What Causes Hormonal Acne?
October 4, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Hormonal acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is primarily caused by hormonal fluctuations in the body, particularly an increase in androgen hormones. Androgens are male hormones that are present in both males and females, but they tend to be more pronounced in males. When androgen levels increase, they can stimulate the sebaceous (oil) glands in the skin to produce more oil, which can lead to the development of acne. Several factors can contribute to hormonal acne:
- Puberty: Hormonal changes during puberty, when androgen levels increase significantly, often lead to the development of acne. This is why acne is common among teenagers.
- Menstrual Cycle: Many women experience hormonal acne flare-ups around the time of their menstrual periods. This is due to the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle, specifically the increase in androgens.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in women that is characterized by high levels of androgens. This hormonal imbalance can lead to the development of acne, along with other symptoms like irregular periods and ovarian cysts.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the skin and lead to acne breakouts in some women. Some may also experience acne postpartum.
- Menopause: Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can trigger acne in some women.
- Stress: Chronic stress can lead to the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can affect androgen levels and potentially exacerbate acne.
- Medications: Certain medications, including hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills) and steroid medications, can influence hormone levels and contribute to acne as a side effect.
- Diet: While the relationship between diet and acne is complex and varies from person to person, some studies suggest that a high glycemic index diet (rich in sugary and processed foods) may contribute to hormonal acne in some individuals.
- Family History: Genetics can also play a role in the development of acne. If your parents or close relatives had acne, you may be more prone to it.
Hormonal acne typically manifests as deep, cystic acne lesions on the lower face, jawline, and neck, although it can occur on other parts of the body as well. Treatment options for hormonal acne may include topical and oral medications, lifestyle modifications (such as stress management and dietary changes), and hormonal therapy (such as birth control pills or anti-androgen medications) for individuals with more severe cases.
If you are experiencing persistent or severe acne, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. They can help determine the underlying cause of your acne and recommend appropriate interventions to manage it effectively.