Hormonal Acne

Acne is a common problem, not just in teenagers, but also in adults. In fact, a lot of researches show a devastating increase in the occurrence of acne in adults for the past few years. Even though, definite or specific cause of acne are still considered uncertain; however studies are more and more being focused on the hormonal factors as being related to acne. Whether during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, the human body is subjected to an imbalance of hormones that play their role in stimulating sebaceous glands and triggering acne.

Hormonal acne is for the most part distressing, since no over-the-counter treatments could help cure it (even the ones that were helpful to treat some of the acne during teenage years).

Hormonal Acne and Age

Hormonally inclined acne generally starts in early to mid twenties and could continue till late adulthood. This being said, however, it does not mean that teenage acne could not be hormonal as most often it is related to puberty, at 11 to 14 years of age (when androgen production is at its full). Hormonal acne is associated to androgen, the hormone that stimulates the sebaceous glands, and as a result of the overstimulation of these glands, as I mentioned before, acne occurs.

Hormonal Acne in Women

Women are on average twice as likely to have acne as men are, because they are twice as likely to be subjected to hormonal imbalance. It is no secret that women frequently suffer from acne as a common symptom of PMS (Premenstrual Symptoms). However, there is also a serious condition that is related to acne as one of its symptoms, and it is called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), which is a hormonal disease that causes irregular or lack of menstruation, infertility, hair loss and so on. Another similar condition includes Adrenal Hyperplasia.

Also, women approaching menopause (mostly 35 years and above) might find themselves having acne flare-ups, even though they never had any in their teenage years. This is because menopause also induces hormonal imbalances that help trigger acne.

Stress and Hormones

When we talk about hormonal imbalance as being related to acne, we need not forget to mention stress. During stress, our bodies produce cortisol increase the rate of processes that take place in order to help us cope with stress causing agents. Such processes include the conversion of protein to energy, and the release of glycogen; also cortisol represses cell regeneration, endocrine regulation, and digestion. Therefore, instead of focusing on the latter processes, the body under continuous stress constantly deals with high levels of cortisol, and the result is much to our dismay such symptoms like fatigue, depression, acne, etc.

Treatment for Hormonal Acne

There are treatment options that doctors prescribe for those who suffer from hormonal imbalance and thus acne; such treatments include oral contraceptives, oral corticosteroids, anti-androgens, and so on. However, one should be careful in using such treatments, because they are most likely to induce side effects, and some actually could make the condition even worse. It is therefore far more convenient and safe to choose natural ways to treat hormonal acne.

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As we all know a lot of dermatologists would tell you diet does not cause acne, but many who have tried to  exclude refined sugar, carbohydrates, Trans-fats from their diet will tell you otherwise. In fact, a healthy lifestyle is crucial in balancing hormones and successfully dealing with acne. Click here for the best proven natural way to treat acne!

Foods that Cause Acne

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There is a major controversy when it comes to foods causing acne. A lot of dermatologists and people alike will tell you that food has got nothing to do with acne; and that it’s all in the head. However, there are a whole lot of researches that would beg to differ. Food might not be the direct cause of acne, but some foods are definitely accountable in its outburst. This is because acne could result due to high blood sugar problems (like insulin resistance), inflammation, and stress. I will cover 5 basic foods (or categories of foods) that researchers have proven to have some effect on outbreaks.

1. High Glucose Foods

These foods include refined carbohydrates like grains and refined sugar (such as in candy or soda). Let me first of all point out that sugar that comes from eating fruits is different, because the fibers in them help not cause sudden increase in blood sugar levels. Why is high glucose bad for you? Because it triggers your pancreas to secrete insulin in order to neutralize the high blood sugar levels, but can sometimes overcompensate instead. This insulin causes an increase in the production of sebum (skin oil), it also causes an increase in the speed of skin cell regeneration, and in turn the facility of the skin cells to get expelled out is decreased; this means more clogging of pores.

