Hormonal Skin Issues: Causes and Solutions
Let’s talk about hormones—those tiny chemical messengers that somehow manage to hijack our moods, our sleep, and yep...our skin. Whether you're dealing with stubborn breakouts, surprise pigmentation, or skin that's suddenly dry and oily (because why not both?), hormones may be to blame. The good news? You can calm the chaos with the right mix of treatments, targeted skincare, and a little expert support (hi, that’s me).
Here’s what’s going on beneath the surface—and what to do about it.
Common Hormonal Skin Issues and What They Look Like
Hormonal Acne
Signs: Breakouts that cluster around the jawline, chin, or neck—especially around your period or during times of stress. These breakouts often feel deep, tender, and cystic.
Why it happens: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone ramp up oil production, which can clog pores and lead to inflammation.
What helps:
In-studio: The SPF Detox + Deep Clean Facial at About Face Skin Co is a game-changer for clearing out congestion and calming inflammation—especially helpful in those breakout-prone summer months.
Home care:
Face Reality’s Acne Med (5% or 10%): A benzoyl peroxide treatment that targets acne-causing bacteria without stripping your skin.
Dermalogica's Clear Start Breakout Clearing Booster: Great for spot-treating those hormonal flare-ups.
Adipeau Active Face Cream: Supports skin regeneration and reduces post-acne inflammation while building up healthy skin structure.
Perimenopausal or Menopausal Skin
Signs: Dryness, dullness, loss of elasticity, sudden sensitivity, and the fun surprise of adult acne making a return cameo.
Why it happens: Estrogen declines during perimenopause and menopause, affecting collagen production, hydration, and oil regulation.
What helps:
In-studio: The NeurotriS Microcurrent Collagen Boost Facial is ideal for re-energizing aging skin, stimulating collagen, and giving that “lifted” look without downtime.
Home care:
Adipeau Active Face Cream: Targets volume loss and helps reinforce skin resilience.
Dermalogica’s Phyto-Nature Firming Serum: A dual-phase serum that firms, plumps, and smooths hormonally aging skin.
Face Reality Hydrabalance: Lightweight but powerful hydration for skin that's feeling fragile or reactive.
Melasma and Hyperpigmentation
Signs: Irregular brown patches, usually on the cheeks, upper lip, or forehead. Often worse with sun exposure or heat.
Why it happens: Estrogen increases melanin sensitivity, which can lead to pigment overproduction—especially during pregnancy or while taking birth control.
What helps:
In-studio: The Vitamin C Brightening Facial at About Face Skin Co is loaded with antioxidants to even skin tone and boost radiance. Pair that with consistent sun protection and you’re already winning.
Home care:
Dermalogica PowerBright Dark Spot Serum: A solid choice for fading discoloration without irritation.
Face Reality’s Brighten-C Serum: Targets both pigment and inflammation, and plays nice with acne-prone skin.
SPF. Always. (Seriously, this should be your BFF.) Try Dermalogica’s Prisma Protect SPF 30 for lightweight daily protection.
Your Personalized Skin Strategy
Hormonal skin shifts aren’t just annoying—they’re persistent. That’s why I focus on long-term care rather than quick fixes. At About Face Skin Co, every treatment is customized, and I’ll help you build a routine that actually works with your skin, your life, and yes—even your existing product stash. (I’m not here to sell you 10 new products if you’ve already got a great routine. Promise.)
If your skin feels like it's being run by an emotional teenager with a megaphone, don’t go it alone. Let’s decode what your skin is trying to tell you—and get you on a path to balance and glow.
Book your next skin treatment here or text me to pop in for a quick retail consult. Whether we are dissecting what is going on with your skin or we just need to fine-tune your routine, I’ve got you.
