What are the different types of hormonal acne found in individuals with PCOS?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Hormonal acne in people with PCOS is typically caused by imbalances in sex hormones, particularly elevated androgens. These hormonal shifts can trigger several types of breakouts, including cystic acne, painful nodules, and inflammatory acne. Understanding the root cause is key to finding effective treatment and long-term relief.

Because PCOS-related acne often mimics other skin conditions, identifying the underlying issue can be challenging on your own. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you assess your symptoms in minutes, offer insight into possible causes, and guide your next steps—whether that means lifestyle changes, seeing a dermatologist, or consulting an endocrinologist. Taking this quick step could bring you closer to clearer skin and better hormonal health.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover if hormones may be causing acne Learn whether your acne suggests PCOS Find out if acne needs medical care See OTC options for hormonal acne Find a doctor for acne and PCOS Understand home remedies for hormonal acne Check if acne points to PCOS

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Explanation

Hormonal acne in individuals with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is primarily influenced by imbalances in sex hormones. These hormonal changes can lead to different types of acne, which often manifest as more severe forms compared to typical acne.

Types of Hormonal Acne in PCOS

Cystic Acne: This type of acne is characterized by large, painful cysts that form deep under the skin. Cystic acne is often linked to increased androgen levels, which are common in PCOS.
Nodular Acne: Similar to cystic acne, nodular acne involves large, hard lumps under the skin. These nodules can be painful and are also associated with hormonal fluctuations.
Inflammatory Acne: This includes papules and pustules, which are red and swollen. Hormonal imbalances can lead to increased sebum production and inflammation, contributing to this type of acne.

Managing hormonal acne in PCOS often involves addressing the underlying hormonal imbalance, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or other treatments as advised by a healthcare provider. If you're experiencing symptoms that may be related to PCOS or hormonal acne, you can use our free AI symptom checker to help identify potential causes and determine when to seek medical care.

(References)

Branisteanu DE, Toader MP, Porumb EA, Serban IL, Pinzariu AC, Branisteanu CI, et al. (2022). Adult female acne: Clinical and therapeutic particularities .... Experimental and therapeutic medicine, 35069832.
Ju Q, Tao T, Hu T, Karadağ AS, Al-Khuzaei S, & Chen W. (2017). Sex hormones and acne. Clinics in dermatology, 28274349.
Farny C, & Alberto C. (2025). [Adult female acne : when and why to consider a hormonal .... Revue medicale suisse, 40145185.

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