Best Natural Cures for Hormonal Acne

Written by Institute for Natural Medicine Staff

Medically Reviewed by Signe Poquette, ND

Published February 12, 2025
Last Updated July 31, 2025

Acne is often called a disease of Western civilization, largely due to the standard U.S. diet and high-stress lifestyles. Food and lifestyle undoubtedly influence skin, while hormones—less within our control—also contribute. These chemical messengers regulate growth, metabolism, mood, and sleep. With more than 50 different hormones at work, even slight imbalances can have a big impact on skin.¹

Acne often flares during adolescence, a time of surging hormones. But hormonal breakouts also happen later in life. Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause are catalysts for some women.

What causes hormonal breakouts?

It may seem obvious—hormonal fluctuations cause hormonal acne. But the reality is more complex. Genetics, bacteria, inflammation, and lifestyle play a part.

The role of genetics

If your parents or close relatives struggled with adult acne, you might be more prone to outbreaks too. Genetics influence everything from the size and function of oil glands to hormone levels and immune responses. Some people inherit an overactive immune response to acne triggers, like bacteria.¹

Bacteria and inflammation

Cutibacterium acnes (previously Proprionibacterium acnes) bacteria live on the skin, particularly in oily areas. People with acne tend to have higher levels of C. acnes, which can trigger inflammation.¹^,²

Inflammation, the body’s natural defense against bacterial overgrowth, isn’t intrinsically problematic. However, when inflammation persists over time or becomes chronic, it can fuel the cycle of acne and lead to skin damage.¹

Other acne triggers

Certain lifestyle and environmental factors don’t directly cause hormonal acne but can make it worse. These include¹:

Diet
UV radiation exposure
Stress
Obesity
Smoking
Sleep disorders
Cosmetics
Medications
High-glycemic foods
Dairy
Excessive skin washing
Possible resistance to C. acnes²
Endocrine disorders (such as PCOS, diabetes, and hypothyroidism)

Hormonal acne in women

Woman with acne looks at reflection in mirror

Ever noticed that stress seems to trigger those pesky breakouts? That’s because it sparks the release of androgens, a group of male sex hormones (including testosterone). Androgens stimulate oil production, which can lead to clogged pores and acne.

Hormonal acne typically affects more women than men, especially during times when androgen levels rise, and estrogen levels decrease or fluctuate. During menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause, women may notice acne worsen.¹

In addition to testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (SDHEA, aka DHEA–S) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) have also been shown to enlarge oil glands and increase oil production. Estrogen does the opposite, limiting oil gland growth, curbing oil production, and reducing the amount of androgen hormones released. The estrogen–androgen balance has a significant effect on hormonal acne. Although previous research showed that hormonal acne tends to crop up around the chin and mouth, more recent research shows it can appear on other parts of the face and back.¹

How is hormonal acne typically treated?

Conventional treatments include topicals (retinoids, topical antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, or azelaic acid) and systemic treatments (oral antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or isotretinoin). Commonly prescribed medications block androgen receptors, slow androgen production, or kill bacteria. However, many of these treatments come with side effects. Dryness and discomfort are common with retinol creams, while androgen blockers may cause menstrual changes, breast tenderness, headache, nausea, and fluid retention.¹

Can you treat hormonal breakouts naturally?

Antioxidants help counter oxidative stress, which is strongly associated with acne. People with acne tend to have low levels of antioxidants (such as vitamins A, E, zinc, and selenium).²

Combining vitamin E and selenium has proven beneficial in reducing acne symptoms, while taking vitamin C and zinc together can improve antibiotic efficacy, especially against drug-resistant strains of C. acnes. Zinc (either alone or in combination with other therapies) reduces inflammation and androgen levels, diminishing oil production and alleviating hormonal acne symptoms.²

Vitamin D and acne prevention

Vitamin D helps prevent acne lesions, reduces oil production, keeps pores clear, and controls bacterial growth. In a study involving 100 acne patients, those who received vitamin D treatment reported skin improvements and reduced inflammation. Another study of 160 people with acne revealed that nearly half had low vitamin D levels. When participants supplemented with 1,000 IU of vitamin D daily for two months, they saw a significant reduction in acne-related inflammation.²

Herbal supplements for hormonal acne

Certain herbs help balance hormones and may improve hormonal acne. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) and saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) are particularly beneficial.²

Bittersweet (Solanum dulcamara) and “old man’s beard” (Usnea barbata) are known for their antimicrobial properties. Eucommia ulmoides, commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, inhibits C. acnes and reduces inflammation. Similarly, amla, a staple in Ayurvedic medicine, protects skin cells from free radical damage.²

Several plant extracts also show promise in managing hormonal acne.

