Have PCOS? Know About Acne & Other Relevant Skin Symptoms

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a hormonal disorder that affects women’s fertility by enlarging the ovaries and forming small cysts on their surface.

Hormones regulate the body’s organs, including the skin, and even a slight imbalance can cause significant issues. You might experience severe side effects like acne, dandruff, hair loss, and other skin problems due to PCOS.

Research indicates that the prevalence of PCOS is increasing. You can manage it by taking vitamin supplements and improving your diet.

Do you have PCOS? Here’s everything you need to know about acne and other skin symptoms!

The PCOS and Acne Connection

PCOS and acne have a strong connection. When the ovaries enlarge, they produce high levels of androgen and dehydroepiandrosterone. These hormones can cause oil to block your pores, trapping dead skin cells inside and worsening the condition.

This hormonal activity can lead to bacterial growth in the skin cells, collectively causing acne on the face.

Common Types of PCOS Acne

There are mainly two types of acne caused by PCOS: Cystic acne and Hormonal acne. These types differ from each other and can be confusing to identify.

Here’s how you can distinguish them:

• Cystic acne consists of inflamed, painful cysts that form in the skin’s inner layer and can leave long-term scars if not treated properly.
• Hormonal acne appears on the skin’s upper layer, mostly on the lower face, like the chin, cheeks, and jawline.

PCOS Acne vs. Regular Acne: How To Know?

Most women have experienced acne at least once in their lives. It can occur at any age for various reasons. Recognizing the type of acne is crucial to treat it effectively. PCOS acne differs from regular acne in several ways.

So, what does PCOS acne look like? You can identify it by its inflamed and red appearance, lying deep in your skin. It typically forms on the lower face, such as the lower cheeks, chin, or jawline. PCOS acne is also known as hormonal acne and is more severe than regular acne.

Regular acne usually occurs at the onset of the menstrual cycle due to sudden hormonal changes. These are pale-yellow in color and form on the forehead, often as pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, and cysts.

Other PCOS Skin Symptoms You Must Be Aware Of!

Have PCOS? Here’s everything you need to know about acne and other skin symptoms. PCOS can lead to various issues, including acne and other skin problems in females. While these symptoms are often just the tip of the iceberg, they can significantly impact overall well-being.

1) Acanthosis Nigricans

PCOS, caused by hormonal imbalance, can result in black-brown skin patches known as acanthosis nigricans. While not harmful, they indicate PCOS. Acanthosis nigricans can be treated with diabetes medications and topical medicines.

2) Dandruff

PCOS can lead to increased dandruff in females due to elevated androgen levels. Over-the-counter shampoos are available to treat dandruff caused by PCOS. How PCOS affects skin can vary from person to person.

3) Hair Thinning or Hair Loss

Imbalanced hormones can lead to hair thinning and loss. PCOS weakens the immune system, damaging hair roots and the scalp. Hair may also become nutrient-deficient due to hormonal imbalances, worsening the condition.

4) Hirsutism

Hirsutism refers to irregular hair growth on various parts of the body like the neck, chest, back, or face. Elevated testosterone levels are a major cause of hirsutism. Facial hair is the most common skin symptom of PCOS in females, which can be treated with spironolactone.

5) Oily Skin

Oily skin is a common symptom faced by many females experiencing hormonal imbalances. PCOS can lead to excessive sebum release on the face, making the skin appear greasy and oily. Using cleansers and oil-free products can improve skin texture.

Effective PCOS Acne Treatment You Can Try

There are various ways to treat acne, including vitamin intake, medication, and an anti-acne diet for PCOS. While it may be daunting, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for the best treatment options. Here are some effective approaches for managing PCOS.

Spironolactone

Spironolactone is highly effective for treating acne caused by PCOS. Initially used for treating edema and high blood pressure, it has been found to have positive effects on acne.

Topical Acne Medications

Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are excellent topical acne medications. They target clogged pores, opening them to remove dust and waste materials, thereby clearing the skin.

Vitamins

Various vitamin supplements help treat PCOS acne, including Vitamins A, C, D, and E. Taking these vitamins, along with enhancing skin care quality, has proven effective in eliminating acne and other skin problems.

Conclusion

Have PCOS? Here’s everything you need to know about acne and other skin symptoms. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a challenging condition for women as it affects physical appearance alongside hormonal imbalance.

Severe acne, facial hair, dark patches, and uncontrolled dandruff are major problems caused by PCOS. You can treat it effectively with various vitamins, topical acne medications, and spironolactone. Consulting a gynecologist for proper treatment is recommended.