Acne happens when hair follicles clog with oil and dead skin cells. On an adult face, the acne may show up as whiteheads, blackheads, red bumps or painful nodules under the skin.
Read more about adult acne on this page: https://onefaceclinic.com/the-attack-of-adult-acne-im-already-in-my-30s-and-40s-why-do-i-still-have-troubling-active-acne-on-my-face/. Now, most acne is not dangerous.
While it can itch or hurt, it rarely leads to serious health issues so the real acne risk is scarring. If you squeeze or pick at spots, you can leave marks or pits.
Long-term acne can also affect your self-esteem so treating acne early is wise. It lets you clear your skin and avoid scars.
How do I Know if my Acne is Hormonal or Bacterial?
Hormonal and bacterial acne aren’t treated the same way. Hormonal acne needs internal treatments like hormone therapy, while bacterial acne responds to topical or antibiotic treatments. That said to find the right treatment, you will first want to know the type of acne you’re having thus the commonly asked question; how do I know if my acne is hormonal or bacterial?
To tell if your acne is hormonal or bacterial, look at the location, timing, and appearance of your acne, as well as your age and response to treatment. Hormonal acne typically appears on the lower face (jawline, chin), is cyclical (often worsening before menstruation), and may present as deep, painful cysts. Bacterial acne, on the other hand, can occur anywhere on the face and body, is less predictable in timing.
It may include pustules and blackheads. Importantly, if antibiotics clear your acne quickly, bacteria may be the main cause.
However, if your acne flares around your period, stress or diet changes, hormones are likely at work. Hormonal acne often never fully clears with antibacterial creams alone. In that case, you may need treatments that target hormones directly.
What are the 5 Key Signs your Adult Acne is Hormonal?
As you have seen, acne is best managed when identified correctly. If you suspect that your adult acne could be hormonal, here are the five clear signs you will want to check for:
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Breakouts Cycle with your Period
Many women who visit our clinic for adult acne treatment in Singapore see acne worsen in the week before their period. This timing matches the drop in oestrogen and rise in progesterone.
Progesterone spikes boost oil production which means that it directly feeds the bacteria in your pores. If clearing your skin never lasts past each cycle, hormones are likely the culprit.
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Deep, Painful Cysts and Nodules
One of the most notable characteristics of adult hormonal acne is the fact that they tend to form cysts. These are basically large, sore lumps that form deep under the skin.
These spots do not come to a head like whiteheads or blackheads but hurt more and last longer. Over-the-counter products often fail to clear them, so you may need prescription creams or hormone-blocking treatments.
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Acne in the Lower Face and Jawline
Teen acne often appears on the forehead and cheeks, but hormonal acne shows up around the jaw and chin. This pattern links to the receptors for androgen hormones in that area.
With adult hormone acne, you may notice small bumps or clusters of pimples along your jaw. If you see a sudden flare-up there as an adult, hormones could be the culprits.
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Adult Onset Despite a Clear Teen Years
Some adults get acne for the first time in their twenties, thirties or beyond. If you had clear skin as a teen but later develop acne, hormones may have shifted.
Factors like stress, weight changes and medical conditions can change hormone levels. Sudden adult acne without a history is suggestive of a hormonal trigger.
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Resistance to Standard Acne Treatments
Products with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or retinoids target oil and bacteria. Hormonal acne often resists these treatments alone which means that you may see very little improvement.
In fact, new spots may keep appearing. If you need to add hormone-based therapy—like birth control pills or anti-androgen drugs—you likely have hormonal acne.
How to Balance Hormones to Manage Acne
That far if you believe your adult acne is indeed triggered by hormonal changes, the best treatment approach will be to try and balance your hormones. If done correctly, balancing hormones can clear stubborn adult acne. If you do not know where to begin, here are four suggestions you may find helpful;
- Speak to a Doctor: A trained doctor or skilled dermatologist can test your hormone levels. They may order blood tests to check androgens, oestrogen and progesterone. With data, they can suggest birth control pills or anti-androgen medications to try and reduce excess oil production at the source.
- Adopt a Low-Glycaemic Diet: Foods high in refined sugars and white flour can spike insulin. High insulin increases sebum production and androgen hormones. Swap white bread, sweets and sugary drinks for whole grains, fruits and vegetables. This change helps stabilise both insulin and hormone levels to reduce acne flare-ups.
- Manage Stress Effectively: Stress raises cortisol, a hormone that can fuel oil production. To manage stress easily, focus on practical, daily habits like exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and mindful practices. Also, prioritize social connections, find time for relaxation, and consider seeking professional help if needed.
- Consider Supplements: Some natural supplements can help balance hormones. Zinc supports immune health and may reduce oil gland activity. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory benefits. Spearmint tea has shown promise in lowering androgens in some studies. Please, discuss supplements with your doctor to ensure they suit you.
In Closing
Adult acne linked to hormones can feel frustrating because standard acne creams may not clear these spots alone. Here’s where working with a skilled acne doctor comes it.
Thanks to proper assessments these specialists provide, you can get accurate diagnosis and prescriptions. You many need to combine diet changes, stress management and the right supplements offers the best chance for clear skin.
But, keep in mind that each body is unique and what works for one person may not work for another. Patience and consistency could be key.
Our clinic offers expert skin assessments and tailored acne treatments. If you do not know what kind of acne you have, let’s help you do that and put you on the right treatment. Call or visit us today at;
One Face Skin Care – Melasma | Pigmentation | Acne Treatment Singapore
1 Tras Link, #02-03/04 Orchid Hotel, Singapore 078867
https://onefaceskincare.com.sg/
+65 8809 9066
