.webp)
Struggling with persistent acne caused by PCOS? You're not alone - up to 40% of women with PCOS deal with acne due to hormonal imbalances, especially elevated androgen levels. This type of acne often appears along the jawline, chin, and neck, forming deep, stubborn lesions that can be physically and emotionally draining.
Here’s what you can do:
- Diet Adjustments: Follow an anti-inflammatory diet like the Mediterranean diet. Focus on whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, and omega-3-rich foods while limiting processed snacks, sugary drinks, and fried foods.
- Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity and lower androgen levels. Aim for a mix of aerobic and strength training exercises.
- Supplements: Consider options like myo-inositol for insulin resistance, omega-3s for inflammation, and zinc for skin health.
- Medical Treatments: Hormonal treatments like birth control pills and spironolactone target androgen levels. Insulin-sensitizing medications like metformin can also help.
- Telehealth: Platforms like Oana Health provide easy access to personalized PCOS care, including medications like spironolactone and metformin, delivered to your door.
Addressing PCOS acne requires tackling its root cause - hormonal imbalance. A combination of lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and consistent care can make a real difference. Keep reading for actionable strategies to manage your symptoms and improve your skin.
PCOS Acne Explained: Why It Happens & How to Treat It Naturally! | Clear Skin Clinic, Pune
How Androgens Cause Acne
Understanding how androgens contribute to acne is essential for managing PCOS-related skin concerns. These hormones set off a chain reaction that leads to acne, making it necessary to focus on treatments that address hormonal imbalances.
How PCOS Raises Androgen Levels
PCOS disrupts normal hormone production in the ovaries, leading to elevated androgen levels and heightened sensitivity. This often results in persistent acne and excessive hair growth, affecting about 60% of women with PCOS. Interestingly, nearly half of adult acne cases are tied to this androgen imbalance. Studies have found that levels of androsterone glucuronide - an androgen byproduct - are significantly higher in women with adult acne. Even among patients with normal androgen levels, up to 60% show signs of increased sensitivity to these hormones.
Why Androgens Trigger Acne
Androgens, such as testosterone, stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more sebum while also altering its composition. This excess sebum clogs hair follicles, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and inflammation to occur.
"Increased sebum production due to androgens' activity at the sebaceous follicle is a prerequisite for acne in all patients."
Hyperandrogenism fuels acne by boosting sebum production and changing its lipid makeup.
Androgens also play a role in shaping skin structure. They regulate the growth and function of sebaceous glands, especially on the face, and encourage sebocyte proliferation. However, their ability to influence sebocyte differentiation depends on the presence of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) ligands.
Once excess sebum is produced, it mixes with dead skin cells and debris, clogging hair follicles and forming comedones (commonly known as clogged pores). This creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, particularly Cutibacterium acnes. These bacteria break down sebum into fatty acids, which irritate the pore lining. The body responds by sending white blood cells to the area, triggering inflammation that appears as red, swollen pimples, pustules, or cysts.
"Increased androgen production plays a major role in inducing the sebum alterations that participate to the pathogenesis of adult acne."
Androgens can also interfere with the skin's barrier function and slow down wound healing, which exacerbates inflammation in adult skin. This explains why PCOS-related acne often presents as deeper, more painful lesions that take longer to heal and are more likely to leave scars.
Addressing androgen imbalances is a critical first step before implementing lifestyle changes. This hormonal chain reaction highlights the importance of targeted treatments, which we’ll explore further in the next section on lifestyle strategies for balancing hormones.
Lifestyle Changes for PCOS Acne
Understanding the hormonal mechanisms behind PCOS acne is just one piece of the puzzle. Making targeted lifestyle changes can significantly improve skin health by addressing insulin resistance and inflammation.
Diet Changes for Hormone Balance
What you eat plays a big role in managing PCOS-related acne. Many women with PCOS face challenges such as obesity, systemic inflammation, metabolic syndrome, and insulin resistance, with up to 75% experiencing insulin resistance. This makes stabilizing blood sugar levels essential for balancing hormones.
One diet that stands out for managing PCOS is the Mediterranean diet, known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Amanda Stathos, M.S., R.D., L.D.N., explains:
"Research shows that people with PCOS show evidence of all-over inflammation, which is associated with heart disease and other illness. The Mediterranean diet eliminates saturated fats, processed meats and refined sugar, which makes it a powerful tool to address inflammation."
This diet emphasizes non-starchy vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, healthy carbs, and low-fat dairy. Incorporating more fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants from whole, plant-based foods can further support hormone balance.
