Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS, now PMOS) is a common condition that can contribute to acne. It can be challenging to live with and manage, especially when you’ve tried a variety of treatments that do not seem to help.
If your acne never goes away, no matter what you try, an underlying condition such as PCOS may be the culprit. Fortunately, you can take steps to address the root causes of both acne and PCOS, and improve your appearance and general health.
What’s the Link Between Acne and PCOS?
PCOS is a female condition in which the body produces excessively high amounts of male hormones called androgens.
It’s normal for females to have a small amount of androgens. But high androgen levels in females can contribute to male characteristics, including male-pattern baldness and facial hair, as well as weight gain and acne.
The hormonal changes that occur with PCOS can also affect fertility and insulin resistance—the latter of which can amplify inflammation in the body. Higher androgen and insulin levels can increase the skin’s oil production to cause clogged pores and acne. Inflammation in the gut microbiome can also impact the skin’s overall health and structure, contributing to acne.
Medical Acne Treatments That May Help
Several medications are available to treat acne. These options include:
- Hormonal birth control. Birth control may help regulate your hormone levels, reducing the severity of acne.
- Spironolactone. This medication has been shown to be promising at reducing many symptoms of PCOS, including male-pattern baldness, unwanted hair growth, and acne.
- Benzoyl peroxide. Prescription-grade benzoyl peroxide can decrease inflammation and bacterial growth on the skin to treat acne.
- Salicylic acid. This agent can reduce redness and swelling, and it promotes exfoliation of the top layer of skin.
- Oral antibiotics. Antibiotics such as doxycycline and lymecycline can target inflammation and underlying bacterial infections contributing to severe cases of acne.
Best Foods for Treating Acne in PCOS
Modifying your diet is one of the best steps you can take to control PCOS and its symptoms. Certain foods are loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients that naturally reduce inflammation, support your skin health, and correct hormone imbalances.
Low-Glycemic Index Foods
The glycemic index (GI) is a measurement of the rate at which foods with carbs can raise your blood sugar levels. Eating high amounts of foods with a high glycemic index can spike your insulin to worsen both PCOS and acne.
Stick to eating foods with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains and sweet potatoes, and avoid foods with a high glycemic index, such as white breads, mashed potatoes, and pastries.
Examples of healthy low-glycemic foods to include in your diet:
- Berries
- Apples
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Lentils
- Chickpeas
- Nuts
- Quinoa
- Oatmeal
- Spinach
- Greek yogurt
- Fish
- Eggs
Probiotics
Probiotics introduce healthy bacteria to your gut and correct imbalances in the microbiome, contributing to inflammation and acne. Foods containing probiotics may also aid in weight loss and weight management.
Probiotics to include in your diet:
- Yogurt
- Kimchi
- Kefir
- Kombucha
- Sauerkraut
- Tempeh
- Miso
- Natto
Omega-3s
Also known as “healthy fats,” omega-3 fatty acids are highly therapeutic and commonly used to treat a wide range of inflammatory issues, including PCOS and acne. Omega-3s are found in fatty fish and many other foods.
Good sources of omega-3s include:
- Fatty fish, such as tuna, salmon, mackerel, and sardines
- Avocados
- Nuts, including walnuts and almonds
- Flaxseed
- Chia seeds
- Edamame
- Olive oil
Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals that contribute to health problems such as acne, heart disease, and cancer. They can also decrease your body’s insulin and androgen levels.
Several antioxidants support skin health by boosting hydration, collagen, and elastin production. These include:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin A
- Omega-3s
- Polyphenols
Foods with high levels of these antioxidants include oranges, grapefruit, avocado, peanuts, berries, and green tea. An integrative medicine doctor in Charlotte, NC can talk to you in greater detail about which foods offer the greatest benefits against acne and PCOS.
Lifestyle Changes to Improve Acne
You don’t necessarily need to overhaul your entire lifestyle to combat acne and PCOS, but a few small changes can make a huge difference. Lifestyle changes that support better skin health include regular exercise, adequate sleep, and effective stress management.
Exercise
Regular exercise helps your body regulate all your hormones, including androgens, insulin, and cortisol, a stress hormone. Exercise also increases blood flow and circulation, which helps transport oxygen and nutrients to your skin for optimal healing and nourishment.
Incorporate exercise into your daily routine, even if it’s a small amount at first. Stick to activities you enjoy, and gradually increase your intensity level as you become more fit.
Quality Sleep
Sleep, like exercise, can also help balance your hormones. Quality sleep may also reduce inflammation and the risk of mood disorders associated with PCOS.
Aim to get at least seven hours of sleep every night. Make changes to your bedroom as needed to feel more comfortable at night, whether it involves hanging blackout curtains to block noise and light or adjusting the temperature.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can spike your body’s cortisol levels to upset your overall hormone balance. Stress can also drive inflammation and make both acne and PCOS worse.
Find good ways to manage stress that work best for you. Listen to relaxing music, or wind down at the end of the night with a warm bath. Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing are other effective ways to manage stress.
SouthPark Functional Medicine Can Treat Acne and PCOS
If you feel as though you’ve tried everything to treat acne and PCOS without success, SouthPark Functional Medicine can help. Dr. Mahtani, a functional medicine specialist, can help you address the root causes of your condition, allowing you to avoid acne and manage other PCOS symptoms.
Contact Dr. Mahtani today at 980-414-4600 or email reception@southparkfm.com to request a consultation and learn more about how our Charlotte, NC, clinic can help.
