What causes hormonal acne?
Hormonal acne is often triggered by fluctuations in hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and androgens. These shifts can increase oil production, clog pores, and lead to inflammation especially around your period, during stress, or through major life phases like menopause.How is the gut involved?
Your gut microbiome plays a surprising role in hormone balance. A healthy gut helps:- Process and eliminate excess hormones
- Reduce inflammation, a key driver of acne
- Support nutrient absorption (like zinc and vitamin A, both crucial for skin)
- Regulate stress responses through the gut-brain axis
Signs your acne may be linked to gut health
- Bloating or irregular digestion
- Acne flares around your period
- Skin issues that don’t respond to topical treatments
- History of antibiotic use or food sensitivities
Natural ways to support your skin and hormones
- Eat fibre-rich, whole foods to feed good gut bacteria
- Avoid excess sugar and dairy, which can spike inflammation
- Manage stress with sleep, movement, or mindfulness
- Include fermented foods like yogurt or sauerkraut
- Stay hydrated and support regular digestion