Foods that can help balance hormones:
- Fish rich in omega-3s like salmon
- Olive oil and nuts such as walnuts and pistachios
- Protein-packed legumes like black beans, kidney beans, and lentils
- Non-starchy vegetables including leafy greens, tomatoes, and broccoli
- Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and barley
- Fruits such as berries and citrus
- Seeds like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and sunflower seeds
Foods to limit or avoid for clearer skin:
- Fried foods and processed snacks (e.g., cakes, cookies, candy)
- Saturated fats like butter and margarine
- Red and processed meats
- Sugary drinks (sodas, sports drinks)
- Refined flour products like white bread and pasta
- Alcohol
Eating consistently throughout the day - combining complex carbs, lean protein, and healthy fats in meals - helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevents overeating. Amanda Stathos also advises a balanced approach to carbohydrates:
"Eliminating carbs is not something I recommend. However, choosing more low-glycemic carbohydrates (those that do not cause a surge in blood sugar) such as fiber-rich whole grains and non-starchy vegetables can be helpful. The goal is to keep blood sugar stable and avoid big dips and spikes. Smaller, more frequent meals can really help, combined with balanced snacks so you're eating about every four hours."
Exercise for Androgen Control
Exercise is another powerful tool for managing PCOS. Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, lowers androgen levels, and can help reduce acne. Both aerobic and resistance training are beneficial, as they help regulate testosterone levels and ease other PCOS symptoms. Women with PCOS are also three times more likely to experience depression or anxiety, making exercise an important strategy for mental health.
Aiming for 30 minutes of activity most days is a good starting point. This can include a mix of aerobic exercises like walking, swimming, or running, and strength training sessions. Consistency is key, so choose activities you enjoy to make it sustainable.
Dr. Gill Lockwood highlights the broader impact of PCOS:
"PCOS is a spectrum of symptoms which can vary in severity and which can have life-long implications for women's health and well-being. Many of the aspects of young women's lives that cause them the most distress; poor skin, excess weight, irregular periods and low mood are symptoms of PCOS. It is frankly shocking that this common and treatable condition is so neglected and under-diagnosed."
When designing an exercise routine, balance is essential. High-intensity workouts can sometimes disrupt menstrual cycles, so alternating between high and low-intensity days, along with rest days, is important. Combining exercise with stress-reducing practices like yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises can further support PCOS management.
Supplements for Skin and Hormone Health
In addition to diet and exercise, certain supplements can help manage PCOS acne by addressing hormonal imbalances and reducing inflammation.
Myo-inositol is one of the most researched supplements for PCOS. It improves insulin sensitivity, hormonal balance, and reproductive function. In fact, a review of 26 clinical trials found it to be as effective as metformin for these purposes.
Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for acne management. A small trial showed that 2,000 mg of omega-3s daily significantly reduced acne within 10 weeks. These healthy fats also reduce inflammation and support overall hormone balance. While dietary sources are ideal, a high-quality omega-3 supplement can be considered.
Zinc supports skin health and hormone regulation, aiding in blood sugar management as well. Vitamins C and A also play roles in maintaining healthy skin and stable blood sugar levels.
Probiotics may help improve the gut-skin connection, which is particularly relevant for PCOS-related acne, as systemic inflammation often contributes to breakouts.
Vitamin D deficiency is common in women with PCOS, with up to 85% affected in some studies. Supplementation supports hormone production, immune function, and skin health.
Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, explains the importance of addressing internal factors:
"Acne and polycystic ovary syndrome are related to what's happening within your body, which is why a comprehensive approach to address the underlying imbalances happening inside your body, along with solutions for your skin is the best approach."
Berberine is another supplement worth considering. It's been shown to lower insulin and glucose levels, reduce LDL cholesterol, and increase HDL cholesterol, with effects comparable to metformin.
These lifestyle changes work together to tackle the hormonal imbalances that drive PCOS acne. In some cases, medical treatments may also be necessary - stay tuned for the next section to learn more about those options.
sbb-itb-6dba428
Medical Treatments for PCOS Acne
When lifestyle changes aren't enough to manage PCOS-related acne, prescription treatments can step in to address the hormonal imbalances at the root of the issue. Many women find that these medical options offer significant relief and help tackle acne more effectively.
Hormone Treatments: Birth Control and Anti-Androgens
Combined oral contraceptives, which include both estrogen and a progestin, are often the go-to treatment for acne linked to PCOS. These pills work by lowering androgen levels and increasing sex hormone–binding globulin, which reduces circulating testosterone. Studies show that combined oral contraceptives can improve acne by 40–50% within three cycles and by as much as 80–90% after nine cycles, with continued benefits over a full year of use. Pills containing anti-androgenic progestins, such as drospirenone or dienogest, tend to deliver the best outcomes.
