Acne is a common symptom of PCOS. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. Acne is a common symptom, and this skin condition is often characterized by inflamed, pimple-like bumps on the body.
Understanding Acne and PCOS:
Excessive levels of androgens (male hormones present in women), particularly testosterone, can stimulate the oil glands in the skin, resulting in the development of pimples, bumpy skin, and cysts.
Types of PCOS- PCOS-related acne:
The type of Acne typically observed in PCOS include-
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Cystic Acne: A severe form of Acne which is large, painful, and deeper in size filled with pus, and is located on the face, neck, chest, and back.
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Hormonal Acne: Typically occurs during the menstrual cycle, though in PCOS, it can be more persistent due to chronic hormonal imbalances. It is found near the jawline, lower face, and chin area.
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Jawline and Lower Face Acne: A common type of Symptom in PCOS, Acne, particularly in the Jawline area, is linked to Hormonal fluctuations that lead to pimples and breakouts.
These Acne types are sometimes misread and it is advisable to visit your nearest healthcare provider. Try our Symptoms Quiz to check your likelyhood of having PCOS.
Remedies:
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Supplements like inositol, chromium, berberine, and zinc can help regulate hormones.
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Following an anti-inflammatory diet such as the Mediterranean or low-glycemic approach.
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Incorporating foods rich in inositol, zinc, omega-3s, and berberine may also support hormone balance.
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Incorporating Vitamins D and B6 also supports skin health and hormone balance.
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Adopting natural remedies like Apple Cider Vinegar, Aloe Vera, and Tea Tree Oil may help with acne and skin problems.
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Practicing Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine may help to clear up stubborn PCOS acne.
The Relationship Between Acne and PCOS
PCOS, a hormonal condition affecting about 13% of women of reproductive age, often leads to acne due to elevated androgen levels.[1] These hormones overstimulate oil glands, clog pores, and cause breakouts, especially on the jawline, cheeks, and chin. Insulin resistance can worsen the issue. If you suspect PCOS-related acne, consult a doctor or take the PCOS Symptoms Quiz to learn more.
Understanding PCOS Acne And How To Identify It
How do excess Androgens (Male hormones) Contribute to Acne?
If you have PCOS, your ovaries produce increased levels of androgen hormones, specifically testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Androgens are hormones that trigger male physical characteristics. All women have them naturally, but those with PCOS have higher levels.
Women experiencing acne related to PCOS will not have the occasional pimple most people see. PCOS is responsible for hormonal acne breakouts that are more severe. Some common symptoms of a hormonal acne outbreak include:
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Deeper cystic acne under the skin. Cystic acne creates pus-filled lumps under the skin that can become red and inflamed. The trapping of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria is responsible for these skin cysts.
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Acne occurs lower on the face, near your chin, jawline, and lower part of the cheeks.
Regular acne, not associated with PCOS, involves smaller surface bumps rather than deep, tender knots under the skin.
Types of PCOS Acne
The type of Acne typically observed in PCOS include-
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Cystic Acne: A severe form that is large, painful, and deep. It is located on the face, neck, chest, and back.
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Hormonal Acne: Typically occurs during the menstrual cycle, though in PCOS, it can be more persistent due to chronic hormonal imbalances. It is found near the jawline, lower face, and chin area.
Recognizing PCOS Acne VS. Non-PCOS Acne
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PCOS Acne |
NON-PCOS Acne |
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PCOS acne is typically more persistent |
Non-PCOS Acne is less persistent. |
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Typically found on the cheeks, jawline area, and chin. |
It can be found anywhere on the face. |
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The acne is cystic pimples that worsen with hormonal changes. |
Acne comes and goes around the menstrual cycle and is comparatively soft. |
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Combines with other symptoms like irregular periods, mood swings, weight gain, etc. |
Mostly around the menstrual cycle or change in diet. |
Body Acne with PCOS
Body acne is a common symptom of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). It is caused by hormonal imbalances that increase androgen levels, leading to excess oil production and clogged pores. Women with PCOS often experience acne on the chest, back, and shoulders. Managing body acne involves a combination of lifestyle changes, skincare routines, and, in some cases, medical treatments like hormonal therapies to address the root cause.
How is PCOS Acne caused?
There are various causes of PCOS-Acne. Let’s look at each one of them:
Hormonal Changes
Excess Androgens and Their Effect on Sebum Production
High levels of androgens, or male hormones, are common in PCOS and can cause acne by making the skin’s oil glands produce too much oil. This extra oil can block pores, allowing bacteria to grow. This leads to redness, swelling, and pimples.
The Role of Insulin Resistance in Acne Severity
Insulin resistance, a common feature of PCOS, causes the body to produce more insulin. Elevated insulin levels stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens, worsening acne by increasing oil production and promoting inflammation.
Estrogen, Progesterone, and Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormonal changes, like imbalances in estrogen and progesterone, can upset the skin's balance. This often leads to acne breakouts, especially during certain times in the menstrual cycle or hormonal shifts.
Dietary and Lifestyle Influences
Foods to Avoid
Dairy, sugary, processed foods, and gluten may aggravate PCOS-related acne. Dairy can impact hormones, while sugary and processed foods spike blood sugar, worsening insulin resistance and breakouts.
