Overproduction of testosterone may lead to excessive sebum production, which, in turn, may increase the risk of inflamed sebaceous glands. This can trigger an acne outbreak. Many people experience frequent acne breakouts during puberty when testosterone levels start to rise.

Can low testosterone cause acne?

Like testosterone, steroid medications increase the activity of sebaceous glands in the skin, contributing to acne. Low testosterone does not usually cause acne, but treating low testosterone by taking testosterone may cause acne as a side-effect.

Where does testosterone cause acne?

Testosterone belongs to a class of male sex hormones called androgens, which can trigger acne by over-stimulating oil glands. They can also change the skin cells that line hair follicles, making them sticky and more likely to clog pores.