells take center stage. If over-the-counter skincare solutions aren’t cutting it, consider dialing up the percentage with a professional treatment. Apart from helping keep skin looking radiant, chemical peels prevent acne and help skincare products better penetrate the skin.
Consider Zinc Supplements
“Zinc is anti-inflammatory and can provide natural benefits for acne,” says Dr. Love. “Most studies have been performed with oral zinc supplements, but topical zinc is likely also helpful.”
See a Dermatologist For a Prescription Treatment
If topical solutions and lifestyle changes aren’t working, seeing a skin care professional will help you approach treatment in the best way possible. If you haven’t noticed an improvement in your hormonal acne after two weeks of intentional changes, it’s time to loop in a dermatologist for a more specialized regimen. They can also provide in-office extractions or steroid injections to decrease inflammation quickly.
Stocksy
Key Takeaways
- Hormonal acne often appears as painful cysts on the lower face due to hormonal fluctuations, especially before menstruation.
- Dermatologists recommend using topical benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid to clear pores and reduce hormonal acne outbreaks.
- Stress can worsen hormonal acne by triggering inflammation; managing stress through sleep and yoga may help alleviate symptoms.
Hormonal acne may have a cyclical pattern, but that doesn’t mean we’re any less-than-pleasantly surprised whenever it rears its head. Hormonal fluctuations can trigger an acne breakout at any time and just about any stage in your life. But, you don’t need to be going through a major life transition to experience hormonal acne. It can also appear month after month with your menstrual cycle or surge with lifestyle changes. With little control over our hormones, painful bumps and cysts can feel inevitable—but they don’t have to be.
To help us best understand how to navigate hormonal acne, we tapped skincare professionals including several board-certified dermatologists, and asked them for their expert advice. But first, they helped break down exactly what hormonal acne is, where you can find it, and what causes it in the first place. Their answers, below.
Meet the Experts
- Elyse M. Love, MD, is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and co-host of the Beauty Curious podcast.
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, is the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology and assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.
- Annie Tevelin is the founder of the skincare brand SkinOwl.
- Katie Rodan, MD, is a dermatologist and co-founder of Rodan + Fields.
- Jeremy Fenton, MD, is a dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Manhattan.
- Kimberly Snyder is a holistic nutritionist, wellness expert, and host of the Feel Good podcast. She is also the founder of Solluna, a holistic lifestyle brand.
What Is Hormonal Acne?
“The term hormonal acne is typically used to describe adult-onset female acne, as there tends to be a strong hormonal component to this type,” explains Elyse M. Love, MD, a NYC-based dermatologist. She goes on to say that this acne can can present in your 20s, 30s, and 40s, and impact both those who have experienced cystic breakouts before and those who haven’t.
What Does Hormonal Acne Look Like?
“Hormonal acne is almost always cystic and inflammatory in nature,” says Dr. Love. “It presents with painful red papules, pustules, and deep cysts on the lower face, and it can create long-term scarring (especially if you attempt to pop it). At its mildest form, hormonal acne presents with a breakout or two near menstruation, but for many, it can persist all month long.”
She explains that hormonal acne most commonly occurs on the lower face (on the lower cheeks, jawline, chin) and body (across the chest, back, and shoulders), but can also present between the brows.
Causes of Hormonal Acne
According to board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, there are two main indicators of whether your acne is, in fact, due to hormones: Your breakouts happen along the lower third of your face, and they get worse before your period when there is an excess build-up of testosterone.
Besides your menstrual cycle, there are a few other instances that can trigger hormonal acne. Pregnancy and the fluctuating hormones that come along with it, for one. Also, the decline in reproductive hormones (aka menopause) can cause hormonal acne due to your body adjusting to fluctuating levels. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is another culprit. It can occur in women at a reproductive age and causes a fluctuation in hormones that can increase the length of your menstrual cycle, cause obesity, and result in breakouts.
How to Treat Hormonal Acne
“Preventing hormonal acne might seem like a tall order— it is caused by your hormones, after all— but there are a few things you can do,” says Dr. Love. It requires some lifestyle changes. These breakouts come from an imbalance of hormones in the body, so you need to get to the root of the cause to determine the right hormonal acne treatment.
Ahead, dermatologists share their best tips for how to help treat hormonal acne.
