Acne (or pimples) occurs when skin pores get clogged with dead skin and oil, and bacteria build up. Then the skin becomes inflamed and can turn red or swell.
Apart from external factors and stress, hormonal factors may also increase the likelihood of acne formation.
During adolescence, hormonal changes cause the sebaceous glands to become enlarged. Sebaceous glands are small glands in the skin which produces a lubricating oily matter (sebum) into the hair follicles to lubricate the skin and hair. Sebaceous glands are highly sensitive to hormones. As a result of the enlargement of sebaceous glands, sebum production increases and the risk of skin pores getting clogged with sebum is increased as well.
Women who have the medical condition known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may have higher than normal levels of androgens. Androgens are a group of hormones that play a role in male traits and reproductive activity. They are present in both men and women, although in much lower levels in women. Women with PCOS usually complain of irregular or absent menstrual periods and may also have acne problem if androgen levels are higher than normal.
Acne can also flare up before a woman's menstrual period due to changes in hormone levels. This happens especially in women older than 30 years.
Hormonal treatment can be effective in controlling acne if your acne is confirmed to be related to high androgen levels or flares up before your menstrual period.
