The Role of Hormones in Skin Health: Understanding Adult Acne

Acne is often associated with adolescence, but for many adults, breakouts persist well beyond their teenage years. Adult acne, particularly in women, is frequently driven by hormonal fluctuations. Understanding the role of hormones and skin health can help those affected find effective treatment solutions. At SkinDoc, we specialise in diagnosing and managing adult skin concerns, including hormonal acne, for patients in Liverpool, Sydney, and beyond.

What is Hormonal Acne?

Hormonal acne is a type of acne triggered by fluctuations in hormone levels. Unlike teenage acne, which is primarily due to excess oil production and clogged pores, adult acne often stems from hormonal imbalances. This condition is common among young women, particularly those experiencing changes related to menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, or stress. While men can also suffer from hormonal acne, women are more susceptible due to the natural hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives.

How Hormones Impact Skin Health

Several key hormones influence the skin’s oil production and inflammation levels, contributing to acne formation:

• Androgens: Androgens (also known as male hormones) stimulate sebaceous (oil) glands, leading to increased oil production. Elevated androgen levels can cause clogged pores and acne breakouts, particularly along the jawline and chin in adults.
• Oestrogen: This hormone helps regulate sebum production and keeps inflammation in check. Drops in oestrogen levels—such as those occurring before menstruation or during menopause—can lead to an imbalance, triggering breakouts.
• Cortisol (the Stress Hormone): Chronic stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which can increase oil production and inflammation, exacerbating acne. Stress-induced hormonal shifts can make existing acne worse or trigger new breakouts.

Differences Between Adult Acne and Teen Acne

While teenage acne primarily appears on the forehead, nose, and cheeks due to puberty-related oil production, adult acne is more commonly found on the lower face, jawline, and neck. Other key differences include:

• Triggers: Teen acne is mainly caused by puberty and genetics, while adult acne is often influenced by hormonal imbalances, stress, and lifestyle factors. Additionally, adult acne may be aggravated by environmental factors such as pollution and prolonged use of cosmetics or skincare products that are not suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Skin Type: Adult skin tends to be drier and more sensitive than adolescent skin, making harsh acne treatments less suitable. Teenagers typically have oilier skin due to overactive sebaceous glands, making them more prone to widespread breakouts, whereas adults may experience smaller, more stubborn breakouts that take longer to heal.
• Breakout Patterns: Teen acne is usually widespread, affecting large areas of the face, back, and chest. In contrast, adult acne is often more localised, occurring in clusters around the lower face, jawline, and chin.
• Healing Time: Adult acne lesions often take longer to heal and are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) and scarring. Due to slower skin cell turnover in adults, breakouts may linger longer and leave noticeable marks.

Management and Treatment Options

Effectively managing hormonal acne requires a combination of skincare, medical acne treatments, and lifestyle adjustments. A well-rounded approach can help control breakouts and improve skin health.

Topical treatments play a key role in managing hormonal acne. Retinoids help increase cell turnover and prevent clogged pores, while benzoyl peroxide works to reduce bacteria and inflammation. Salicylic acid is another beneficial ingredient, as it helps exfoliate the skin and unclog pores, preventing breakouts.

Prescription medications may be necessary for more severe cases. Hormonal therapy, including oral contraceptives and anti-androgen medications like spironolactone, can help regulate hormone-induced breakouts. In some cases, short-term use of oral antibiotics can help control severe adult acne. For those with persistent, treatment-resistant acne, isotretinoin is a potent option that can significantly reduce breakouts.

Lifestyle adjustments can also contribute to clearer skin. Stress management techniques such as meditation, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can help lower cortisol levels, reducing the likelihood of hormonal flare-ups. Dietary changes, such as reducing dairy, refined sugars, and high-glycaemic foods, may improve skin health. Additionally, following a proper skincare routine with non-comedogenic products and a gentle cleanser can support acne-prone skin without causing irritation.

For personalised acne treatment, consulting a dermatologist is crucial. At SkinDoc in Sydney, our expert dermatological team can tailor a skincare and acne treatment plan suited to your specific hormonal needs, ensuring the best possible results.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Tips

Although hormonal fluctuations cannot always be controlled, certain lifestyle habits can help minimise breakouts and maintain healthier skin. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fibre can support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation. Staying hydrated is essential for flushing out toxins and keeping the skin supple. Managing stress through activities like meditation, exercise, and deep breathing can help regulate cortisol levels and prevent stress-related breakouts.

Additionally, using gentle, hormone-friendly skincare products—such as non-comedogenic cleansers, moisturisers, and sunscreens—can prevent irritation and clogged pores. By incorporating these practises into daily life, people can support their skin’s health and reduce the likelihood of hormonal acne flare-ups.

Adult acne can be frustrating, but understanding its hormonal roots can help guide effective treatment choices. Whether it’s adjusting your skincare routine, making lifestyle changes, or seeking medical intervention, there are solutions to manage hormonal acne effectively. If you’re struggling with persistent breakouts, consulting a dermatologist in Liverpool, Sydney, is the best step towards clear, healthy skin.

At SkinDoc, we provide expert dermatological care for adult acne and other concerns in Liverpool, Sydney, and beyond. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward clearer, healthier skin.