• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Fertility Nutrition

6 Ways to Promote Hormonal Balance to Prevent Cyclic Acne

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist
July 22, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

True or False? Acne is a teenage skin issue – False! Unfortunately for some adult women, even well into their reproductive years, each month as a menstrual period approaches so do red inflamed bumps on their skin. This is known as cyclic acne.

What Causes Cyclic Acne?

Acne is a result of increased androgen levels which cause the sebaceous glands of the skin to overproduce sebum (an oily, waxy substance) in a hair follicle. The overproduction of sebum can then plug a pore and lead to a bacterial infection in that pore which causes localized inflammation (swelling, pain, redness).

Excess levels of androgens not only cause some women to experience acne, but this hormone disorder is also linked to amenorrhea and one of the more perplexing health issues an increasing number of women face today: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS.

Acne may be caused by:

  • emotional stress
  • overproduction of testosterone by the ovaries
  • adrenal androgen excess or Hyperandrogenism
  • Hyperinsulinemia
  • 21-hydroxylase deficiency (which can also cause excessive hair growth, deepening of the voice, abnormal or absent periods, and fertility problems)
  • some medications

Medical Treatment with Birth Control Pills

Oral contraceptives are often prescribed to women experiencing acne. While oral contraceptives are known to be quite effective in controlling the external symptoms of acne, they come with their own set of cautions to be considered and aren’t ideal for use while trying to conceive.

Natural Treatment Options

Natural healthcare practitioners believe that the health of the skin, one of the major organs of elimination, is a direct reflection of the health of the internal organs of elimination, which are the liver, lymph system, and intestines. It is because of this belief that systemic and topical treatments are often combined, meaning that an herb or nutritional supplement is taken and a natural remedy applied externally to the skin.

So what can be done about cyclic acne? How can it be managed naturally?

1. Don’t Pick or Pop!

This may seem like a silly first step in managing acne and hard not to do, but popping blemishes can lead to additional breakouts and further infection, even scarring of the skin.

If you just can’t avoid it, be gentle! Wash your hands well and then hold a warm compress on the blemish for several minutes to soften the skin. Apply gentle downward pressure being sure not to pinch or break the skin with the fingernails. When popped, use any number of gentle topical applications (which can also be used if you DON’T POP) from the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory Lavender essential oil (no need to dilute) or a bit of antibacterial, anti-fungal Tea Tree essential oil (1-2 drops in a pump of scent-free, natural lotion), to Witch Hazel.

2. Improve Your Diet

Diet plays an important role in overall health, including the largest organ of the body, the skin.

To this day, there is still a disagreement in the healthcare world about whether consumption of excessive amounts of unhealthy fats, refined and processed foods, and chocolate really cause breakouts or not. This baffles me as science has proven that processed, fried and greasy foods are high in unhealthy, damaged fats, refined and artificial sugars, and refined flours – all of which task the liver, impact blood sugar levels, and negatively affect the immune system and hormonal balance. To me there is no question these should be eliminated entirely and certainly as much as possible when experiencing cyclic acne. It is well known that diet plays a major role in the health of the body.

Foods to Avoid – the following foods promote the body’s inflammatory response and are often man-made, making them hard to digest and eliminate.

  • processed foods
  • anything less than 70% dark chocolate
  • fried foods
  • white refined sugars and flours often used to make pastries, crackers, and breads

Foods to Add – this list supports cellular health, proper digestion, and improves the body’s natural ability to cleanse.

  • Fiber – helps the body eliminate excess hormones which, in turn, supports hormone and blood sugar balance, and promotes intestinal and immune system health.
  • Antioxidants – support cellular health and fight free radicals within the body.
  • Fermented Foods- kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha, and supplementing with a probiotic provide the gut with healthy bacteria to fight infection and inflammation, as well as boost the immune system.
  • Warm Lemon Water – start each day with eight ounces to support liver function. Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar suggests drinking 4 quarts of water a day to keep the body and skin properly hydrated.
  • Green Tea – is known to be an antioxidant powerhouse, and is also an anti-androgen.

3. Support a Healthy Liver

When dealing with cyclic acne, it perhaps is most important to consider supporting the liver, the body’s main organ of detoxification. This organ is responsible for removing toxins from the blood and also plays a major role in hormonal balance as it filters excess hormones and toxins from the body.

