Think acne is just for teenagers? Think again. Many adults—especially women—struggle with breakouts well into their 30s, 40s, and even 50s. This persistent adult acne often has a common culprit: hormones.

Why Hormonal Acne Happens

Unlike occasional surface breakouts, hormonal acne often shows up as deep, painful cysts around the chin, jawline, neck, and lower face. This type of acne tends to flare:

Right before your period

During perimenopause and menopause

In times of high stress

With underlying conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Androgens (male hormones present in both sexes) stimulate oil glands to produce more sebum, which can clog pores and feed acne-causing bacteria—resulting in inflammation and those stubborn, under-the-skin nodules.

Recognizing the Signs

Hormonal acne tends to be:

Deep and tender (rather than blackheads or small whiteheads)

Concentrated around the lower face

Recurring in a predictable pattern (often linked to menstrual cycles)

Effective Solutions

Because hormonal acne is driven by internal changes, it often needs more than just scrubs and over-the-counter spot treatments. Some proven solutions include:

Prescription topicals: Retinoids and antibiotic creams help clear pores and reduce inflammation.

Oral medications: Birth control pills or spironolactone can regulate hormone fluctuations in women.

Professional treatments: Chemical peels, laser therapy, and microneedling can improve skin texture and reduce scarring.

Lifestyle support: Managing stress, adopting a skin-friendly diet, and choosing non-comedogenic skincare and makeup.

When to Seek Help

If your acne is persistent, painful, or leaving scars, seeing a dermatologist can help you avoid worsening breakouts and protect your skin’s long-term health.

Get Clear, Confident Skin

You deserve to feel confident in your skin—at every age. At Derm Associates, we offer personalized treatment plans to address hormonal acne and restore your complexion’s clarity.

📍 Medical Arts Building

1060 South Main Street, Suite 1

Tipton, IN 46072

📞 (317) 961-1868