If you’re dealing with hormonal acne, you know it’s more than just a few breakouts. Hormonal acne typically appears along the jawline, chin, and cheeks, often in deep, stubborn bumps that are difficult to treat with standard over-the-counter products. The good news? With the right non-comedogenic ingredients and a targeted skincare routine, you can take control and minimize these breakouts effectively.
Let’s dive into the best ingredients to look for in products for hormonal acne, including how each works and how to use them for the best results.
The Ingredients You Need for Hormonal Acne
Some skincare ingredients can truly transform how your skin looks and feels (we use many of them in CLEARSTEM’s products for a reason!). Here are the top non-comedogenic ingredients to look for if you’re dealing with hormonal acne:
Sulfur
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What It Does: Sulfur is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory that helps absorb excess oil and dry out surface-level acne.
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Why It Works for Hormonal Acne: Sulfur reduces inflammation and oiliness, making it ideal for treating active breakouts. It’s gentle, non-comedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin.
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How to Use It: Use sulfur in spot treatments or masks, applying it to specific areas rather than all over the face to avoid over-drying.
Magnesium PCA
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What It Does: Magnesium PCA is a hydrating, soothing mineral salt that supports your skin’s natural balance while reducing inflammation.
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Why It Works for Hormonal Acne: Magnesium PCA helps control oil production and maintain hydration without clogging pores, making it ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
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How to Use It: Look for sprays or serums with magnesium PCA. Apply it after cleansing to help manage oil and calm irritation.
Bakuchiol
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What It Does: Bakuchiol is a plant-based, gentle alternative to retinol that promotes cell turnover and collagen production.
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Why It Works for Hormonal Acne: Bakuchiol provides the benefits of a retinoid-like smoothing skin texture and fading hyperpigmentation—without causing irritation or increasing sun sensitivity.
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How to Use It: Use bakuchiol in a moisturizer form, applying it in the evening as part of your routine. It’s gentle enough for regular use and can be safely paired with other active ingredients.
Mandelic Acid
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What It Does: Mandelic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that dives deep into the pores, clearing out oil and dead skin cells. Think of it as your go-to for unclogging pores and reducing inflammation.
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Why It Works for Hormonal Acne: Hormonal acne often begins with clogged pores. Salicylic acid’s exfoliating properties prevent future breakouts by keeping pores clear and reducing redness.
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How to Use It: Start with a cleanser, toner, or serum. Serums should have a minimum of 5% but can be beneficial up to 11% in some cases. Use it once daily (preferably at night) to maintain clear pores without drying out the skin.
Niacinamide
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What It Does: Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is gentle but powerful. It reduces redness, regulates oil production, and strengthens the skin’s barrier.
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Why It Works for Hormonal Acne: Niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for calming the redness and irritation often associated with hormonal breakouts.
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How to Use It: Look for a 5% niacinamide serum that can be applied morning or night. It’s mild enough for daily use and pairs well with other acne-fighting ingredients.
A Daily Routine for Hormonal Acne
Consistency is key in managing hormonal acne. Here’s a routine that’s effective yet gentle enough for daily use with non-pore-clogging ingredients:
Morning Routine
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Protein-heavy breakfast: Avoid dairy and eggs as these can often make acne worse. Instead, go for grass-fed/pasture-raised protein or dairy-free chia seed pudding.
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Non-Comedogenic Cleanser: Start with a gentle cleanser to clear oil and prevent clogged pores.
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Toner with Hypochlorous Acid, Niacinamide or Magnesium PCA: Spritz on SKINSPRAY ALL DAY™️ to help soothe your skin, reduce inflammation, and prep for other products.
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Niacinamide Serum: Apply a niacinamide serum to balance oil and calm irritation. It’s non-comedogenic and works well with other ingredients.
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Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer: Choose an oil-free moisturizer that hydrates without clogging pores.
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Sunscreen (SPF 30+): Protect your skin with a zinc-based non-comedogenic, mineral sunscreen, especially when using active ingredients. Zinc formulas help calm inflammation.
Evening Routine
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Gentle, Non-Comedogenic Cleanser: Remove makeup, dirt, and impurities with a mild, sulfate-free cleanser. GENTLECLEAN™️ is known to do this within one wash!
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Acne-Safe Facial Oil: Hydrate and restore your skin's protective barrier with GOLDENHOUR™️, infused with Watermelon Seed Oil and Sodium Hyaluronate.
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Bakuchiol Moisturizer: Apply a bakuchiol moisturizer like HYDRAGLOW™️ to instantly hydrate, plump, and boost cell turnover while keeping pores clear.
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Optional Spot Treatment (Sulfur): For any active breakouts, apply a SULFUR SPOT&MASK™️ on any affected areas or use weekly as a preventative mask.
Supplements to Support Hormonal Acne from Within
Sometimes, managing hormonal acne requires more than topical products. Here are some supplements that can support clearer skin from the inside out:
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Inositol: Inositol helps with blood sugar and inflammation and is a must-have. It is also critical for hormonal acne linked to PCOS or cycle irregularities.
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MINDBODYSKIN®: This natural supplement includes Bioavailable Vitamin A + B5, DIM, Turmeric, Dandelion Root, 5-HTP, and Glutathione to target key areas affecting skin health like oil production, digestion, and detoxification.* (If you are taking SSRIs, we recommend using MINDBODYSKIN®2 with no 5-HTP).
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Zinc in small doses: Zinc is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce acne severity. Stick to 100% RDV because excessive zinc can actually spike testosterone and create hormonal acne.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s from fish oil help reduce inflammation, which may result in fewer, less intense breakouts.
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DIM (Diindolylmethane): DIM, found in cruciferous vegetables, can help balance estrogen levels, which can be beneficial for hormone-related acne.
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Probiotics: Probiotics support gut health, which can have a positive impact on skin inflammation and overall health.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you’re on medication.
*This supplement is not intended to treat, diagnose, prevent, or cure any disease. The FDA does not evaluate supplements; therefore, we recommend checking with your doctor for any contraindications.
Lifestyle Tips for Managing Hormonal Acne Naturally
There are several ways to treat hormonal acne naturally. While the right skincare routine is important, lifestyle changes can also support clearer skin. Here are some helpful tips:
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Limit High-Glycemic Foods: Foods with high sugar content or refined carbs can spike insulin levels, which may trigger breakouts.
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Reduce Dairy Intake: Dairy, especially milk, may exacerbate acne for some people. Try switching to dairy-free alternatives to see if your skin improves.
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Manage Stress: High stress levels affect hormone balance, which can worsen breakouts. Try stress-relief techniques like mindfulness, exercise, or deep breathing.
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Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps keep skin balanced and reduces oil production. Choose mineral water and add stevia-free electrolytes or sea salt.
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Use Only Non-Comedogenic Products: From makeup to skincare, look for products labeled as ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘non-pore-clogging’ to prevent clogged pores. Use our Pore-Clogging Checker to identify acne-causing ingredients in your current products.
Choosing the Right Non-Comedogenic Hormonal Acne Treatment Products
Selecting the right products for hormonal acne involves understanding the ingredients. Focus on non-comedogenic options that target acne-causing factors without clogging pores.
Stick to a consistent routine, consider supplements for hormonal acne, and be mindful of your diet and stress levels. Clearer, healthier skin takes time, but with the right approach, you can achieve it–you deserve it!
