How Do Hormones Affect Your Skin?

How Hormones Impact the Skin

• Hormones Control Oil Production
• Sebaceous Glands: Hormones like androgens (testosterone, dihydrotestosterone) stimulate sebaceous glands to produce sebum (oil). While sebum helps keep skin hydrated and protected, overproduction can clog pores, causing acne.
• Hormones Affect Skin Cell Turnover
• Oestrogen: This hormone helps regulate skin cell turnover, collagen production, and hydration. When oestrogen levels drop (e.g., during menopause), skin renewal slows, leading to thinning, dryness, and fine lines.
• Hormones Influence Collagen and Elasticity
• Oestrogen and Progesterone: These hormones promote collagen production and skin elasticity, keeping skin firm and youthful. A decrease in oestrogen, such as during aging, reduces collagen, making the skin sag and wrinkle.
• Cortisol (Stress Hormone): Chronic high cortisol levels can break down collagen and elastin, speeding up skin aging.
• Hormones Trigger Skin Inflammation
• Cortisol: Stress-related cortisol increases inflammation in the body and skin, which can worsen conditions like acne, eczema, or rosacea.
• Hormones Impact Pigmentation
• Melanocytes: Hormones like oestrogen and progesterone influence melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment. During pregnancy or hormonal changes (e.g., from birth control), this can lead to melasma (dark patches).
• Hormones Regulate Blood Flow
• Oestrogen: Enhances blood circulation, giving skin a healthy glow. When oestrogen levels drop, blood flow to the skin decreases, leading to dullness.

Symptoms of Hormonal Acne

•  Location on the Face and Body
• Commonly appears on the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks.
• Can also affect the neck, shoulders, chest, and back.
• Type of Acne Lesions
• Deep, cystic breakouts (painful, under-the-skin bumps that don’t come to a head).
• Inflamed papules and pustules (red, swollen pimples with or without pus).
• Blackheads and whiteheads (clogged pores).
• Cyclic Breakouts
• Flares up around the menstrual cycle (for women).
• Can worsen during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or due to stress.
• Oily Skin & Enlarged Pores
• Increased sebum production makes the skin appear greasy or shiny.
• Pores may look larger and more noticeable, especially around the nose and chin.
• Slow Healing & Scarring
• Pimples linger longer than usual and can leave behind dark marks or scars.
• Tends to be resistant to typical over-the-counter treatments.

How to Control Hormonal Acne

1. Follow a Consistent Skincare Routine

• Cleanse Gently: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser twice daily to remove excess oil without stripping your skin.
• Exfoliate Weekly: Use chemical exfoliants with salicylic acid (BHA) or glycolic acid (AHA) to unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
• Moisturise: Opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers to maintain hydration without clogging pores.
• Sunscreen: Always wear SPF 30 or higher to prevent acne scars and dark spots from worsening.

1. Incorporate Targeted Treatments

• Retinoids: Over-the-counter retinol or prescription-strength tretinoin promotes cell turnover and prevents clogged pores.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: Reduces bacteria and inflammation in acne-prone areas.
• Niacinamide: Calms inflammation, regulates oil production, and improves skin texture.
• Spot Treatments: Use products with sulphur or tea tree oil to target active breakouts.

1. Balance Your Hormones

• Dietary Adjustments:
• Reduce sugar, dairy, and processed foods that can spike insulin and trigger androgen production.
• Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed).
• Supplements:
• Zinc: Reduces inflammation and supports skin healing.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Balances oil production and reduces hormonal fluctuations.
• Spearmint Tea: May lower androgen levels, reducing acne in some cases.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support overall skin health.

1. Manage Stress

• High stress increases cortisol levels, which can worsen hormonal acne. Incorporate stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or exercise into your routine.

1. Consider Medical Treatments

• Oral Contraceptives: Birth control pills containing oestrogen and progesterone can balance hormones and reduce acne.
• Spironolactone: A prescription medication that blocks androgens to reduce oil production.
• Isotretinoin (Accutane): For severe, persistent acne, isotretinoin is highly effective but requires close medical supervision.
• Hormonal Therapy: If acne is linked to conditions like PCOS, consult with an endocrinologist or gynaecologist for hormonal-regulating treatments.

1. Avoid Common Triggers

• Skip harsh scrubs, overly drying products, or heavy makeup that can worsen acne.
• Avoid touching your face or picking at pimples, as this can cause scarring.

1. Be Patient

• Hormonal acne often takes time to improve, even with consistent care. Most treatments, especially hormonal ones, can take 6-12 weeks to show significant results.
• If your acne persists or severely affects your confidence, consult a dermatologist who can tailor treatments to your skin type and hormonal profile.