Liver Supportive Herbs

Milk Thistle Seed Extract – Milk Thistle Seed (Silybum marianum) stimulates the liver to cleanse and renew itself. It also stimulates the gallbladder to secrete bile which aids in digestion.

Dandelion leaf and root – This herb stimulates liver function and is a tonic for the endocrine system. Studies have shown an improvement in the skin with the use of Dandelion (Taraxacum off.) and Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus) (Vitex supports hormonal balance), along with dietary changes.

Red Clover – A nutrient-packed herb, Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) supports healthy liver function and aids in purification of the blood. In doing so, environmental pollutants are removed from the body, which may provide relief from cyclic acne.

4. Offer Your Body Endocrine System Support

The endocrine system is the message center of the body. It coordinates all hormones, which tell the body what it needs to do and when. When this system is out of balance, it becomes uncoordinated and hormone imbalance results. Optimally functioning endocrine glands may reduce the recurrence of cyclic acne by promoting hormone balance.

A class of herbs called adaptogens are great for this. Adaptogen herbs support the health of the endocrine system. Some of my favorites are Maca (Lepidium meyenii), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis), and Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum).

5. Consider Evening Primrose Oil

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is a plant source of the omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs), Linoleic Acid (LA) and Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA). LA and GLA are important for the production of prostaglandins, which play a critical role in controlling the regulation of hormones and proper cell growth. Being that EPO is also anti-inflammatory, in combination with its hormonal support, it has been shown useful for cyclic acne associated with PMS.

6. Manage Stress & Sleep

Stress has a powerful impact on the body. It can quickly run the body down, leaving it susceptible to infection and hormone irregularities. Stress depletes the adrenal glands, can lead to dehydration, and lack of sleep, which impacts the function of the organs of elimination and boosts levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, which inhibits the body’s main sex hormone GnRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone) and subsequently suppresses ovulation, sexual activity, and hormone balance.

Summary

Cyclic acne is a symptom of the body’s need for hormone balance, and improved gastrointestinal and liver health. If you deal with acne as your menstrual period approaches, consider integrating the above foods and herbs into your daily diet and fertility health program. Oh, and please try hard not to pick or pop!

References

  • 21-hydroxylase deficiency. (n.d.). Retrieved from: http://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/gard/5757/21-hydroxylase-deficiency/case/21416/case-questions#460.
  • Acne. (n.d.). Retrieved from: http://www.winchesterhospital.org/health-library/article?id=21375
  • Androgen. (n.d.). Retrieved from: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/androgen
  • Barton, D. (n.d.). Red Clover: Fertility Herb and Tonic. Retrieved from: http://natural-fertility-info.com/red-clover-fertility-herb.html
  • Gladstar, R. (1993). Herbal healing for women: Simple home remedies for women of all ages. New York: Simon & Schuster.
  • Rodriguez, H. (n.d.). Vitex… Fertility Super Herb? Retrieved from: http://natural-fertility-info.com/vitex
  • Romm, A. J. (2010). Botanical medicine for women’s health. Chapter 5. St. Louis, MO: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.
  • Hormonal Acne: New Science on How to Beat It. (2017). Retrieved from: http://paleoforwomen.com/hormonal-acne-where-its-coming-from-and-what-to-do-about-it/
  • Vorvick, L. and Storck, S. (2012) “Ovarian Overproduction of Androgens: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia.” U.S National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001165.htm

« Previous Post
Dream Your Baby Into Being - Using Dream Recall to Enhance Fertility
Next Post »
The Importance of L-Carnitine to Sperm Health

About the Author

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist

Elizabeth Willett - M.A., Certified Herbalist

Elizabeth Willett is the Senior Herbalist and Lead Educator at NaturalFertilityInfo.com. She holds a BS in Mass Communications (2000) from Minnesota State University, and a Master of Arts degree (MA, 2010) in Holistic Health Studies with a specialization is herbalism from St. Catherine University in St. Paul, MN. Liz has written over 200 articles on women's fertility and brings a vast wealth of knowledge and expertise in holistic health and healing to Natural Fertility Info.com

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 23

Open
Q: Does having PMS mean hormonal imbalance?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
What you are doing today is impacting the health of your eggs 90 days from now. Let's pamper those eggs! 
​
​If you are wondering where to get started, download my egg health guide at www.EggHealthTips.com

