Hormonal Acne

What causes hormonal acne?

It’s uncertain what causes acne during perimenopause and menopause but hormones, in particular androgens, are thought to be a trigger. 

During this time oestrogen and progesterone levels fall sharply with testosterone (androgens) decreasing more gradually.  It’s not that there are excess androgens, but rather the balance between oestrogen and testosterone changes and this can stimulate the onset of acne.

Our sebaceous (oil) glands are under the control of androgens, vitamin D, neuropeptides and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1).  The balance between androgens, insulin and IGF-1 may contribute to menopausal acne. Abdominal obesity is linked to acne as it involves insulin resistance which disrupts hormone balance by increasing androgens and decreasing sex hormone -binding globulin.

 

Hormone fluctuations can increase:

  • skin inflammation

  • sebum production

  • bacteria responsible for acne -Propionibacterium acnes 

  • skin cells clogging the hair follicle

 

Other known triggers for acne include stress, obesity, cosmetics, drugs and sleep deprivation. 

One in five women in their 40’s and 50’s experience acne.

Acne vulgaris is a common, chronic inflammatory skin condition experienced mainly during teenage years and into early adulthood. However, studies show that many women experience adult acne during perimenopause and menopause.

A woman showing the side of her face and jawline that is covered in red, inflamed pimples and blackheads.

Features of menopausal acne:

  • Cysts form below the skin and often don’t come to a head.  They can feel tender and leave scars

  • The acne generally appears on the cheeks and the lower part of the face

  • The skin can be oily or dry

  • Blackheads, whiteheads and pimples are present

Treatment options:

The medical approach is to use topical retinoids, antibiotics and hormonal therapies.

The naturopathic approach is to treat from the inside out by:

  • lymphatic cleansing which is traditionally used to improve elimination of waste for a clearer complexion

  • reducing inflammatory foods in the diet

  • improving the gut microbiome as this has a direct impact on the health of our skin

  • supporting hormone balance with herbal medicine and key nutrients

Dried, orange calendula flowers displayed in a wooden bowl and in a glass jar
An illustration of a human torso with the lymphatic system shown as green vessels.
Healthy fruits and vegetables in greens, oranges, red, yellow that help reduce inflammation including; carrots, lentils, asparagus, oranges, pumpkin, brussels sprouts, leafy greens.
Two glasses on a white counter filled with green juice.

Start your journey toward clear, healthy skin and book an appointment with Colleen today.