Acne is one of the most common skin concerns, but not all breakouts are the same. Some develop due to clogged pores or surface bacteria, while others are triggered by changes inside the body. So, what is hormonal acne exactly?
Hormonal acne is caused by fluctuations in hormone levels and often appears as deeper, more persistent breakouts that affect both teenagers and adults. Recognising this form of acne is important because it behaves differently from regular acne and often requires a more tailored approach.
Understanding Hormonal Acne
Hormonal acne develops when shifts in hormone levels stimulate the skin’s oil glands. This leads to excess sebum, clogged pores and inflammation. The result is breakouts that are often painful and difficult to manage with everyday products.
These blemishes usually form along the jawline, chin and lower face. They tend to present as cystic spots that sit deeper under the skin and take longer to heal. Many people also notice that flare-ups occur in cycles, particularly during puberty, monthly changes, or times of stress.
Hormonal acne often appears as deeper breakouts along the jawline and chin, caused by shifts in hormone levels.
Hormonal Acne vs Regular Acne
Regular acne often includes blackheads, whiteheads and smaller pimples that may appear across the face or body. These breakouts are usually less severe and can often be managed with over-the-counter options.
Hormonal acne, on the other hand, forms deeper, inflamed lesions that are painful to touch. It commonly affects the jawline, chin and lower cheeks, with flare-ups linked to hormonal fluctuations or stress.
Hormonal acne frequently persists into adulthood, continuing into the 20s, 30s and beyond. Due to its depth and severity, it also carries a higher risk of scarring or pigmentation if not treated effectively.
Common Causes of Hormonal Acne
Several factors can contribute to hormonal acne:
- Hormonal fluctuations: Puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause can all trigger breakouts.
- Androgens: These hormones stimulate sebum production and make the skin more prone to congestion.
- Stress: Raised cortisol levels can increase inflammation and worsen flare-ups.
- Lifestyle factors: Poor sleep, high-sugar diets and inconsistent skincare may aggravate the condition.
Signs and Symptoms of Hormonal Acne
Hormonal acne can often be recognised by:
- Painful, cystic spots that develop beneath the skin
- Breakouts concentrated on the chin, jawline and lower cheeks
- Flare-ups that follow a cycle, such as during menstruation or stressful periods
- Longer healing times and a higher risk of scarring compared with regular acne
A consistent skincare routine is key to managing hormonal acne and reducing the risk of long-term scarring.
Hormonal Acne Skincare Routine
Managing hormonal acne usually requires a combination of professional care and consistent daily habits. While prescription options are sometimes used, building a structured skincare routine can make a noticeable difference in long-term management.
A full routine using the allmedic Acne Clear range might look like this:
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Step 1 – Cleanse (morning and evening): allmedic Acne Clear Cleanser
A gentle exfoliating cleanser with AHAs and BHAs that removes dead skin cells, clears blocked pores, and helps reduce congestion often linked to hormonal acne. -
Step 2 – Calm and balance (morning and evening): allmedic Acne Clear Soothing Spray
A refreshing spray that calms redness and irritation, making it especially useful when hormonal acne breakouts feel inflamed or uncomfortable. -
Step 3 – Exfoliate (two to three times per week): allmedic Acne Clear Scrub
A physical exfoliant with natural beads that smooths uneven texture and supports clearer pores, helping to manage the clogged skin often seen in hormonal acne. -
Step 4 – Night treatment (evening): allmedic Acne Clear Night Exfoliating Lotion
An overnight “mini peel” that resurfaces the skin, reduces oil build-up, and calms inflammation with niacinamide. This makes it especially effective for the deeper lesions associated with hormonal acne. -
Step 5 – Hydrate and support (morning and evening): allmedic Detoxifying Skin Lotion
A lightweight lotion that restores hydration and strengthens the barrier, counteracting the dryness or irritation that can accompany hormonal acne care.
This type of structured approach ensures that acne-prone skin is cleansed, soothed, exfoliated, treated and protected in a way that works together for clearer results.
Everyday Tips for Managing Hormonal Acne
Simple daily habits can help reduce the severity and frequency of flare-ups:
- Cleanse gently: Wash the face twice daily with a suitable cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubs: These can irritate inflamed skin and worsen breakouts.
- Prioritise sleep and stress control: Rest and stress management help regulate hormone balance.
- Maintain a balanced diet: Reducing refined sugars may support clearer skin.
- Stay consistent: Use a regular routine rather than frequently switching products.
When to Seek Professional Help
Persistent or painful breakouts should be assessed by a professional. If acne is causing scarring, ongoing discomfort, or emotional distress, tailored support can help.
Dermatology-led guidance combined with medical-grade skincare often provides the best results. Early treatment also reduces the risk of long-term pigmentation or scars.
Final Thoughts
Hormonal acne can be challenging because it is influenced by internal hormone shifts as well as external factors such as stress and lifestyle. Unlike other types of acne, it often requires a consistent, tailored approach to achieve long-term improvement.
Understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms and adopting effective daily habits all play a role in managing this condition. With the right combination of professional guidance and supportive skincare, it is possible to reduce flare-ups and protect the skin against long-term effects such as scarring.
FAQs
How do I know if my acne is hormonal?
Hormonal acne often appears as deep, painful spots along the jawline, chin and lower face. These breakouts usually follow a cycle, such as occurring at the same time each month or during stressful periods.
What triggers hormonal acne flare-ups?
Hormonal changes during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause can trigger this type of acne. Stress and lifestyle factors, including poor sleep or a high-sugar diet, may also contribute to worsening symptoms.
Can diet affect hormonal acne?
Diet does not directly cause hormonal acne, but certain foods may make it worse. Diets high in refined sugar or processed items can increase inflammation, which may lead to more frequent breakouts.
Is hormonal acne linked to stress?
Yes, stress can raise levels of cortisol, a hormone that stimulates oil production and inflammation in the skin. This can aggravate existing acne and make symptoms harder to manage.
Does hormonal acne go away naturally?
For some, hormonal acne lessens with age as hormone levels stabilise. However, many continue to experience acne episodes into adulthood, and consistent care is often needed for control.
Can hormonal acne leave scars?
Hormonal acne has a higher chance of leaving marks or scars because the spots are deeper and more inflamed. Early treatment and a structured skincare routine reduce the risk of lasting pigmentation or scarring.