2. Fatty Foods

When considering fatty foods, we should know that there are good and bad fats. When you eat too much bad fats, causing blood sugar problems (blood sugar levels either rise up too high, or drop down too low) that, as I explained before, increase sebum production and result in blocked pores. In addition, fat has yet another devastating effect on the body. Too much of fat decreases the rate of nutrient and oxygen flow to cells, for this reason cells will not get enough nutrients and oxygen that they really need, causing acne to worsen. Always know that Trans fat is very bad for you, and it could be found in foods like fast foods, frozen foods, cookies, cakes, donuts, butter, margarine, etc.

3. Dairy

Dairy products contain a lot of fat, which like I mentioned above worsen acne. But in addition to fats, we cannot fully digest cow milk, since we lack the enzymes. The molecules that are left not broken down are therefore treated as foreign bodies, and our immune system sends out WBCs (White Blood Cells) to fight them off, causing our immunity to weaken and in turn more inflammation results. Because of this, acne cannot be healed fast (due to weak immunity).



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Also, when considering dairy products, we should take into mind that milk contains high levels of growth hormones (as milk comes from pregnant cows); your skin glands convert these hormones into DHT (Dehydrotestosterone) hormones that causes sebum production to increase, which of course worsens acne.

4. Processed Foods

Processed foods are refined, and are therefore difficult to digest fully, this leads to allergic reactions, inflammations, and can indirectly cause acne. In addition, because processed foods are highly refined, they lose their taste; and for this reason manufacturers add flavors, chemicals, and additives to make them taste better, so you know they’re not good for you at all. And keep in mind that processed foods contain fats, which I mentioned earlier they may cause blood sugar problems and might result in acne.

5. Caffeine and Alcohol

Caffeine and alcohol do two things. First they raise stress hormone levels by triggering Adrenaline glands to secrete them, increasing stress levels. Stress can not only be linked to acne, but also to almost every other disease.

The second thing that caffeine and alcohol do is disturb sleep. They are both known to prevent a person from going into deep sleep, which is crucial for the body to do physical restoration and detoxification.


Finally, when we talk about food, we must also consider food allergies (food intolerance and sensitivity). There are some foods that we eat, but could be allergic to without knowing. Food allergies cause your immune system to respond and cause inflammation, and can result in acne.

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Types Of Acne

Acne Development


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Sebaceous glands (oil glands) in our skin that connect the hair follicles or pores are responsible for producing sebum (oily substance that lubricates the skin). While sebum is being distributed unto the surface of the skin, dead cells are getting driven out; however, if too much sebum is being produced some of the pores get blocked, preventing the dead skin cells from leaving these pores. To a further complication, as bacteria get built-up the result is acne. I will elaborate more on the latter in the paragraphs to come.

Unfortunately, we do not know what the exact cause of acne is, but some elements that are thought to have an effect in its development include: heredity, oily skin or hair, hormonal imbalances (especially in women during menstruation and sometimes pregnancy), stress, oily and highly chemical cosmetics, etc.

Types of Acne

1. Acne Vulgaris

Acne Vulgaris is considered to be the most common type of acne. Acne Vulgaris includes mild to moderate (blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules) to severe (nodules and cysts) lesions.

Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris

- Blackheads (open comedo): they are the result of partially clogged pores. The black color that appears is not because of trapped dirt, it’s the reaction of Sebum and Melanin (skin pigments) with oxygen.

- Whiteheads (closed comedo): they are the result of the complete blockage of the pores. Once the partial blockage becomes complete the excess Sebum cannot get out at all, and together with bacteria called “Proprionibacterium Acnes” or “P. Acnes” that are normally present on the skin get trapped in the pores; an enzyme is produced and causes the Sebum to break down into “free fatty acids”, which causes irritation, swelling, redness, and pus formation that we call whiteheads.

- Papules: they are inflamed, red, and tender bumps that do not have heads. It’s important not to squeeze or press a papule to get rid of it, because as a result scarring may occur.

