Adult acne: Is it caused by a hormonal imbalance?

Adult acne: Is it caused by a hormonal imbalance?
Is it true that adult acne is the result of a hormonal imbalance in the body? I'm thinking about trying a natural hormone acne treatment.
- Brigitte / No state given

Mayo Clinic dermatologist Lawrence Gibson, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer
Hormones likely play a role in the development of adult acne. Some adult women experience mild to moderate acne due to hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, menstruation, and stopping and starting birth control pills. But hormones generally are not the root cause of acne.

It is true that some people with hormonal imbalances due to diseases such as polycystic ovary syndrome experience more problems with acne. However, the vast majority of those with adult acne have no measurable hormonal imbalance.
A number of so-called natural acne treatments promise to "equalize" hormonal imbalances to reduce adult acne breakouts. As dietary supplements, these products are subject to limited regulation by the Food and Drug Administration. So buyer beware.

Adult acne can be a distressing and frustrating problem. Successful treatment of severe adult acne may take months or even years. But the good news is effective treatments are available. If you're concerned about adult acne, consult a dermatologist to learn more about safe, proven treatments. Also, check with your doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.