For women, hormonal changes relating to pregnancy or the menstrual cycle can also trigger acne. Falling estrogen levels may increase the risk of acne around menopause. The role of progesterone remains unclear. Conditions that affect hormone levels, for example polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can trigger acne.

What is hormonal gynecological acne?

Hormonal acne is when breakouts form in adulthood that could range from blackheads and whiteheads to painful cysts. Hormonal acne is linked to the overproduction of sebum (an oily substance in skin glands), which clogs pores, leading to pimples.

What type of hormone imbalance causes acne?

As your estrogen levels decrease, your balance of androgens to estrogenic hormones can cause your body to create more sebum. If you're acne prone, this can lead to everything from a few occasional pimples to severe and regular acne outbreaks.