The main androgen hormones are testosterone and androstenedione.High androgen levels can lead to several symptoms, including acne.

In people with ovaries, androgens are produced in the ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat cells.

In normal amounts, these hormones serve a healthy purpose.

Adult woman checks for acne in mirror

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PCOS can cause facial hair to grow.

These bumps can resemble acne.

What Causes PCOS Acne Flare-Ups?

Acne in the teenage years may or may not be an indication of PCOS.

PCOS Acne Treatment

Treating PCOS-related acne usually involvesaddressing hormonal imbalancesand taking other measures to manage PCOS.

Other acne-specific treatments may also be recommended.

Ask your healthcare provider about which formulations best address your symptoms and needs.

There are people who should not take OCP due to their medical history.

If taking this medication, contraception needs to be used to prevent pregnancy.

High body fat can also make PCOS symptoms worse.

Anti-Inflammatory Diet and Supplements

People with PCOS often have chronic low-grade inflammation.Inflammation can alsooccur with acne.

Treating the hormonal imbalance can improvePCOS symptoms, including acne.

Treatments can include medication, lifestyle changes, and skin care routine.

A Word From Verywell

If acne fromPCOSis causing you distress or discomfort, see your healthcare provider.

A medical professional can help you manage the underlying condition and treat the acne specifically.

Both of these medications carry risks.

Speak with your healthcare provider before using them.

Hormonal treatment is the typical approach to PCOS acne.

This treatment manages hormone levels which help multiple PCOS symptoms, including acne.

Acne is a possible symptom of PCOS, but not everyone with acne has PCOS, and vice versa.

If your dermatologist suspects your acne is resulting from hormones, they may recommend being tested for PCOS.

Johns Hopkins Medicine.Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

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2017;35(2):130-137.

Harvard Health Publishing.Polycystic ovarian syndrome and the skin.

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Adult acne.

National Health Services.Polycystic ovary syndrome.

Williams T, Mortada R, Porter S.Diagnosis and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome.Am Fam Physician.

2016;94(2):106-113.

Ndefo UA, Eaton A, Green MR.Polycystic ovary syndrome.P T. 2013;38(6):336-355.

2017;11:S429-S432.

2015;7(7):310. doi:10.4103/1947-2714.161246

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Acne: tips for managing.

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Stubborn acne?

Hormonal therapy may help.