There are a few major clues that can help you figure out whether or not your zits are is due to hormones. The first big one, Porter explained, is the timing of your breakouts. “You’ll often have flares during menstrual cycle or ovulation, starting a new birth control pill, or during other hormonal shifts such as pregnancy or menopause,” she said.
Another indicator is the location of your acne. Hormonal acne is usually located under the cheekbones, along the jawline or around the mouth.
The appearance of the pimples also offer clues. “Hormonal acne tends to be deep or cystic and sensitive or painful to touch; it is also more likely to leave a scar,” Porter said.
Also be sure to pay attention to what type treatments your acne responds to. Porter explained that if your breakouts are not responding to topical treatments or change (for better or worse!) when you take or stop taking hormonal birth control, these are all signs that hormones are the offender. “The problem isn’t coming from the surface of your skin but from hormonal shifts and imbalances that affect your entire body,” she said.
If you’re on birth control, Porter recommended checking the brand and type. There are brands that help keep skin clear and others that can trigger breakouts. Ask your doctor which prescription is best for you.
