Hormonal Acne vs. Normal Acne: How to Tell the Difference

Because it's the largest organ your body has and is its first line of protection, it’s no surprise that skin conditions are incredibly common and happen for many reasons. Acne easily tops the list of most common skin problems in America, with as many as 50 million people struggling with it annually. 

It also comes in different types, which may need different treatments to manage. This can become an issue if you’re dealing with hormonal acne as opposed to the common type many have, so getting the proper help to treat it comes down to knowing which is which. 

Let’s find out more about acne, the differences between the common type and the hormonal variation, and what can be done to manage it. Drs. Walter Williams, Lindsey Goddard, and the experienced medical staff at Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center can help you manage the various types of acne to keep your skin smooth and clear.

Acne basics

Your skin isn’t a single solid layer of tissue; it has multiple layers and is covered in pores and follicles for sweating and hair growth. Acne results from the clogging of pores, and when this happens, you start developing pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and other unpleasant symptoms. The clogs come from sources like dead skin cells, excess oil (sebum), and bacteria.

Teens frequently deal with acne as they develop into adulthood (common in ages 11-30), but it’s possible for anyone to have it. Acne often shows up on the face, chest, shoulders, and upper back. In adults, women experience acne more often than men, and those with a family history of the condition are more likely to struggle with it.

Causes of hormonal acne

Hormones play a role in both maturing during puberty and in developing acne, and androgen is the reason why. A hormone found in men and women, it drives oil production in your skin and enlarges oil glands; at higher levels, it can lead to clogging and acne. 

Changes in hormone levels happen all the time, and though teen acne has several factors, adults are more likely to have acne because of changes in androgen levels. Other factors can contribute to outbreaks, such as the use of skincare products that cause redness and irritation.

Differences between the two

Despite having similar symptoms, two key differences distinguish the primary types of this common skin condition:

Regular acne

The common signs of this type of acne are often surface-level, causing red, inflamed skin, pimples, and pustules. It also appears on your cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin (collectively known as your T-zone).

Hormonal acne

This type penetrates deeper into your skin, appearing as tender, deep-red cysts, and is more common on the lower part of your face (neck, cheeks, jawline, and chin).

Regardless of the type of acne with which you struggle, we have ways to help improve your complexion. 

Schedule an appointment with Drs. Visit Williams, Goddard, and the Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center today to get a solution for your acne.