Another effective option is spironolactone, a medication that blocks androgen receptors in the skin. Research highlights its ability to significantly reduce acne symptoms after 24 weeks of treatment, with particularly promising results for women over 30. Pairing spironolactone with a combined birth control pill has been shown to reduce hirsutism, lower testosterone levels, and improve menstrual irregularities in women with PCOS.
"Spironolactone may be effective against hormonal and PCOS acne when other treatments haven't worked. This medication is safe for most adults, but avoid use during pregnancy due to potential harm to a developing fetus." – Jacqueline Zuponcic, DO, Ob/Gyn, Cleveland Clinic
Oana Health provides spironolactone through telehealth services, offering professional prescriptions and convenient home delivery.
These hormonal treatments can serve as a foundation for additional therapies, including topical or systemic medications.
Topical and Oral Acne Medications
To complement hormonal treatments, direct acne therapies can play a crucial role. Prescription topical retinoids, for example, help speed up cell turnover and reduce inflammation more effectively than over-the-counter options. For severe or stubborn acne, oral retinoids like isotretinoin (Accutane) may be necessary.
Topical spironolactone is another option for those who want localized anti-androgen benefits without systemic effects. Oana Health offers topical spironolactone as part of its comprehensive PCOS care.
Insulin-Sensitizing Medications
Tackling insulin resistance can further enhance acne treatment for women with PCOS. Metformin, a medication commonly used for diabetes, has shown promise in improving PCOS-related acne by addressing insulin resistance, which affects up to 70% of women with this condition. A meta-analysis of 51 studies found that adding metformin significantly improved acne scores. In specific studies, metformin reduced acne severity by 71% after three months and by 49% within eight weeks.
"Metformin reduces ovarian hyperandrogenism, leading to clinical improvement of acne in women with PCOS." – Shilpi Sharma, Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology at SMS Medical College
Metformin works by lowering glucose production in the liver, improving insulin sensitivity, and possibly benefiting the gut microbiome. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can promote healthier skin. While gastrointestinal side effects like nausea are common, taking the medication with food often helps minimize discomfort.
Oana Health offers oral metformin starting at $22 per month for extended-release versions, as well as combination treatments that pair metformin with spironolactone for a more comprehensive approach to hormonal balance.
Collaborating with your healthcare provider to tailor a treatment plan can make a significant difference in managing PCOS-related acne effectively.
Getting Treatment Through Telehealth
Dealing with PCOS-related acne doesn’t have to involve endless waits for appointments or exhausting commutes. Telehealth is changing the game, making expert hormonal care easier to access and more affordable. This approach works hand-in-hand with the treatment strategies discussed earlier, offering a streamlined way to manage your symptoms.
How Oana Health Can Help
Oana Health focuses on telehealth services designed specifically for women managing hormonal imbalances and PCOS symptoms, including persistent acne. The platform connects you with licensed medical professionals who understand the intricate link between hormones like androgens and skin health.
With Oana Health, you can access many of the treatments mentioned earlier. Here’s a breakdown of the options:
- Oral metformin: Starting at $22 per month, this extended-release formulation helps tackle insulin resistance, a common PCOS issue.
- Metformin plus spironolactone: Available for $32 monthly, this combination addresses both insulin sensitivity and excess androgens.
- Standalone spironolactone: Offered at $14 per month for those focusing on anti-androgen therapy.
- Topical spironolactone: Priced at $43 monthly, ideal for women who prefer a localized treatment approach.
All medications are prescribed after a thorough review of your health history and delivered directly to your door with free shipping.
What makes Oana Health stand out is its commitment to personalized care. Instead of generic solutions, they create tailored treatment plans that consider your unique symptoms, medical history, and goals. This individualized approach is especially important for PCOS, where symptoms and their severity can vary widely.
Benefits of Online PCOS Treatment
Telehealth offers more than just convenience - it’s a practical solution for overcoming the challenges of accessing specialized care. Did you know that only 13% of U.S. counties have practicing endocrinologists? For many women, this makes seeing a specialist incredibly difficult. Even in cities, wait times can stretch over four months.
Telehealth removes these hurdles. A 2023 study found that telehealth reduced out-of-pocket expenses for PCOS patients by 40%, thanks to savings on transportation, fewer clinic co-pays, and less need for unpaid time off work. For women juggling multiple health concerns, this financial relief can make a big difference.
"Telehealth is closing an enormous gap for women with PCOS who live far from specialized care. It's proving to be not only convenient but clinically effective." – Dr. Jessica Sanders, Reproductive Endocrinologist at the University of Utah Health Center
Another major benefit? Medication adherence improved by 45% with telehealth compared to traditional care. This boost likely comes from the frequent support and follow-ups that telehealth platforms provide.