Monitor Your Hormone Imbalances With a Test
“When it comes to hormonal acne, the body inhabits a strong sensitivity to androgens, more specifically testosterone,” says the skincare brand, SkinOwl, founder, Annie Tevelin, who suffered from cystic acne herself. Studies estimate that approximately 50 percent of women aged 20 to 29 experience hormonal acne. To make sure hormones are the root cause, Tevelin suggests you “run an in-depth hormone panel blood test and test it throughout the month to make sure your hormone levels are stable.” Because the hormonal cascade fluctuates depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, she suggests testing several times throughout the month. We recommend Everlywell’s Women’s Health Test, an at-home hormone level test to monitor any hormone imbalances.
Clear Pores With Benzoyl Peroxide
“By far and away, the best topical medicine for acne is benzoyl peroxide,” says dermatologist, Katie Rodan, MD. “Nothing, not even antibiotics, beat it when it comes to killing bacteria and clearing pores for the long-term without antibiotic resistance.” Benzoyl peroxide is so powerful because it’s antimicrobial, meaning it zaps acne-causing bacteria and keeps pimples from coming back.
Dr. Zeichner recommends using benzoyl peroxide in concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 10 percent for maximum benefits. It works best when left on the skin in the form of a lightweight lotion, but some cleansers and masks containing benzoyl peroxide can remain on the skin in an effective concentration after they’ve been washed off- if they’ve been formulated to do so. Try Humane’s Acne Spot Treatment Gel, which contains five percent benzoyl peroxide along with soothing ingredients like aloe vera gel and cucumber extract.
Consider Your Diet to Avoid a Hormonal Imbalance
How to treat hormonal acne has a lot to do with your diet, namely the consumption of dairy. “Studies have shown that dairy can worsen acne,” says dermatologist, Jeremy Fenton, MD. “Dairy has been shown to stimulate testosterone production in people who consume it, and spikes in testosterone can worsen acne. Dairy also naturally contains its own hormones, such as estrogen, which can exert their own impact on a person’s hormonal balance.” The worst culprit, believe it or not, isskim milk and fat-free dairy. Dr. Fenton explains that removing fat from dairy makes it more concentrated and causes it to be absorbed by the body faster, meaning hormonal spikes occur more quickly.
Foods high in sugar are another culprit to blame. “I would recommend avoiding refined flour, sweets, and processed carbohydrates,” says Dr. Fenton. “The exact mechanism isn’t known for certain, but we believe that these refined carbs lead to an insulin spike, which causes a hormonal cascade that can increase inflammation and oil production.”
Clean Up Your Skincare
Hormonal acne may be caused by hormonal imbalances, but using non-acne-safe skincare products can exacerbate the breakouts. Adhere to a simple routine that allows you to monitor the ingredients being used and how they affect the skin. Consider non-comedogenic products your guiding lights as they won’t clog pores and create more acne difficulties for you in the future.
Exfoliate With Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a game-changer for maintaining squeaky-clean pores. The best concentration of salicylic acid is up to two percent when you’re choosing an over-the-counter product. You want to look for a product that unclogs pores without over-sensitizing the skin, which could lead to further breakouts from irritation. We suggest First Aid Beauty’s White Clay Acne Treatment Pads as they contain the maximum strength of two-percent salicylic acid meant to minimize inflammation in existing acne flare-ups and also keep new ones at bay.
Limit Stress to Reduce Inflammation
Ever heard of a stress zit? Being on edge is not only bad for your mindset but also aggravates your skin. “Stress triggers the release of a variety of hormones that can trigger an inflammatory response in the body,” says Dr. Fenton. “Inflammation is a major part of acne—that’s what leads to those large and deep red cystic pimples. Anything you can do to reduce inflammation will be helpful for your acne.”
When it comes to lifestyle adjustments, Kimberly Snyder, a holistic nutritionist, says to make sleep a priority: “Sleep fights stress and helps your body and hormonal systems function.” Additionally, she recommends upping your water intake, dry brushing, and exercise (she loves yoga) to help manage and relieve stress.
Check Your Gut Health
According to Snyder staying on top of gut health (which has been linked to acne) is crucial to maintain hormonal balance. But there’s more to gut health than avoiding inflammatory or acne-causing foods. Snyder suggests incorporating a quality probiotic to restore gut health.
Try an Oral Contraceptive to Balance Hormones
If you’re comfortable and if a gynecologist says you’re a good candidate, oral contraceptives can help balance out your hormones, including those that are responsible for acne. Dr. Zeichner says that the best prescription options for hormonal acne are birth control pills and Spironolactone (more on that in a second). Birth control pills help regulate your hormones and decrease testosterone levels, which can mean fewer hormone-induced breakouts.
“Certain oral contraceptives have even been approved by the FDA to be used in the treatment of acne,” explains Dr. Fenton. “If you are already on birth control or thinking of going on it, make sure to ask your gynecologist for an oral contraceptive that will also help your acne.” Dr. Zeichner notes the four birth control pills currently approved for acne: Yaz, Beyaz, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, and EstroStep.