- Pustules: they are inflamed red circles with a whitish or yellowish center. Again we should not mess with a pustule, since possible scarring is likely.

Severe Acne Vulgaris

- Nodules: contrary to the aforementioned lesions, nodules are much larger, more painful, and last longer (it might take months to heal). Nodules are characterized as hard bumps under the skin. We must absolutely resist the temptation to squeeze nodules, because pressing them causes severe trauma to the skin, causing the lesion to take an even longer time to heal, and scar.

- Cysts: they are somewhat similar in appearance to nodules, but are pus-filled and a bit bigger (5mm in diameter or more). Do not squeeze cysts as this causes deeper infection and therefore a more painful inflammation will result, and will take longer to heal.

2. Acne Rosacea

This type of acne is very similar to Acne Vulgaris, which makes it confusing for us to distinguish them from one another. It affects mostly women (but when found in men it’s usually more severe) and those aged 30 and above. It appears as red rashes on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin. People with Acne Rosacea end up having pimples, bumps, and skin blemishes, but blackheads are unlikely with this type of acne. It can also cause Rhinophyma (bulbous nose) if not treated.

3. Acne Conglobata

This is considered to be the most severe type of acne, and it is more common in males. It appears as multiple large lesions, which seem to be interconnected across the face (found also on the back, chest, upper arms, and thighs); also a large number of blackheads are common with this type of acne. Acne Conglobata causes harmful damage to the skin along with extreme scarring.

4. Acne Fulminans

This type of acne is usually found in young men. It is associated with severe cysts and ulcer-like acne. It could cause extreme and disfiguring scars.

5. Gram-Negative Folliculitis

This type of acne is considered to be a bacterial infection associated with pustules and cysts, believed to be the result of complications from longtime antibiotic treatment for Acne Vulgaris.

6. Pyoderma Faciale (or Rosacea Fulminans)

This type of acne is usually found in females (between the ages of 20 to 40), and is associated to large painful nodules, and pustules that may leave scars. Also it may take place on the skin of a woman who has never had an acne condition before.

For information on how to cure acne, please check this link.

Acne Diet Tips

There are a lot of varied views regarding acne, as some think it’s not related to the foods we eat, and others believe that diet actually matters.

While people debate over the issue, I believe we can only play it safe and watch out for what we eat and drink, because as certain foods may not be the direct cause of acne, they might have a role in it after all. In the next few paragraphs, I want to suggest to you certain foods which are beneficial in managing the outbreak of acne.

After doing some research, I came across very interesting findings, which I believe are going to be very helpful for you. Remember: your acne is stubborn, so in order to defeat it you must be persistent and patient (you don’t need all the excess stress!)

Here are the top tips you really need when it comes to acne:

1. Vitamins and Selenium

- First and foremost, you need to increase the consumption of more fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts. I know you have probably read about this probably everywhere, but the truth is that it’s true! Vegetables and fruits contain vitamins, which your body needs. (the more natural, the better!) And what about nuts and seeds? Brazil nuts contain Selenium, and pumpkin seeds contain Zinc, all of which can help improve your acne condition. Here’s a fact I found about Brazil nuts: they are a good source of vitamins and minerals, and like I mentioned they are the richest dietary Selenium source. Research indicates that Selenium may be related to the prevention of cancer, and when combined with vitamins A and E they help reduce acne. Certain types of seafood (like tuna and cod) also contain some amounts of Selenium, in addition to freshly squeezed orange juice, onions, garlic, wheat bran, whole grains, and mushrooms. The normal range of Selenium for humans is noted to be 13-20 milligrams.

2. Water Is the Best

- Another important tip, which everybody won’t forget to mention is drinking a lot of water, and remember there is no substitute for water! Water hydrates your skin, which in turn prevents your pores from being blocked. And may I mention that water has a lot of other health benefits as well? So you can’t but profit from it!

