Hormonal Acne Treatment: What the Science Says and Why it Matters

We hear it all the time in clinic: “My skin always flares before my period.” Or “It’s like clockwork – every time I’m stressed, my chin breaks out.” Hormones are deeply connected to skin health, and when it comes to acne, they play a lead role.

The Hormonal Chain Reaction and Acne

Androgens (including testosterone) trigger oil glands to ramp up production. The more oil, the more chance for clogged pores and inflammation. But that’s not the only culprit. Another hormone called IGF-1 (influenced by diet, especially high-glycaemic foods – see below for advice on this) contributes too. It raises oil levels and makes skin more prone to breakouts.

Stress also has a say. It affects your skin through neuropeptides that influence how much oil your glands produce and how inflamed your skin becomes. That’s why emotional stress and acne often walk hand in hand.

Why Personalised Care Matters

Understanding the hormonal link helps us treat acne more effectively. It’s why we (and all good dermatologists) look at the full picture before recommending treatment. Sometimes the best approach is topical. Sometimes oral medication or hormone regulation. And for others, a non-hormonal route – like AviClear laser treatment – might be the better path.

When it comes to acne, knowing what’s driving your breakouts is half the battle. The right treatment starts with the right diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne responds well to a range of interventions. Start with benzoyl peroxide wash from the pharmacy and a light moisturiser (yes, really, moisturiser is important – La Roche Posay do a few good ones for oily skin). Topical treatments with retinol or azelaic acid can help reduce inflammation and pigmentation. Prescription options that target the sebum production, or combined oral contraceptives can regulate hormonal triggers. For those seeking a non-medication route, AviClear offers a targeted way to reduce oil production at the source.

Skincare, stress management, and diet all have a role to play too – best to chat it through with a dermatologist to find out exactly what is happening; we often find it is a multi-faceted approach to treatment works best.

If you’re not up to seeing a dermatologist then do keep your skincare simple, add in the wash/moisturiser recommended above, keep your blood sugar low, and manage stress (we know, not easy when you’re breaking out) can really help. If you have cystic spots, scarring, or spots that just won’t budge then it is important you see a dermatologist as they can cut down the time to clear skin.

Diet and Hormonal Acne

What options for Acne Treatment do you have at No. 23?