"By using telehealth, we can make weekly tweaks to a patient's diet, medication, or lifestyle without them having to leave home." – Dr. Lisa Chang, Telehealth Coordinator at Emory Women's Health Center
This kind of ongoing monitoring is critical for PCOS treatment. Adjusting medications and finding the right combination often takes time, and telehealth allows for regular check-ins and quick adjustments - something that’s harder to achieve with traditional care.
Privacy is another bonus. Discussing sensitive topics like acne, weight, or unwanted hair growth can feel much easier from the comfort of your own home. This relaxed setting often leads to more open communication, which can improve treatment outcomes.
For women with packed schedules, telehealth offers flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. This accessibility is crucial, especially since up to 70% of PCOS cases remain undiagnosed.
Telehealth platforms also provide a holistic approach to PCOS care. Instead of juggling separate appointments for acne, hair loss, and metabolic concerns, services like Oana Health address these interconnected symptoms all in one place. By focusing on the hormonal pathways that link these issues, telehealth makes managing PCOS more efficient and effective.
Taking Control of PCOS Acne
Managing PCOS-related acne starts with understanding that it’s more than just a skin issue - it’s a symptom of a deeper hormonal imbalance. Tackling this requires a well-rounded approach that combines lifestyle changes with medical solutions.
"Acne and polycystic ovary syndrome are related to what's happening within your body, which is why a comprehensive approach to address the underlying imbalances happening inside your body, along with solutions for your skin is the best approach." – Dr. Jolene Brighten
To begin, focus on lifestyle adjustments that target the root causes. An anti-inflammatory, fiber-rich diet, regular exercise to enhance insulin sensitivity, and supplements like myo-inositol and omega-3s can help regulate androgen levels, which are often responsible for PCOS acne. These changes lay the groundwork for hormonal balance, which is critical for clear skin.
When lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, medical treatments can step in to address the hormonal drivers more directly. Options like spironolactone, metformin, and hormonal contraceptives work by reducing androgen production and improving insulin resistance. Even modest progress, like a 5% reduction in body weight, can significantly lower insulin and androgen levels, boosting the effectiveness of these treatments.
Unfortunately, many women go undiagnosed and struggle without proper care. But getting the right diagnosis and treatment can be transformative. For example, patients of Oana Health have found that personalized telehealth services make it easier to access tailored care.
"You may be told that acne, hair growth or other PCOS symptoms are just something you have to live with, but this isn't the case. Safe, effective therapies are available and you deserve a chance to look and feel your best." – Jacqueline Zuponcic, DO, Ob/Gyn
It’s important to note that treating PCOS acne requires addressing the underlying hormonal imbalance. Surface treatments might manage symptoms temporarily, but they won’t tackle the androgens triggering breakouts. Whether you choose in-person care or telehealth options like Oana Health, the key is taking proactive steps.
Your skin is a reflection of your overall hormonal health. By addressing PCOS holistically - through diet, exercise, medications, and consistent medical support - you’re not just improving your skin; you’re taking charge of your health and paving the way for long-term wellness.
FAQs
How can I tell if my acne is caused by PCOS and high androgen levels?
Acne associated with PCOS and elevated androgen levels often appears alongside other symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles, excessive facial or body hair, and thinning hair on the scalp. A healthcare provider can confirm this connection by evaluating your symptoms and conducting blood tests to measure androgen levels. Elevated androgens can stimulate oil production, which may lead to acne, especially on the face.
If these symptoms sound familiar, reaching out to a medical professional is essential. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Tackling the hormonal imbalance at its root can help manage acne and other PCOS-related issues more effectively.
What lifestyle changes can help manage acne caused by PCOS?
Managing acne linked to PCOS often begins with adopting healthier habits. Incorporating regular physical activity - like walking or yoga - can help regulate hormones and ease symptoms. A diet packed with whole foods, fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while cutting back on processed foods and refined sugars, plays a big role in managing this condition. Keeping a healthy weight and prioritizing quality sleep each night also contribute to better hormonal balance.
Stress management is another crucial piece of the puzzle. Techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises can help minimize acne flare-ups. When paired with medical advice, these lifestyle changes can go a long way in keeping PCOS-related acne under control.
What should I know about the side effects of medical treatments like spironolactone or metformin for PCOS-related acne?
Spironolactone and metformin are often used to help manage PCOS symptoms, including acne. However, like any medication, they can bring along potential side effects.
Spironolactone might cause issues such as breast tenderness, dizziness, irregular periods, or elevated potassium levels. On the other hand, metformin is known for side effects like nausea, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Although uncommon, more serious complications such as hypoglycemia or lactic acidosis could occur with metformin.
Before starting either medication, it's essential to consult with a licensed healthcare provider. They can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks based on your individual health history.
