September 2, 2019
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4 min read
How To Treat Hormonal Acne Naturally
Do you struggle with adult acne or hormonal breakouts? You're not alone! Acne isn’t just a teenage problem—about 50% of women aged 20-29 and 25% of women aged 40-49 experience acne.
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns and can persist well into adulthood. Many factors contribute to adult acne, including hormones, stress, diet, and the use of harsh or pore-clogging skincare products. Often, it's a mix of these factors.
Key Takeaways
- Hormonal acne often appears along the jawline and is influenced by hormonal fluctuations.
- Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can worsen breakouts. Prioritise sleep and stress management.
- A gentle, non-comedogenic skincare routine is essential for preventing clogged pores and irritation.
- Protect your skin from the sun with a mineral-based sunscreen.
Hormones
Hormonal acne is linked to fluctuations in hormone levels. It typically appears on the lower part of the face—along the jawline and lower cheeks—and often takes the form of small pimples or deeper cysts that don’t come to a head. Hormonal acne may be triggered by imbalanced hormones, menstruation, or birth control changes.
Stress and acne
Stress and hormones are closely connected. Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can disrupt the endocrine system and worsen acne. Common stressors include:
- Lack of sleep
- Over-exercising
- Under-eating
- Constant anxiety
- Emotional stress
To help balance hormones and reduce breakouts, try:
- Reducing chronic stress where possible
- Practicing mindfulness or meditation.
- Prioritising at least 7 hours of sleep per night (ideally before 11 PM)
Skincare for hormonal Acne
Choosing the right skincare products is essential. Here’s how to care for acne-prone skin:
Gentle cleansing
Use a mild cleanser, such as a cleansing balm or oil, to remove makeup without stripping the skin. If needed, follow with a gentle gel or foam cleanser free from sulphates.
Hydration
Always moisturise! Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic products that won’t clog pores. Amaranthine’s hydrating face cream is ideal for strengthening the skin barrier and reducing inflammation.
Face oils
A balancing face oil can help regulate sebum production and soothe acne-prone skin.
Sun protection
UV exposure can worsen acne. Choose a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as chemical sunscreens may disrupt hormones and irritate the skin.
Make-up choices
Avoid pore-clogging foundations with silicones. These form a barrier on the skin and can contribute to breakouts.
Diet and acne
What you eat impacts your skin. A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates can lead to insulin spikes, which disrupt hormone balance and trigger acne. Try to:
- Eat more zinc-rich foods (e.g., cashews, avocados, blackberries, raspberries) to reduce inflammation.
- Swap sugary treats for dark chocolate, which contains zinc and antioxidants that protect the skin.
- Follow a low-glycemic diet with whole grains, vegetables, and legumes.
- Support gut health by consuming probiotic-rich foods like kimchi and kombucha.
By following these skincare, diet, and lifestyle principles, you can help manage hormonal acne and improve your skin’s health!
Our products mentioned in this article
Sarah Rueger
About the author
Sarah is the founder of certified palm oil free natural skincare brand Amaranthine. She is a qualified organic skincare formulator and has diplomas in Beauty Therapy and Clinical Aromatherapy.
