Hormonal Acne vs. Stress Acne
Acne isn’t one-size-fits-all. The key to clear skin is understanding why it’s happening in the first place. Once you uncover the root cause, you can support both your skin and your hormones in a way that actually works.
Common Acne Triggers
Hormonal Acne:
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Fluctuates with your menstrual cycle (often worse before your period).
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Shows up around the chin and jawline.
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Caused by shifts in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
Stress Acne:
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Pops up after periods of high stress or lack of sleep.
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Often appears on the forehead or cheeks.
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Driven by cortisol, your stress hormone, which increases oil and inflammation.
Why This Matters
Your skin tells the story of what’s happening inside. Hormonal acne points to cyclical hormone imbalances, while stress acne signals adrenal overload. Either way, it’s not just a surface issue—it’s a reflection of internal imbalance and it’s time to pay attention!
What You Can Do
✨ Track your cycle to spot hormone patterns.
✨ Support stress recovery with deep breathing or short walks.
✨ Avoid over-washing & "fighting" your breakout; it can increase inflammation and make things worse.
✨ Eat blood-sugar-balancing meals to keep insulin steady - think protein, fat & fiber at every meal.
Key Takeaway
Knowing why you’re breaking out is the first step to clearing your skin. Treating acne from the inside—by balancing hormones and calming stress—helps heal your skin naturally and sustainably.
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Medical Disclaimer
Information in this post and on this web site is provided for informational purposes only. The information is a result of practice experience and research by the author. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information on this web site for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem.