Androgen Levels and Acne: Natural Ways to Balance Your Hormones

If you’ve ever noticed breakouts that seem resistant to every cleanser, scrub, or spot treatment, hormones may be to blame — specifically, androgens. These “male hormones,” including testosterone and DHT, are present in everyone (men and women alike). But when levels rise too high, they can trigger acne that’s stubborn and hard to control.

Let’s explore how androgens fuel acne, the natural steps you can take to restore balance, and why testing your hormones is the smartest first move.

What Are Androgens and How Do They Affect Acne?

Androgens are sex hormones that regulate many processes in the body, from muscle growth to reproductive function. When it comes to skin, they play a major role in oil production:

• Elevated androgen levels increase sebum (oil) output in the skin.

• Excess oil mixes with dead skin cells, clogging pores.

• This creates the perfect environment for bacteria and inflammation — leading to acne.

That’s why conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or simple hormonal fluctuations often show up as jawline, chin, and back acne【Cleveland Clinic†source】.

Signs Your Acne Might Be Androgen-Driven

• Deep, painful cysts along the jawline or chin.

• Breakouts that flare before your period.

• Oily skin that persists despite skincare routines.

• Acne that worsens with stress, weight gain, or certain diets.

If this sounds familiar, balancing androgens naturally may help.

Natural Ways to Balance Androgens

Diet & Blood Sugar Control

• Follow a low-glycemic diet (whole grains, legumes, vegetables). Spikes in blood sugar raise insulin, which stimulates more androgen activity【American Academy of Dermatology: Diet & Acne†source】.

• Limit refined carbs and sugary foods that drive insulin resistance.

• Some women with PCOS see improvements by moderating dairy intake.

Exercise & Weight Management

• Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity, which can lower excess androgen activity.

• Even modest weight loss (if overweight) has been shown to improve hormone balance and acne.

Stress Management

• Chronic stress raises cortisol, which disrupts hormonal pathways and can amplify androgen effects.

• Practices like yoga, meditation, or even a 20-minute walk daily can help regulate both cortisol and androgens.

Key Nutrients & Herbal Supports

• Zinc: Supports hormone regulation and reduces oil production.

• Omega-3s: Anti-inflammatory and may help lower androgen activity.

• Spearmint tea: Some small studies suggest it can lower free testosterone levels in women.

• Saw palmetto: Thought to reduce DHT, but evidence is mixed — consult a healthcare professional before use.

Why Testing Your Hormones Matters

Not all acne is caused by androgens. For some, cortisol, insulin, or nutrient deficiencies are the bigger culprits. That’s why testing before guessing is so important.

The Acne Root Cause Test from BreakoutLabs measures 7 biomarkers — including androgen levels — so you’ll know exactly what’s happening in your body. Your results include a personalized Clear Skin Blueprint™ that outlines the next steps for achieving balance and clearer skin.

FAQs

Can high testosterone cause acne in women?
Yes. Elevated testosterone or DHT can increase oil production and drive persistent acne.

Do natural remedies really work for androgen-driven acne?
For many, lifestyle and diet changes can significantly reduce symptoms. For others, professional support may still be needed.

Is PCOS always the cause of androgen acne?
Not always. While PCOS is a common cause, stress, insulin resistance, or other factors can also elevate androgens.

Conclusion

Androgens are powerful hormones that play a key role in skin health. When they’re out of balance, acne can feel impossible to control. But through nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted support — guided by personalized testing — you can take back control.

Order your Acne Root Cause Test today to uncover whether androgen imbalance is fueling your breakouts.