The Link Between PCOS and Acne: Here’s What to Know
For many women, acne is one of those annoying issues that can feel frustratingly unpredictable. Just when you think you’ve found a routine that works, another breakout appears out of nowhere. If your acne is persistent, cyclical, or resistant to conventional treatments, there may be an underlying reason you haven’t yet considered: PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).
As a naturopathic doctor specializing in acne, I often work with women who unknowingly struggle with PCOS that ends up impacting their skin. In this blog post, we’ll explore why PCOS can lead to stubborn breakouts, how to identify PCOS-related acne, and natural strategies to address it from the inside out.
Disclaimer: the information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat. Make sure you contact your doctor if you think you have a medical problem.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal disorder affecting roughly one in ten women of reproductive age. Its symptoms vary widely but typically include irregular periods, weight gain, excess hair growth, and persistent acne.
PCOS & Hormonal Imbalances
PCOS often results in higher levels of androgens like testosterone. These hormones are often thought of as “male hormones,” but both men and women have them. When these hormones are elevated, they can increase sebum (oil) production in the skin, which can clog pores and lead to acne. For women with PCOS, this means that acne is often a symptom of hormonal imbalances happening beneath the surface.
Many women I work with who have PCOS tell me they feel trapped in a cycle of breakouts despite their best efforts with skincare. Recognizing that PCOS could be the reason for these flare-ups often brings immense relief and give us a direction to go in when it comes to tackling the acne flare-ups.
Why PCOS Can Trigger Persistent Acne
If you’ve noticed a correlation between certain times in your cycle and your breakouts, that’s no coincidence. PCOS creates a hormonal landscape that can lead to persistent, frustrating acne. Let’s dive into how this occurs.
Androgens and Sebum Production
Androgens, like testosterone, play a central role in the body’s oil production. When these hormones are higher than usual, they can lead to increased sebum production. And while oil is necessary for healthy skin, too much of it can clog pores, inviting acne-causing bacteria to multiply. And the areas like the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks are areas that are more sensitive to hormonal changes and is why we often see that pattern in PCOS.
Insulin Resistance and Inflammation
Another common aspect of PCOS is insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels, but in women with PCOS, the body often doesn’t respond to insulin as effectively. As a result, the pancreas releases more insulin to compensate, which can trigger more androgen production, ultimately worsening acne. Insulin resistance also increases inflammation, leading to deeper, more painful breakouts. Blood sugar balance is a big driver when it comes to hormonal acne.
Cycle of Hormonal Fluctuations
Unlike the steady rise and fall of hormones in a typical cycle, women with PCOS often experience irregular cycles and fluctuating hormones, which can lead to ongoing breakouts. This unpredictable pattern makes PCOS-related acne persistent and difficult to manage with typical skincare alone. Understanding this pattern can help explain why your skin may seem clear one week and then suddenly erupt the next.
Signs Your Acne Might Be Related to PCOS
If you’re wondering whether PCOS could be behind your acne, here are some signs to look out for:
Acne Pattern and Location
PCOS-related acne often appears around the jawline, chin, and neck. These breakouts may also be more painful and inflamed than other types, and often times cystic acne.
Additional PCOS Symptoms
Persistent acne accompanied by other PCOS symptoms, such as irregular periods, excessive hair growth in areas you don’t want hair growth (like the chin, chest, stomach), hair thinning on the scalp, or weight gain, could be a strong indicator of PCOS.
Acne Resistant to Topical Treatments
PCOS-related acne often doesn’t respond well to conventional topical treatments and skin care. This is because the root cause is hormonal, rather than a surface-level skin issue.
It’s important to visit your doctor if you suspect you have PCOS to get the proper workup done that includes proper labs and imaging.
Hormonal Bloodwork: Testing for testosterone, insulin, and other hormones can provide a clearer picture of your hormonal balance and help you identify PCOS. Knowing your baseline hormone levels can also empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
Ultrasound: An ultrasound to diagnose cysts on the ovaries can help confirm a diagnosis and guide your management plan.
Naturopathic Approaches to PCOS-Related Acne
The good news? Managing PCOS-related acne naturally is possible by supporting hormonal balance, detoxifying the liver, and reducing inflammation. Here are some key approaches I often recommend.
Supporting Hormone Balance
Since hormonal imbalance is at the root of PCOS, supporting balance can make a significant impact on your skin.
Herbal Support: Herbs like spearmint, chasteberry, and saw palmetto can be helpful for women with PCOS-related acne. Spearmint is known for reducing androgens, while chasteberry helps balance menstrual cycles, and saw palmetto can reduce testosterone levels. I often recommend spearmint tea to clients as it’s simple to incorporate and has been shown to be effective in reducing hormonal acne.
Dietary Adjustments: Insulin resistance is a major driver of PCOS, so reducing sugar and refined carbohydrates can be beneficial. I’ve seen clients experience fewer breakouts simply by cutting back on sugary snacks and refined grains, which helps regulate blood sugar and, in turn, hormone levels. Incorporating more protein and healthy fats into the diet will also support better insulin regulation.
Supporting Detoxification
Since the liver is responsible for processing and removing excess hormones, supporting liver health is essential.
Liver-Supportive Herbs: Dandelion root, milk thistle, and burdock root are excellent choices for liver detox. Dandelion root supports liver function by helping flush out excess hormones, while milk thistle promotes healthy liver cells. Herbs are a great way to enhance detoxification.
Skin Detox Support: Burdock root and nettle can support skin health through enhanced detoxification. These herbs help reduce skin inflammation and promote clear, calm skin. Burdock root is one of the herbs included in my herbal blend Skin TeaTox, a convenient way to support your skin’s detoxification pathways naturally.
Reducing Inflammation
Acne is an inflammatory disease and a huge driver to acne. Managing inflammation is crucial to reducing the severity and frequency of breakouts.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Adding omega-3-rich foods like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts can help manage inflammation. Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and green tea, are also beneficial.
Herbal Anti-Inflammatories: Herbs like turmeric and green tea are powerful anti-inflammatories that can help calm inflamed skin. I recommend drinking green tea or golden milk regularly as a simple, enjoyable way to reduce inflammation.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Stress and poor sleep can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and acne. Here’s how to make manageable changes:
Stress Management: Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can further disrupt hormone balance. Incorporating stress-relieving activities like yoga, deep breathing, or short walks can make a huge difference. I often recommend starting small with these activities because 20 minutes of meditation can seem a bit intimidating at first, starting with a 5 minute meditation a few times per week is a great start!
Sleep for Hormone Regulation: Quality sleep is essential for regulating hormone levels and reducing inflammation. Aim for at least seven hours of uninterrupted sleep each night, and try to create a calming evening routine that helps you unwind.
Acne and PCOS are often more closely linked than we realize, as both are deeply influenced by hormone imbalances and inflammation. By addressing the root causes through balanced blood sugar, reduced stress, and natural support for the liver and skin, many women can see substantial improvements in their skin.
If you’re looking for a simple way to support your skin from within, consider Skin TeaTox, an herbal blend formulated with herbs like dandelion root, burdock root, and green tea. These herbs work synergistically to promote detoxification, support hormone balance, and reduce inflammation, helping you achieve clearer, healthier skin naturally.
Taking charge of your skin health with natural solutions can feel empowering and create long-term benefits for both your skin and overall well-being.
Talk soon,
xx Dr. Alyssa
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