Why do I keep getting Hormonal acne?

An insight into acne & the Menstrual cycle

You’re doing all the right things—cleansing, moisturising, drinking your water (most of the time), and maybe even splurging on expensive skincare serums. But like clockwork, a few days before your period, your skin flares up—like it’s trying to send a dramatic message.

If this monthly cycle of clear skin followed by breakouts feels a little too familiar, you’re not imagining it, hormonal acne is very real, and it’s closely linked to the natural ups and downs of your menstrual cycle.

Why Is Hormonal Acne So Persistent?

Hormonal acne tends to appear in the lower face: chin, jaw, sometimes neck. These areas have more oil glands that are sensitive to androgens like testosterone. When hormone levels shift—especially before menstruation—these glands ramp up oil production, leading to clogged pores and inflammation.

But the skin isn’t just reacting to monthly hormone fluctuations—it’s responding to deeper imbalances in the body.

What May Be Fuelling Your Hormonal Acne?

1. Hormonal Imbalance

Ever feel like your skin has a personal vendetta against you—especially when your period’s about to crash the party? That’s your hormones talking. Things like PCOS, estrogen dominance, or low progesterone throw your body’s balance out of whack, triggering oil spikes and breakouts that show up like clockwork.

2. Chronic Stress

Ever notice how your skin loves to breakout when you’re stressed to the max? When life piles on, your body pumps out cortisol—the “stress hormone”. Cortisol disrupts other hormonal systems and promotes oil production. The result? Uninvited breakouts that love to make themselves known.

3. Poor Liver Detoxification

Your liver is like your body’s cleanup crew, busy filtering out extra hormones and toxins. But if it’s overworked—thanks to a busy life, environmental toxins, diet, or other stressors – it can’t keep up. That means hormones linger longer than they should and can trigger inflammation and breakouts.

4. Blood Sugar Dysregulation

Those afternoon snack attacks might be causing more drama than you thought. When your blood sugar spikes from carb-heavy meals without enough protein or fat, your insulin surges. This can increase androgen hormones, which tell your skin to produce more oil—and you know what that means, extra shine and clogged pores waiting to happen.

5. Gut Health

Your gut and your skin? They’re more connected than you’d think—when one is out of balance, the other is quick to show it. When your digestion is sluggish or your gut bacteria is out of whack, your body struggles to clear out used hormones. The result? Those hormones stick around, stirring up inflammation and sending your skin into breakouts.

Ready to kick hormonal acne to the curb and enjoy clear, glowing skin all month long? If you’re curious about why those stubborn breakouts just won’t quit—or want a personalised plan to finally get your skin back on track—give us a call at 02 4961 4075 or book an appointment online here to talk to one of our qualified naturopaths. We are here to help you find the root cause of your hormonal acne and support your skin from the inside out. Let’s get you feeling confident in your skin again!