If you see new acne or flare around your periods, occur along the jawline or feel deep and painful, hormones are usually involved. Think of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as a probable root cause. Here’s a clear guide I share with my own patients at Clinderma.
What’s actually happening?
Hormones like androgens (male hormones) tell oil glands to produce more sebum. When sebum mixes with dead skin, pores clog and bacteria thrive. In PCOS, insulin resistance and higher androgens often keep this cycle running, so breakouts occur and recur.
How do I know it’s hormonal?
Common clues: cyst-like bumps on the chin and jaw, flares a week before periods, body acne on the chest or back and acne that improves during pregnancy or on certain pills. With PCOS, you may also notice irregular periods, hair thinning on the scalp or excess facial hair. If that happens, it’s worth a consultation at Clinderma, not just trying another face wash.
Start with a calm, consistent routine
Morning: Acnetrol cleanser → Acnetrol moisturizer → Acnetrol UV sunscreen
Night: Acnetrol cleanser → Targeted treatment → Acnetrol moisturizer.
What treatments help when PCOS is the cause?
Topicals are key, but hormones often need to be targeted. Depending on your health profile, our doctors may suggest:
• Combined oral contraceptives: steady hormones can mean better skin.
• Anti-androgens (like spironolactone)
• Metformin: sometimes used when insulin resistance is part of your PCOS picture.
These are medical decisions, get a personalized plan only after consultation rather than self-starting.
Lifestyle modifications that actually play a bigger role
• Sleep and stress: late nights and chronic stress push cortisol up, which can worsen oiliness. Aim for regular sleep and simple stress breaks (a 10-minute walk works).
• Movement: exercise/ workout improves insulin sensitivity, which can help with PCOS-related acne.
• Food: balanced meals with protein, fibre and healthy fats help stabilize energy and cravings. Notice your own triggers (for some, frequent sugary snacks or whey protein can flare acne).
• Don’t pick: it turns a small bump into a permanent mark or scar
Hyperpigmentation and scars
Once breakouts settle, marks can be a big problem. Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Ingredients like azelaic acid, retinoids, and dermatologist-guided peels or lasers can fade spots and smooth texture. Treat active acne first; then target marks.
When to see a dermatologist
At Clinderma, we recommend consulting a dermatologist as soon as possible for a pin-point solution with long lasting effects as root cause analysis and treatment go a long way in not just treating acne, but also preventing recurrence.
The bottom line
Hormonal acne, especially with PCOS, is manageable with consistent skincare, the right actives and root cause targeted medical therapy along with lifestyle modifications. You don’t need a bag full of products; you need a clear plan and patience. If you’d like a personalised routine focusing on the root cause, we do this every day at Clinderma. Your skin can absolutely get better, it’s just a click away!
