Natural Supplements For Hormonal Acne

Hormone imbalances are very common in both men and women. It’s something that is treatable once you identify what it is. The most common hormone imbalance that leads to acne is an excess of testosterone or androgens. This excess can cause too much sebum production and lead to hormonal acne. There are several natural supplements that have been shown to balance hormones and reduce acne. (post includes affiliate links; full disclosure statement available {here})

Zinc

Is an important mineral for the skin. It helps with acne by regulating the metabolism and hormone levels. Studies have shown that those with low levels of zinc tend to have more acne. Zinc is a natural way to support the ovaries, which also decreases the over production of androgens. This is important because the most common acne is caused by an excess of testosterone or androgens. It also decreases testosterone from turning into DHT. Lastly, zinc kills the bacteria on the skin that becomes acne while also reducing inflammation.

Green Tea Extract

Green tea contains an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show that green tea has the ability to significantly reduce acne. It reduces sebum (oil) production and fights inflamation in the skin. An excess of sebum in the skin can clog pores leading to bacterial overgrowth, causing acne.

Dim

Is considered a natural alternative to spironolactone. It’s a natural compound that comes from cruciferous vegetables found in broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. It has anti-inflammatory properties and it balances your hormone and estrogen levels. Dim works similar to spironolactone by blocking androgens leading to less oil and clogged pores, which means less acne.

Omega 3

Studies have shown that a diet rich in omega-3 fats helped to reduce cortisol and epinephrine. It can help reduce insulin levels, insulin resistance and inflammation. They also help to boost the metabolism which helps with weight loss. The body needs fats to create hormones, eating enough healthy fats balances the hormones. Some healthy fats include avocado, flaxseeds, and coconut oil. Supplementing with a omega-3 can be beneficial as well. 

Saw Palmetto

Saw Palmetto works by blocking testosterone from turning into DHT. It has anti-androgenic effects that can help fight against acne. A study found that saw palmetto helped to reduce the sebum levels in the skin. Saw Palmetto also contains essential fatty acids that are helpful for oily, acne prone skin.

Vitex

Also known as chasteberry, balances the hormones and reduces the amount of androgens in the body. This eases PMS symptoms and decreases the hormone prolactin. It has shown to be especially helpful for those with cystic acne.

Maca Root

Maca root helps to balance estrogen levels. Estrogen is the female sex hormone that regulates the reproductive system. Having an imbalance can cause symptoms like bloating, irregular periods, and mood swings. When estrogen levels are too high or low it can be harder to get pregnant. Maca root is able to balance hormone levels and control the amount of estrogen that’s in the body. By getting the hormones balanced it can help with reducing symptoms of PCOS, hormonal acne, weight gain, and fertility.