Berberine, derived mainly from Berberis vulgaris L., has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps prevent excessive testosterone production and reduces oil secretion.²
Curcumin, the active compound in Curcuma longa L., has been used in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine for centuries. Its antibacterial and antioxidant effects make it effective in limiting C. acnes overgrowth.²
Quercetin, a plant nutrient found in fruits, vegetables, and Chinese herbal medicine, has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Research suggests it not only reduces inflammation but also strengthens the immune system, which may help the body manage C. acnes more effectively.³
Baicalin, extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis, is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. Studies confirm its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate acne symptoms.³
Schisandrin, found in Schisandra chinensis, has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.³

Essential oils

Tea tree essential oil bottle with dropper next to herb

Essential oils with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties have shown promise in hormonal acne treatment. Research highlights four potent essential oils for controlling C. acnes²:

Citronella oil
Oregano oil
Thyme oil
Basil oil

Tea tree oil demonstrated moderate effectiveness, while rosemary and lavender oils may help counter oxidative stress.²

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that can be too potent to apply directly to the skin. To ensure safe use, they should always be diluted in a carrier oil—such as coconut, jojoba, or almond oil—before application. Dilution reduces the risk of irritation, allergic reactions, and skin sensitivity. Always conduct a patch test before widespread use, and consult a professional for guidance, especially if you have sensitive skin or underlying conditions.

Lifestyle and dietary changes for healthier skin

Cauliflower, broccoli, carrot, squash, corn, beans, tomatoes, and lemon on table

Smoking, chronic stress, and consistently poor sleep can all affect hormone balance and skin health. Although there are many potential root causes of acne, keeping a regular skincare routine can help keep breakouts in check:

Keep skin clean. Wash your face gently twice a day or after sweating to remove excess sebum. Use a gentle cleanser and avoid washcloths and sponges, which can irritate skin.
Choose the right products. Check labels for terms like “gentle” and “alcohol free.” Avoid astringents, toners, and exfoliants, which can dry out and irritate skin, worsening acne.
Try not to touch. Tempting as it may be, touching your face frequently can cause acne to flare. Avoid picking, popping, and squeezing to clear breakouts faster and reduce scarring and dark spots.⁴

Western diets tend to be laden with omega–6 fatty acids and not enough omega–3s. Fatty acid imbalances and overconsumption of dairy products, refined carbs, and saturated fats can contribute to inflammation and acne. The combination of high dairy product consumption and high glycemic index foods, in particular, affects hormones involved in acne development. This way of eating also disturbs the gut microbiome, which is directly tied to skin health.⁴

Avoiding certain foods and beverages may help mitigate hormonal acne:⁴

Alcohol
Dairy
Chocolate and sweets
Salty foods
Gluten
Corn
Soft drinks

Achieving optimal hormone balance starts with a nourishing diet. Incorporating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, and cabbage can help clear excess hormones,⁵ while lean proteins such as beans, chicken, fish, and turkey provide essential building blocks for hormone production.⁶ These nutrient-dense foods provide a foundation for clearer skin and long-term hormonal health.

Footnotes

1
Bagatin E, Freitas THP de, Rivitti-Machado MC, et al. Adult female acne: a guide to clinical practice. An Bras Dermatol. 2019;94(1):62-75. doi:10.1590/abd1806-4841.20198203
2
Bungau AF, Radu AF, Bungau SG, Vesa CM, Tit DM, Endres LM. Oxidative stress and metabolic syndrome in acne vulgaris: pathogenetic connections and potential role of dietary supplements and phytochemicals. Biomed Pharmacother. 2023;164:115003. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115003
3
Zhao D, Wang Y, Wu S, et al. Research progress on the role of macrophages in acne and regulation by natural plant products. Front Immunol. 2024;15:1383263. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2024.1383263
4
Ryguła I, Pikiewicz W, Kaminiów K. Impact of diet and nutrition in patients with acne vulgaris. Nutrients. 2024;16(10):1476. doi:10.3390/nu16101476
5
Manchali S, Murthy K, Patil BS. Crucial facts about health benefits of popular cruciferous vegetables. J Funct. Foods. 2012;4:94-106. doi:10.1016/j.jff.2011.08.004
6
Ekberg NR, Catrina SB, Spégel P. A protein-rich meal provides beneficial glycemic and hormonal responses as compared to meals enriched in carbohydrate, fat or fiber, in individuals with or without type-2 diabetes. Front Nutr. 2024 Jul 4;11:1395745. doi:10.3389/fnut.2024.1395745

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Best Natural Cures for Hormonal Acne

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