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 17

Open
Can added sugars in our diets affect hormonal health and fertility? Here are the details and the effects sugary foods can have on hormonal and reproductive health... 
​
​What's your biggest hurdle when it comes to sugar?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 12

Open
Diana’s story is one of true heartbreak after years of struggle, but with a glorious golden light at the end of the tunnel. Here is her truly inspiring fertility journey…
​
​​​​​
​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 6

Open
Q: I am on birth control, can I start supporting my hormonal health with herbs and supplements or do I need to be off of birth control to start?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 4

Open
Have you been waiting to begin making healthy lifestyle changes to support your fertility health? Do you feel overwhelmed about where to begin?
​
​What has been holding you back?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 2

Open
Girls, we all have one. Here are some ways to encourage health and balance, naturally...
​
​For the full guide, click the link in our Bio.
​

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 27

Open
Jennifer experienced multiple miscarriages before finding our website. She became inspired by our success stories and was determined to become one too! Read more about her journey... 
​
​
​​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 25

Open
Q: When should someone consider having testing done?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 21

Open
To make an impact on your health, you will need to first learn the actions and steps to take... then you will need to be consistent with those actions. It is the consistency that brings you the results. You are going to be human and not be perfect 100% of the time. Just accept that and get back to it. Consistency, day in and out, is more important than being perfect. You can't be 100% perfect for long, but you can be consistent every day.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 19

Open
If you’ve undergone many consecutive fertility treatments without a successful pregnancy, it could be time for a break. Taking a break gives your body a chance to cleanse, reset and recover. Relief from the side effects and stress could be exactly what you need for a fresh start for your fertility journey.

Use the time to work on yourself- mind and body. A break might even give you the opportunity to find a new sense of peace or a new version of your fertility program.
​
Learn more about natural therapies you can use to help your body reset after medical fertility treatments...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 13

Open
After 6 unsuccessful IUIs and one IVF of the same result, Angela takes a break and discovers the Natural Fertility Company. Using our resources to help her implement some changes, she has a much different result on her next IVF at 43. Click through the slides to read her story...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 11

Open
Q: My partner smokes, will this affect his fertility?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 6

Open
I have KMF imprinted on many of my personal belongings as a constant reminder to Keep Moving Forward. This started to be my mantra about 20 years ago when I was in a tough patch and knew the only way was through, and step by step. Keep moving forward. What is the next step, shuffle or even pause that may need to happen? Whatever it is, move towards it, into it, and forward.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 4

Open
With so many chemicals and outside factors contributing to estrogen dominance in the body, it is good to help support hormonal balance and one way to do that is through foods.
​
​Here are some tips, including foods that help to promote the body's natural ability to get rid of excess estrogens. ..
​
​Are you getting any of these foods in your weekly diet?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 1

Open
Trish conceives her second child with natural therapies at 37. Swipe through to read her story... 
​
​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 30

Open
Q: I have heavy periods, should I be concerned about using tampons?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 28

Open
I knew what my life's calling was at a very young age. At around 16, I had a dream where a dreadlocked rasta man came to me (Burning Spears to be exact) and in that dream was told that I was to be a healer. It was the type of dream that was more real than reality. The next day I woke up feeling different than I had ever felt before. Later on that day, we had new neighbors move into the house above us and a woman came and introduced herself. When I opened the door, she said her name and told me she was opening up a school of healing and that I was to be one of her students. It was one of the most intense series of events in my life. I went on to go to her school and my path started with an amazing community and so much support. What are one of the most life changing experiences you have had? I would love to hear...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
Stress can be one of the primary factors behind infertility. Believe it or not, our bodies are equipped to prevent conception from occurring during times of extreme stress. The presence of adrenaline, the hormone that is released by our bodies during stressful times, signals to our body that conditions are not ideal for conception. Adrenaline inhibits us from utilizing the hormone progesterone, which is essential for fertility. It also causes the pituitary gland to release higher levels of prolactin, which also causes infertility to occur.
​
​Swipe left for ways to reduce the effect of stress on your fertility...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
At 39, Milissa focuses on natural ways to prevent another miscarriage & goes on to conceive. Swipe through the slides to read more about her journey... 
​
​
​**​​While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us