Acne.org ProductsHormones and Acne: The Complete Knowledge Hub (0% AI – 100% human research and writing)
Hormones are one of the primary drivers of acne. Understanding how different hormones affect your skin can help explain why breakouts happen and what you can do about them.
This hub covers the role of key hormones, including testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol, in acne development, as well as how external hormone sources like steroids can trigger severe breakouts.
The information is as science-based and thorough as possible. If you find anything inaccurate or that needs updating, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Understanding Hormonal Acne
Hormones, particularly androgens (male hormones present in both males and females), play a central role in acne development by stimulating oil production in the skin.
The Role of Hormones in Acne
When it comes to acne, androgens (male hormones present in both males and females) are primarily at fault.
Hormones and Acne – Testosterone and Estrogen
Learn how testosterone and estrogen interact to influence acne development.
Specific Hormones and Acne
Different hormones affect acne in different ways. Some increase oil production and worsen breakouts, while others can actually help improve acne.
The Role of Testosterone in Acne
The main culprit. In both males and females, testosterone and other male hormones increase acne by stimulating the skin to produce more skin oil (sebum).
The Role of Estrogen in Acne
The balancing hormone. In both males and females, estrogens improve acne by decreasing the production of skin oil.
What Is Cortisol, and Does It Affect Acne?
The stress hormone. Cortisol affects factors involved in acne, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse.
External Hormones and Acne
Taking hormones externally, whether for athletic performance or other reasons, can dramatically affect acne. Here’s what the research shows.
Do Anabolic Steroids Cause Acne?
Using anabolic steroids dramatically increases the risk of developing acne, including severe acne.
Can Prohormones Cause Acne?
Yes, and they’re not worth it. Prohormones likely cause acne, and they don’t even help with muscle size and strength.