3. No More Sugar

- Lessen and then gradually diminish the intake of sugar, and instead use honey (all natural of course). Do not consume sodas, chocolate, candy, juices (that are fired up with sugar) and so forth. Sugar causes high levels of blood sugar, and to balance things up your body is triggered to excrete hormones (like insulin), which will cause your skin to generate more Sebum (skin oil) and this only means more acne.


- When it comes to sugar, you can’t escape the question of why some people who binge on a lot of sugar have great skin. I read an interesting research, which links this fact to a weak functioning of the liver. Liver is responsible for cleansing the hormones triggered by the high blood sugar levels, after their “role in balancing” is finished. Therefore, as an acne sufferer what you need to worry about is eating foods that can help make your liver to function more strongly. These include oils (mostly olive oil), Sulfur foods like broccoli, cabbage, seeds and nuts, freshly squeezed lemon, and while attempting to reduce sugar intake use honey (as previously mentioned).

4. No Caffeine

- Don’t drink caffeinated drinks like sodas, coffee, tea, etc. Caffeine increases your stress hormone levels, and causes more acne breakouts.

5. Reduce Stress

- And speaking of stress hormones, you need to do something to reduce all your extra stress. Mostly by exercising and partly by relaxing. Exercising helps decrease stress levels, which will in turn mean less production of the male type hormones (such as DHEA and DHT) that are part causes of acne outburst.


- You can also take 20-30 minutes of outside walks (out in the fresh air) everyday, because not only will it help reduce stress, but also increase the oxygen flow to your skin.

A last advice from one acne sufferer to another, do not use harsh chemical products on your skin, because they make the condition worse, without even curing it. Instead go for the natural!.

Adult and Still Suffering From Acne?

Although there are many adults who suffer from what we call “adult acne”, acne is often regarded as a major problem in teenagers. Adults in their twenties and beyond can still experience acne, and the negative effects of stress adds to the strain of having it pop up in their face. However whether you're an adult or a teenager, acne is as much agonizing both physically and emotionally.

There are a lot of causes for acne, but significantly your lifestyle is what matters more. Studies show that mental stress can be a major cause in developing acne for adults. Moreover, women are likely to suffer from it because they are more exposed to stress which they acquire throughout their daily lifestyle. They are also prone to hormonal imbalances, especially at times when they have their monthly menstruation and during pregnancy.

The environment is another factor in developing adult acne. If your surroundings are always dirty/polluted, most likely all the dust will be carried through the wind and eventually land on your face. If left unwashed, these dust and dirt can clog up your pores and infect them making the pores inflamed.

Therefore, just like teen acne, the best that you can avail of is maintaining proper skin care and a healthy personal hygiene (and no, this doesn't mean that you don't wash your face a lot, but sometimes washing your face too much can make your acne problem even worse!). When you wash your face use a mild soap (fragrance/scent free). 

Also you can watch out for your diet. Drink enough water (at least 8 glasses/day) and exclude from your meal some oily foods (olive oil is a better choice for you). Eat more fruits and vegetables.Take enough sleep and rest. It will relax your skin pores and eventually help prevent acne from developing. And the magic word that everyone keeps repeating: exercise.

 Avoid drinking liquor, alcohol-based beverages and smoking. It will just make your face riddled with acne.  

Finally, there are alot of drugs out there that claim to be the best in treating your acne, and if  you're an acne-victim you have probably tried a dozen of them; or have been from one dermatologist to another wasting time, energy, and money. And still you've found yourself "bankrupt" not just money-wise, but also solution-wise. I have been there!And I know that no acne treatment has ever given me the skin that is right for me or maybe they have temporarily, but the acne has come back with a grudge. Believe me if I say there is another and a better way to treat your acne, and all it takes is committing to a system that treats you right.

So if you are interested in knowing more about how to overcome your acne and find out how people like you have cured it WITHOUT DRUGS, Click Here!