Hormonal Breakouts

Hormonal changes are one of the biggest triggers for acne in adults. Shifts in hormones can mincrease oil (sebum) production, clog pores, and create the ideal environment for breakouts. These often appear as painful, deep pimples around the jawline, chin, and lower face. At DermLab, our Dermatologists specialise in diagnosing and treating hormonal acne, helping you regain clear skin and prevent long-term scarring.

Signs of Hormonal Acne

  • Painful, cystic pimples along the chin, jawline, and lower cheeks

  • Breakouts that flare cyclically (e.g., before menstruation)

  • Deep, red, tender spots rather than blackheads or whiteheads

  • Persistence into adulthood, even without teenage acne history

Common Triggers

  • Menstrual cycle changes — many women notice flare-ups before periods

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — higher androgen levels increase acne risk

  • Pregnancy and postpartum — hormonal shifts can trigger new breakouts

  • Perimenopause — hormonal fluctuations can reactivate acne later in life

  • Stress — increases cortisol, which worsens oil production

  • Anabolic steroid use — common in some athletes and gym users, can trigger severe acne

Treatment at DermLab

  • Topical therapies — prescription creams and gels to reduce inflammation and unblock pores

  • Oral medications — including hormonal treatments such as oral contraceptives or spironolactone (for women), antibiotics, or isotretinoin for resistant cases

  • Lifestyle and skincare advice —personalised routines to reduce flare-ups

  • Long-term prevention — strategies to control cycles of breakouts and protect skin health

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Hormonal acne typically affects the jawline and chin, flares with cycles or stress, and presents as painful cystic spots.

  • Diet alone isn’t usually the cause, but high glycaemic foods and dairy may worsen hormonal breakouts in some people.

  • Some improve with age or hormonal stabilisation, but persistent cases often need Dermatologist-led treatment.

Blurred silhouette of a person standing in front of an abstract artwork or mural with vertical lines.
A pattern of white dots arranged in concentric circles of varying sizes on a black background.

Request a Consultation

We know skin, and want you to be comfortable in yours. Let’s discuss your concerns and how to reclaim health and confidence.