Acne Treatment | Combat Oily Skin

What Is Hormonal Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when pores become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells and bacteria, leading to inflammation and breakouts. Acne can appear in many forms, including blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed pimples and deeper cystic lesions.

Hormonal acne is a specific type of acne triggered by fluctuations in hormones that stimulate the sebaceous (oil) glands. It most commonly appears along the lower face, jawline and chin and is frequently associated with oily or congested skin.

Why It Happens?

Acne develops when excess oil production, abnormal skin cell turnover and inflammation combine to block the pores and create an environment where acne-causing bacteria can thrive.

Hormonal acne occurs when fluctuations in hormones—particularly androgens—stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This excess oil can mix with dead skin cells, clogging the pores and triggering breakouts.

Common contributing factors include:

Hormonal fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle
Elevated androgen levels
Stress and increased cortisol
Genetics
Excess oil production (oily skin type)
Poor skin barrier function
Diet and lifestyle factors
Inappropriate or overly harsh skincare products

These factors can disrupt the balance of the skin, leading to congestion, inflammation and persistent breakouts.

What We See In Clinic

Clients experiencing acne or hormonal acne often present with:

Breakouts concentrated around the chin, jawline and lower cheeks
Deep or cystic pimples that can be tender or inflamed
Oily or congested skin
Enlarged pores and blackheads
Breakouts that flare around the menstrual cycle
Post-inflammatory pigmentation or acne scarring

Hormonal acne can be particularly frustrating as it tends to be cyclical and persistent, often continuing into adulthood or returning despite over-the-counter treatments.