Another option is the aforementioned Spironolactone. Though not specifically designed to treat acne–its intended use is for treating high blood pressure–it is often used for exactly that purpose because it prevents testosterone from stimulating the oil glands: “Less oil means less shine, fewer clogged pores, and less food to feed acne-causing bacteria,” Dr. Zeichner explains.
Maintain a Preventative Skincare Routine
The number-one threat to maintaining any kind of results is falling off a perfectly good routine once you achieve your goal. A preventative skincare routine isn’t one with a finish line, but rather a disciplined regimen that should be sustained even after the acne disappears. (Again, hormonal acne has a cyclical pattern.) If you’ve found topical retinoids and exfoliants that work for you, continue using them to maintain those results. Additionally, Dr. Fenton recommends using an OTC acne wash and non-comedogenic moisturizer regularly.
Try LED Light Therapy
Blue light therapy is popularly known for having many antibacterial properties that help keep acne at bay. Additionally, it helps keep skin bump-free thanks to its anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating benefits. We recommend the Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro mask and using it for three minutes a day.
Get a Chemical Peel
Chemical exfoliants help remove dead skin cells from the surface so new, fresh cells take center stage. If over-the-counter skincare solutions aren’t cutting it, consider dialing up the percentage with a professional treatment. Apart from helping keep skin looking radiant, chemical peels prevent acne and help skincare products better penetrate the skin.
Consider Zinc Supplements
“Zinc is anti-inflammatory and can provide natural benefits for acne,” says Dr. Love. “Most studies have been performed with oral zinc supplements, but topical zinc is likely also helpful.”
See a Dermatologist For a Prescription Treatment
If topical solutions and lifestyle changes aren’t working, seeing a skin care professional will help you approach treatment in the best way possible. If you haven’t noticed an improvement in your hormonal acne after two weeks of intentional changes, it’s time to loop in a dermatologist for a more specialized regimen. They can also provide in-office extractions or steroid injections to decrease inflammation quickly.
Monitor Your Hormone Imbalances With a Test
“When it comes to hormonal acne, the body inhabits a strong sensitivity to androgens, more specifically testosterone,” says the skincare brand, SkinOwl, founder, Annie Tevelin, who suffered from cystic acne herself. Studies estimate that approximately 50 percent of women aged 20 to 29 experience hormonal acne. To make sure hormones are the root cause, Tevelin suggests you “run an in-depth hormone panel blood test and test it throughout the month to make sure your hormone levels are stable.” Because the hormonal cascade fluctuates depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, she suggests testing several times throughout the month. We recommend Everlywell’s Women’s Health Test, an at-home hormone level test to monitor any hormone imbalances.
Clear Pores With Benzoyl Peroxide
“By far and away, the best topical medicine for acne is benzoyl peroxide,” says dermatologist, Katie Rodan, MD. “Nothing, not even antibiotics, beat it when it comes to killing bacteria and clearing pores for the long-term without antibiotic resistance.” Benzoyl peroxide is so powerful because it’s antimicrobial, meaning it zaps acne-causing bacteria and keeps pimples from coming back.
Dr. Zeichner recommends using benzoyl peroxide in concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 10 percent for maximum benefits. It works best when left on the skin in the form of a lightweight lotion, but some cleansers and masks containing benzoyl peroxide can remain on the skin in an effective concentration after they’ve been washed off- if they’ve been formulated to do so. Try Humane’s Acne Spot Treatment Gel, which contains five percent benzoyl peroxide along with soothing ingredients like aloe vera gel and cucumber extract.
Consider Your Diet to Avoid a Hormonal Imbalance
How to treat hormonal acne has a lot to do with your diet, namely the consumption of dairy. “Studies have shown that dairy can worsen acne,” says dermatologist, Jeremy Fenton, MD. “Dairy has been shown to stimulate testosterone production in people who consume it, and spikes in testosterone can worsen acne. Dairy also naturally contains its own hormones, such as estrogen, which can exert their own impact on a person’s hormonal balance.” The worst culprit, believe it or not, isskim milk and fat-free dairy. Dr. Fenton explains that removing fat from dairy makes it more concentrated and causes it to be absorbed by the body faster, meaning hormonal spikes occur more quickly.
Foods high in sugar are another culprit to blame. “I would recommend avoiding refined flour, sweets, and processed carbohydrates,” says Dr. Fenton. “The exact mechanism isn’t known for certain, but we believe that these refined carbs lead to an insulin spike, which causes a hormonal cascade that can increase inflammation and oil production.”
