Your skin will often serve as a visible indicator of your internal health.

If you are a woman grappling with PCOS, it can be a sign of a hormonal imbalance.

PCOS frequently manifests in dermatological symptoms such as persistent acne.

It can cause dark patches on your skin, known as acanthosis nigricans.

These visible manifestations emphasise the importance of a multifaceted treatment approach.

One that addresses both the hormonal aspects of PCOS and its impact on skin health.

In this article, we explore the link between PCOS and acne and effective ways to manage your symptoms.

Understanding PCOS Acne

Acne is a skin condition caused by oil and dead skin, obstructing hair follicles and forming pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.

A common cause could be an underlying medical condition, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

This is a hormonal disorder that affects up to 13% of all women of reproductive age. This study demonstrates that irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and the development of small cysts on the ovaries characterise it (1).

It is very important to understand if PCOS is the cause of acne, especially if medical consultation has not yet been sought.

Recognising the root cause is key to addressing the physical and emotional effects, leading to more effective and personalised solutions. By focusing on the underlying issue, the impact of acne can be reduced, improving both skin health and overall well-being.

Unfortunately, the impact of PCOS-related acne on women’s lives can be both physically painful and uncomfortable. For some, breakouts can be so severe that it results in bleeding and inflammation. Acne can also have a significant psychological effect.

Many women with PCOS-related acne report feelings of self-consciousness, shame, and low self-esteem. In the worst cases, it can also cause anxiety and depression, affecting a woman’s overall quality of life and well-being.

Additionally, the visible symptoms of acne can lead to social and professional stigma, which can further compound the emotional toll it takes on women with PCOS.

Treating PCOS 

Lifestyle modifications

This study (2) found that maintaining a healthy diet is essential for treating PCOS-related acne. Refined carbohydrates and sugar can increase insulin levels, which can exacerbate acne.

Therefore, women with PCOS must follow a low-glycemic diet that emphasises whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Additionally, consuming antioxidant-rich foods, such as berries and leafy greens, can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Regular exercise is another essential lifestyle modification for managing PCOS-related acne.

Exercise can help regulate insulin levels, improve circulation, and reduce stress, all of which work towards acne reduction. Women with PCOS should aim to engage in moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, several times a week.

Stress reduction techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, can also be beneficial for women with PCOS-related acne.

Chronic stress can increase androgen levels, which can contribute to acne breakouts. Incorporating stress-reducing activities into daily routines can help balance hormones and improve skin health.

Medications for PCOS Acne

Because PCOS acne is a complex disease, various medications target specific symptoms. Many of these medications, by extension, also improve other manifestations since PCOS symptoms tend to influence one another.

For example, weight loss medication for PCOS also targets acne. In the same way, birth control pills also work by suppressing androgen production; they contain hormones such as estrogen and progestin and help regulate the menstrual cycle in women with PCOS.

For some women whose most prominent PCOS symptoms are acne, doctors may prescribe more dedicated medications. These can involve oral treatments that target pustular and cystic acne, which are expected to be PCOS.

Skincare for PCOS Acne

When selecting skincare products to address PCOS, opting for those that work beyond the skin’s surface is crucial. A gentle cleanser, like our Miracle Cleanse, is designed to remove impurities without leaving an oily residue or clogging pores, which can exacerbate acne.

Regular moisturising is vital, as dryness and irritation can trigger PCOS. A daily oil-free moisturiser, such as our Quench Plumping Peptide Gel, helps maintain skin hydration without adding excess oil.

Vitamin A, like that found in our A+ Retinol Complex, can be added to skincare routines to promote skin cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.

To conclude. The naked truth

PCOS-related acne is a complex manifestation influenced by hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated androgen levels. While not the most severe symptom of PCOS, it can significantly impact both physical and psychological well-being.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress-reduction techniques can be crucial in managing PCOS-related acne.

Adopting a low-glycemic diet rich in antioxidants and engaging in moderate-intensity exercise helps regulate insulin levels and reduce overall stress.

Medications such as Metformin, GLP-1, and birth control pills address hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS, contributing to improved hormonal balance and reduced acne symptoms.

Skincare is another integral aspect of managing PCOS acne. Gentle cleansers can prevent pore blockage, and oil-free moisturisers, such as Clarify pH-balancing gel, can help combat dryness.

If you are concerned you may have this condition, we recommend consulting with your healthcare professionals. They can tailor a personalised treatment plan to address your needs and concerns.

References

1. Hormonal profile and polycystic ovaries in women with acne vulgaris

2. A low-glycemic-load diet improves symptoms in acne vulgaris patients: a randomised controlled trial.