Many of the changes in your skin that start at puberty are due to sebaceous glands, which produce an oily substance called sebum. Hormonal fluctuations, stress and bacterial overgrowth contribute to increased sebum production.

Throughout the menstrual cycle, oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone fluctuate. For our skin to glow, and, of course, stay pimple-free, we require a specific ratio of hormones that shift throughout the month.

Two to seven days before menstruation, oestrogen sharply declines, and progesterone rises – if you experience breakouts in this period, it’s essential to correct the progesterone/oestrogen ratio.

Increased sensitivity to or a raised level of testosterone – typically seen in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome and blood sugar imbalances – is another instigator of hormonal acne. Testosterone increases sebum, which gets trapped in the pores and leads to breakouts and oily skin.

Diet, lifestyle changes, additional supplements and good skin hygiene may assist in bringing hormones back into balance, heal your skin and reduce your breakouts. e your breakouts.