Clean Up Your Skincare
Hormonal acne may be caused by hormonal imbalances, but using non-acne-safe skincare products can exacerbate the breakouts. Adhere to a simple routine that allows you to monitor the ingredients being used and how they affect the skin. Consider non-comedogenic products your guiding lights as they won’t clog pores and create more acne difficulties for you in the future.
Exfoliate With Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a game-changer for maintaining squeaky-clean pores. The best concentration of salicylic acid is up to two percent when you’re choosing an over-the-counter product. You want to look for a product that unclogs pores without over-sensitizing the skin, which could lead to further breakouts from irritation. We suggest First Aid Beauty’s White Clay Acne Treatment Pads as they contain the maximum strength of two-percent salicylic acid meant to minimize inflammation in existing acne flare-ups and also keep new ones at bay.
Limit Stress to Reduce Inflammation
Ever heard of a stress zit? Being on edge is not only bad for your mindset but also aggravates your skin. “Stress triggers the release of a variety of hormones that can trigger an inflammatory response in the body,” says Dr. Fenton. “Inflammation is a major part of acne—that’s what leads to those large and deep red cystic pimples. Anything you can do to reduce inflammation will be helpful for your acne.”
When it comes to lifestyle adjustments, Kimberly Snyder, a holistic nutritionist, says to make sleep a priority: “Sleep fights stress and helps your body and hormonal systems function.” Additionally, she recommends upping your water intake, dry brushing, and exercise (she loves yoga) to help manage and relieve stress.
Check Your Gut Health
According to Snyder staying on top of gut health (which has been linked to acne) is crucial to maintain hormonal balance. But there’s more to gut health than avoiding inflammatory or acne-causing foods. Snyder suggests incorporating a quality probiotic to restore gut health.
Try an Oral Contraceptive to Balance Hormones
If you’re comfortable and if a gynecologist says you’re a good candidate, oral contraceptives can help balance out your hormones, including those that are responsible for acne. Dr. Zeichner says that the best prescription options for hormonal acne are birth control pills and Spironolactone (more on that in a second). Birth control pills help regulate your hormones and decrease testosterone levels, which can mean fewer hormone-induced breakouts.
“Certain oral contraceptives have even been approved by the FDA to be used in the treatment of acne,” explains Dr. Fenton. “If you are already on birth control or thinking of going on it, make sure to ask your gynecologist for an oral contraceptive that will also help your acne.” Dr. Zeichner notes the four birth control pills currently approved for acne: Yaz, Beyaz, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, and EstroStep.
Another option is the aforementioned Spironolactone. Though not specifically designed to treat acne–its intended use is for treating high blood pressure–it is often used for exactly that purpose because it prevents testosterone from stimulating the oil glands: “Less oil means less shine, fewer clogged pores, and less food to feed acne-causing bacteria,” Dr. Zeichner explains.
Maintain a Preventative Skincare Routine
The number-one threat to maintaining any kind of results is falling off a perfectly good routine once you achieve your goal. A preventative skincare routine isn’t one with a finish line, but rather a disciplined regimen that should be sustained even after the acne disappears. (Again, hormonal acne has a cyclical pattern.) If you’ve found topical retinoids and exfoliants that work for you, continue using them to maintain those results. Additionally, Dr. Fenton recommends using an OTC acne wash and non-comedogenic moisturizer regularly.
Try LED Light Therapy
Blue light therapy is popularly known for having many antibacterial properties that help keep acne at bay. Additionally, it helps keep skin bump-free thanks to its anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating benefits. We recommend the Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro mask and using it for three minutes a day.
Get a Chemical Peel
Chemical exfoliants help remove dead skin cells from the surface so new, fresh cells take center stage. If over-the-counter skincare solutions aren’t cutting it, consider dialing up the percentage with a professional treatment. Apart from helping keep skin looking radiant, chemical peels prevent acne and help skincare products better penetrate the skin.
Consider Zinc Supplements
“Zinc is anti-inflammatory and can provide natural benefits for acne,” says Dr. Love. “Most studies have been performed with oral zinc supplements, but topical zinc is likely also helpful.”
See a Dermatologist For a Prescription Treatment
If topical solutions and lifestyle changes aren’t working, seeing a skin care professional will help you approach treatment in the best way possible. If you haven’t noticed an improvement in your hormonal acne after two weeks of intentional changes, it’s time to loop in a dermatologist for a more specialized regimen. They can also provide in-office extractions or steroid injections to decrease inflammation quickly.
Source URL: https://www.byrdie.com/how-to-treat-hormonal-acne-11892197