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Using the best skincare products from clean beauty brands and still breaking out consistently? If your skin feels like it's turned against you despite a well-curated, consistent skincare routine using natural products for acne, it may be time to shift your focus inward, specifically toward your hormones.
Testosterone—yes, even in women—might be the hidden culprit behind those stubborn, painful breakouts. And if you're treating surface symptoms without addressing the root, you'll be stuck in the cycle.
Meet your skin's hormonal saboteur
While testosterone is typically labeled a "male hormone," it's present in everyone. Women produce smaller amounts in their ovaries and adrenal glands. But when that delicate balance tips even slightly, it can send your oil glands into hyper overdrive, triggering a surge in sebum production. The unfortunate result? Clogged pores, inflammation that sticks around for days, and acne that refuses to leave quietly.
Excess testosterone is especially tied to deep, cystic breakouts along the jawline, chin, and neck.
The supplement trap no one warns you about
Certain nutrients like B12, zinc, and even vitamin D can backfire if taken in excess.
Many "wellness" supplements marketed for skin or energy are actually super-dosed far beyond what your body needs daily. These megadoses can disrupt your hormonal balance, sometimes raising testosterone levels unintentionally.
Before you overhaul your skincare shelf again, take a closer look at your supplement labels. Your clean beauty products and natural products for skin likely aren’t the issue—your multivitamin might be.
PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects up to 1 in 10 women and is one of the most common causes of elevated testosterone. If you're dealing with irregular periods, excess hair growth, mood swings, and, yes, chronic breakouts, it's worth bringing this up with your doctor.
PCOS-related acne is often hormonal, painful, and unresponsive to typical topical treatments. That doesn't mean you're powerless. Hormone-regulating options like birth control, alongside a skincare routine tailored for inflammation and oil control, can help.
Look for calming, balancing natural products for acne, like a skin toning lotion or a gentle, oily skin face wash from top cosmetic brands with salicylic acid. Avoid over-stripping your skin, which can make things worse.
What to do now for clearer skin
Dermatologists recommend keeping track of your cycle and recording new skin reactions. Consider reducing your intake of new vitamins, supplements, or protein powders if you've observed an increase in inflammation or congestion.
And remember: acne that lingers after your teenage years isn't just cosmetic. It could be your body trying to tell you something.