Stress and Sleep
Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, disrupting hormones and increasing acne. Poor sleep worsens stress and hormonal imbalances, triggering more breakouts.
Exercise and Weight Management
Regular physical activity and a healthy weight regulate insulin sensitivity, lowering androgen levels and inflammation, which can help clear PCOS-related acne.
Genetic and Environmental Factors
Family History and Genetics
A family history of PCOS or hormonal acne increases the risk of developing PCOS-related acne, as genetics influence skin sensitivity to hormones.
Environmental Toxins
Exposure to pollutants and endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics and cosmetics can disrupt hormones, worsening PCOS symptoms like acne.
PCOS Medical and Pharmaceutical Treatment Options
Hormonal Therapies
Birth Control Pills for regulating Hormones and Acne
Birth control pills are prescribed for women with PCOS with hormonal imbalances. These pills contain synthetic forms of estrogen and progestin, which help lower androgen levels and reduce oil production in the skin. However, not all birth control pills are suitable for this treatment and it is important to consult a doctor before finding the right one.
Spironolactone for Androgen-Blocking Benefits
Spironolactone is a medication that blocks the effects of androgens, helping to reduce excess oil production and hormonal acne. It is used alongside other treatments, such as birth control or topical medications, to enhance results.
Metformin’s role in addressing Insulin Resistance and Acne.
Metformin is commonly prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS. By reducing insulin resistance, metformin helps lower androgen levels, which can indirectly reduce acne. While metformin is not a direct acne treatment, it can improve overall hormonal balance and reduce the severity of PCOS-related acne.
Prescription Medication for Acne
Topical Treatments
Retinoids like tretinoin or adapalene unclog pores and reduce inflammation, ideal for mild to moderate acne. Topical antibiotics, such as clindamycin, reduce bacterial growth and inflammation and are often used alongside other treatments to prevent resistance.
Oral Medications
Oral antibiotics are prescribed for moderate to severe acne, reducing bacteria and inflammation. Isotretinoin is used for severe acne, shrinking oil glands, and reducing oil production. However, due to potential side effects, it requires close monitoring.
Combining Hormonal Therapy with Topical Treatments
A combined approach often yields the best results for PCOS-related acne. Hormonal therapies like birth control pills or spironolactone can address the root cause of acne. At the same time, topical treatments such as retinoids or antibiotics target the skin directly to reduce breakouts and inflammation.
Natural and Holistic Approaches to PCOS Acne
Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments
An anti-inflammatory diet, rich in whole foods, healthy fats, vegetables, and low-glycemic options, can reduce systemic inflammation and improve PCOS acne. Reducing dairy and gluten may also help by lowering hormone-triggered oil production and inflammation. Beneficial foods like zinc, omega-3s, and inositol promote skin health, and supplements can be integrated to help regulate hormone levels and support clearer skin. Stress reduction, consistent sleep, and exercise further balance hormones, improving overall skin clarity.
Skincare for PCOS Acne
Choosing the Right Products
Non-comedogenic cleansers, moisturizers, and toners help cleanse the skin gently, reduce inflammation, and maintain hydration without clogging pores. Products designed for oily or acne-prone skin target excess oil, control shine, and prevent breakouts by addressing clogged pores and acne-causing bacteria.
Ingredients to Look For
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Salicylic Acid: A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates pores to exfoliate and remove excess oil and dead skin cells, reducing breakouts.
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Benzoyl Peroxide: An antibacterial agent that kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.[2]
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Retinol: A vitamin A derivative that promotes cell turnover, unclogs pores, and reduces the appearance of acne scars.[3]
Routine Skincare
Morning routines focus on cleansing, lightweight products, and sunscreen for UV protection, while evening routines emphasize makeup removal, deep cleansing, and targeted treatments like retinoids. Adjust routines with your menstrual cycle, using acne-fighting ingredients during breakout phases and hydrating products during calmer ones. Consistency and regular dermatologist follow-ups are essential for long-term PCOS acne management.
Looking Ahead: Managing PCOS Acne for the Long Term
Managing PCOS-related acne requires a long-term, adaptive approach. Since PCOS is a chronic condition, understanding its nature and learning about new advancements is important for empowering an individual’s skin and overall health.
Accepting the Chronic Nature of PCOS
PCOS is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing care and management. Regular check-ups and understanding symptoms are crucial to prevent complications. Managing PCOS involves building a sustainable lifestyle with exercise, stress management, and healthy eating. Combining treatments is often effective; consulting a doctor is essential for personalized care.
Adapting as Hormone Levels Change with Age
Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause can significantly influence PCOS symptoms. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during these phases is essential, especially during pregnancy and postpartum when hormonal changes are heightened. Adapting treatment strategies, including skincare, medications, and lifestyle adjustments, ensures effective management tailored to individual needs.
Future Research and Innovations
Emerging research on PCOS and acne is paving the way for new treatments, including targeted therapies to address hormonal imbalances and inflammation. Clinical trials are exploring innovative medications, topical solutions, and non-invasive procedures, offering hope for more effective and personalized solutions in the future.
Advances in genetic testing and personalized medicine are transforming PCOS management by enabling tailored treatment plans based on individual genetic profiles and hormonal markers. These precise solutions reduce trial and error, empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively. Consistency, adaptability, and staying informed about innovations pave the way for better skin health and well-being.