Hormonal acne affects nearly 80% of people at some point in their lives, with Americans spending $100 million annually on over-the-counter acne products. This guide aims to help you understand hormonal acne, identify its causes, test for it, and discover functional medicine treatments for this common skin condition.
What is Hormonal Acne? Hormonal acne affects both men and women, but is more prevalent in women, especially during pregnancy, menopause, and in certain hormonal conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Hormonal acne is characterized by whiteheads, blackheads, and cysts, typically located on the chin and jawline.
Causes of Hormonal Acne Hormonal acne is triggered by hormones like DHEA, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that increase sebum production in the skin. Overproduction of sebum can clog pores and lead to acne. Factors such as stress, medical conditions, puberty, and certain medications can increase androgen levels, contributing to hormonal acne.
Functional Medicine Tests for Hormonal Acne To better understand the root causes of hormonal acne, functional medicine practitioners use a variety of tests, including:
DUTCH Complete Test (Urine): Evaluates hormone metabolism, including DHEA, testosterone, and DHT, as well as other hormones like estradiol, estrone, and progesterone.
Hormone Testing (Blood): Tests for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin, which can impact androgen levels.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test: Measures SHBG levels, which can influence testosterone availability.
Stool Testing: Assesses the balance of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, which can impact estrogen metabolism.
Cortisol Testing: Monitors cortisol levels throughout the day, which can influence hormonal acne.
Conventional and Natural Treatments for Hormonal Acne Conventional treatments for hormonal acne include hormonal birth control and spironolactone, while functional medicine practitioners also recommend natural treatments such as:
Hormonal Acne Diet: A low-inflammatory diet like the Mediterranean Diet can help reduce acne.
Eliminating Acne Triggering Foods: Removing foods like cow's milk and sugar may help improve acne.
Supplements and Herbs: Including zinc, myo-inositol, calcium-D-glucarate, and adaptogens like ashwagandha, astragalus, and Asian ginseng can help balance hormones and reduce acne.
It's important to, understanding hormonal acne, its causes, and the available tests is essential in addressing this bothersome condition. By employing functional medicine approaches, individuals can explore both conventional and natural treatments to find relief from hormonal acne.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Okojie or learn more about our acne services. We can't wait to help you look and feel your best! Call 360-287-4402
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