Hormonal acne is caused largely by sex hormones

Simply put, acne that is caused due to hormone imbalance in the body is called hormonal acne. During puberty, the pituitary gland stimulates the production of Gonadotropins. These sex hormones play an important role in acne outbursts because they stimulate the activity of the sebaceous glands leading to the clogging of skin pores.

Of all the Gonadotropins released by the body the androgens are the most important cause of acne problems. By definition androgens are male sex hormones that are secreted by the adrenal gland. They are produced in both men and women, though in women they are produced in small quantities. But even this small quantity can trigger an acne response.

The androgens that are responsible for stimulating the sebaceous glands are testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. Over-activity of the sebaceous glands results in clogging of the pores. The blockage occurs due to the accumulation of oils, fluids, skin and bacterial cells which erupt in the form of papules and pustules. The acne problems are further aggravated by stress and a demanding work style. One should not forget genes; they can also carry the acne code from one generation to another.

Hormonal acne is common among women who are pregnant. This is due to high fluctuation in the levels of the hormones in the body. The signs and symptoms usually are mild but can be severe in some cases. They usually disappear once the hormone levels in the body stabilize or the pregnancy term is completed.

Flash flare outs are seen in the case of women who have just attained menopause. The reason for this is disturbances in the hormone levels of the body. There is a sharp decline in the quantity of female sex hormones though low levels of androgens continue to be the same.

Hormonal acne in teenagers is a passing phase which tends to go away once the body hormone levels stabilize. A healthy diet and personal hygiene can control the outbreaks to a great extent.

Adults who are suffering from acne can use anti-androgens or OCP to reduce their acne problems. Anti-androgens like Spironolactone lower the amount of the androgens that are being produced in the body. This restricts the amount of sebum, thus effectively controlling acne. Side effects like breast tenderness and irregular menstruation cycles are seen in those taking anti-androgens

Oral contraceptive pills are another option. They help in striking a balance between progesterone and estrogen in the body. But there is a possibility of weight gain, nausea and breast tenderness among those taking these pills. An important thing to remember is that these pills cannot be taken by pregnant women.