How Hormonal Changes Trigger Acne Breakouts
Why does your skin flare up at the worst times? The answer is likely your hormones. Hormonal fluctuations are a key factor in triggering acne, especially in women. Life stages like puberty and menopause, as well as monthly hormonal changes during your period, can have a significant impact on your skin. These changes often lead to increased oil production, clogged pores, and breakouts.
The role of hormones in skin health
Hormones play a fundamental role in skin health, directly influencing sebum production, inflammation, and overall skin barrier function. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is central to the body’s stress response and has a significant impact on the skin. When activated, particularly during a period of chronic stress, the HPA axis releases cortisol, a stress hormone that not only increases sebaceous gland activity, but also compromises the skin barrier by reducing its ability to retain moisture and defend against environmental stressors. Over time, elevated cortisol levels are associated with increased inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can lead to acne breakouts.
Sex hormones, particularly androgens such as testosterone, play a key role in regulating the functioning of the sebaceous glands. High levels of androgens stimulate excess sebum production, which clogs pores and promotes the growth of Cutibacterium acnes, leading to the development of acne. Estrogen, on the other hand, promotes skin hydration and elasticity, contributing to overall skin health. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can disrupt this balance, which can trigger acne.
Hormonal acne and menstrual cycles
The term “hormonal acne” is often used to describe breakouts that occur in response to hormonal fluctuations, especially in adult women. However, all forms of acne have a hormonal component, as hormones regulate sebum production, which directly impacts acne formation. These fluctuations can lead to breakouts, especially during the menstrual cycle, and are most commonly seen on the lower half of the face, such as the jawline, chin, and cheeks.
During the menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate. In the first half of the cycle, estrogen levels are higher, which promotes healthier skin and reduces oil production. However, in the second half of the cycle, progesterone increases and estrogen decreases. This hormonal change can lead to increased oil production and skin sensitivity, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Many women experience acne breakouts right before or during their period due to this hormonal imbalance.
The menstrual cycle is marked by predictable hormonal changes that influence the skin.
Each cycle typically lasts 28 days and can be divided into four phases:
- Menstrual phase (days 1-5): Low hormone levels make skin look dull and dry.
- Follicular phase (days 6-14): Estrogen levels increase, improving skin texture and hydration.
- Ovulation (Day 14): A spike in estrogen helps keep skin glowing, but when progesterone starts to rise, sebum production can increase.
- Luteal phase (days 15-28): Progesterone dominates, often resulting in oilier skin and acne breakouts.
The Role of Toxins in Hormonal Imbalances and Acne
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are not only harmful to our skin, they can also affect our overall health, leading to reproductive problems, metabolic disorders, and even some cancers. Studies have shown that these toxins can be passed down through four generations, through “transgenerational epigenetic inheritance,” affecting the health of descendants who were never directly exposed to these toxins.
What are endocrine disruptors? They are a class of toxins that interfere with the body’s hormonal system. These chemicals can mimic or block hormones, disrupting the delicate balance of our endocrine system. This hormonal imbalance can lead to overproduction of oil, clogged pores, and inflammation, all of which contribute to acne.
Bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and parabens are common examples of EDCs. BPA, found in plastics, can mimic estrogen and disrupt normal hormonal functions, while phthalates, often found in cosmetics, can interfere with testosterone production.
According to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), the process of identifying and regulating EDCs can take a decade or more. Additionally, once a chemical is identified as an EDC, regulatory processes allow products containing these substances to remain on the market for years before being phased out. For example, products containing recognized EDCs can continue to be sold for seven years.
That’s why Skin Diligent takes the initiative and tests the final formulas of its skincare products against estrogen-type endocrine disruption. To learn more, click here .
How to Effectively Manage Hormonal Acne: Proven Tips and Strategies
Although hormonal acne can be difficult to manage, there are several steps you can take to reduce its impact. We recommend a multi-functional In & Out approach.
Opt for the Acne Skin Diligent Kit – clinically proven and tested to be endocrine disrupting.
Skin & Stress dietary supplement targets stress from the inside.
Triple Action Cleanser provides probiotics and gentle exfoliation to cleanse your skin without damaging the outer barrier.
Regulation Serum targets congested pores, excess oil, blackheads and blemishes with an advanced formula that's gentle on skin yet effective on breakouts.
Buy our Acne Kit here .
Manage your stress level
Since stress directly affects your hormones through the HPA axis, it’s essential to incorporate stress-relieving activities into your day. Practices like yoga and meditation can help regulate cortisol levels and improve skin health.
Regulate your hormones
When it comes to monthly hormonal fluctuations, diet seems to play the most important role.
Diet plays a major role in regulating hormones. Diets high in sugar and processed foods can spike insulin levels, which can trigger excess oil production and inflammation. Aim for a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, and sardines.
For perimenopausal women experiencing acne breakouts, we recommend our Skin & Biotics supplement , a combination of probiotics, prebiotics, minerals and vitamins. The role of these probiotics is to help regulate hormones while improving gut health.
Regulate your sleep rhythm:
Poor sleep can disrupt hormone production and impair your skin's ability to repair itself. Aim to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to help your body balance its hormones and better eliminate the effects of stress.
By combining these strategies, you prepare your body to better handle hormonal fluctuations. You enable your body to manage hormonal changes more effectively, which promotes clearer, healthier skin.