Here’s a little truth bomb… all acne has hormonal roots.
So technically, every breakout could be classed as hormonal acne.
When people use the term, they’re usually referring to acne linked to puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause – times when our hormones fluctuate more dramatically.
It often shows up as sore, stubborn spots along the jawline, chin, neck, and back. For some, it’s an occasional flare-up; for others, it can feel constant and frustrating. But here’s the good news, with the right approach, the right products, and a little consistency, your skin can absolutely find its balance again.
What’s Really Happening Beneath the Surface
Hormonal acne usually starts with an increase in androgens (a type of hormone present in all of us). These can trigger:
- Excess oil production, feeding acne-causing bacteria
- Faster skin cell turnover, which can block pores
- Inflammation, leading to papules, pustules, and cysts
It’s a bit of a perfect storm. But the more we understand your skin’s triggers, the better we can calm and reset it, gently, without stripping or stressing it further.
What You Can Do to Support Your Skin
1. Simplify and Strengthen Your Routine
Choose medical-grade skincare that’s designed to work at a cellular level…it’s not just about surface-level cleansing, it’s about restoring balance.
A consistent, twice-daily routine really does make a difference. Think of it as time for you rather than another task.
2. Key Ingredients to Look For
- Retinoids – help unclog pores and improve cell turnover.
- Salicylic acid – targets excess oil and deep cleans pores.
- Niacinamide – calms inflammation and strengthens your skin barrier.
If you’re building your kit, products like the PCA Blemish Control Bar are brilliant staples. For the occasional breakout, a targeted spot treatment such as PCA Acne Gel can help prevent spots from developing further, without drying out the rest of your skin.
3. Go Easy at Home – and Book Professional Support
Over-exfoliating can do more harm than good. Harsh scrubs and frequent acids strip the skin’s natural oils, often leading to more breakouts.
Instead, combine a simple at-home routine with professional treatments such as:
- Prescription-strength retinol peels
- Deep pore cleanses
- Personalised medical-grade facials
These treatments work together to calm inflammation, rebalance oil, and clear congestion – all without compromising your skin barrier.
4. The Little Habits That Make a Big Differenc
- Avoid hot water — it strips essential moisture.
- Keep your hands off your face (bacteria = breakouts).
- Clean your makeup brushes and phone regularly.
- Please — resist the urge to pick or squeeze. It can worsen inflammation and lead to scarring.
Your skin needs care, not punishment.
5. When to Seek Medical Support
For severe or persistent hormonal acne, we may recommend consulting your GP to discuss possible hormone-regulating medications. At Ametrine, we can also work alongside your medical provider to create a supportive skincare plan that complements your treatment.
Healing hormonal acne is rarely instant, but with the right guidance, it is possible. Consistency, education, and care are key.
A Note from Steph 🌿
As someone who’s worked with hundreds of acne-prone clients (and been one myself!), I know just how much these breakouts can affect not just your skin…but your confidence.
My approach is always about education, patience, and progress. I love helping clients understand their skin, find products that genuinely work, and see those calm, healthy results build over time.
If you’re ready to get to the root of your breakouts and start your own skin-healing journey, book a consultation with me at Ametrine.
We’ll sit down, talk through your current routine, and create a plan that fits you, your skin, your life, and your goals.
Steph x
