Acne and Hormones

Hormonal acne is one of the most common causes of acne, especially in women of reproductive age. It is closely related to fluctuations in hormone levels in the body.

When does hormonal acne occur?

In many women, acne tends to flare up about 7–10 days before menstruation.

This is due to a drop in estrogen and progesterone, which allows the effects of androgens (such as testosterone) to become more dominant.

As a result:

• Sebaceous glands produce more oil
• Pores become more easily clogged
• Inflammatory acne or comedones develop

Characteristics of hormonal acne

• Commonly appears on the chin, jawline, or lower face
• Often presents as deep, painful inflammatory pimples
• Tends to recur in the same areas
• Flares before menstruation and gradually improves after the cycle ends

Severe or abnormal hormonal acne

In some cases, acne may be related to endocrine disorders or elevated androgen levels (hyperandrogenism).

It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• Excessively oily skin (seborrhoea)
• Excess body or facial hair growth (hirsutism)
• Male-pattern hair thinning (androgenic alopecia)
• Deepening of the voice
• Irregular menstrual cycles

Treatment of hormonal acne

Treatment depends on severity and underlying causes, such as:

• Topical acne medications to reduce inflammation and clogged pores
• Hormonal treatments in selected cases (under medical supervision)
• Management of underlying hormonal disorders, if present

Hormonal acne can often be well controlled, but it may recur if treatment is discontinued.

Why a detailed evaluation is important

Effective treatment of hormonal acne is not based only on what is visible on the skin.

A proper diagnosis requires medical history and physical examination to determine whether it is normal hormonal fluctuation or related to an underlying disorder.

Summary

Hormonal acne is commonly linked to hormonal changes, especially before menstruation, and often appears along the jawline and chin.

If symptoms are severe or accompanied by other signs, a dermatologist should be consulted for proper evaluation and treatment planning.