🧬 What Is the Relationship Between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Adult Acne?

Hello, this is Yonsei Bomvit Dermatology.

From the late 20s into the 30s and 40s, many women experience acne that continues into adulthood or suddenly becomes more severe. In particular, if you have deep acne that repeatedly appears on the cheeks, jawline, or around the mouth, the cause may be an internal hormonal imbalance rather than a simple skin problem. One of the possible causes is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

💡 What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a relatively common endocrine disorder in women.

Ovulation does not occur properly in the ovaries, and many small follicles are present, which disrupts hormonal balance.

The following symptoms often appear together:

• Irregular periods or absence of menstruation

• Multiple small cysts in the ovaries

• Weight gain or abdominal obesity

• Coarser body hair or increased facial hair

• Adult acne

Because menstrual cycle abnormalities are accompanied by relatively higher levels of male hormones (androgens), various changes also occur in the skin.

🔎 Why Does Acne Occur in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

When polycystic ovary syndrome is present, the level of male hormones in the body rises, stimulating the sebaceous glands.

As more sebum is produced, pores become more easily clogged, and acne can develop and worsen as acne-causing bacteria multiply.

In particular, deep and painful acne often appears along the jawline, under the chin, and around the mouth, and it tends to heal poorly and recur.

In addition, stress, lack of sleep, and eating habits that cause blood sugar to rise quickly can increase insulin resistance,

which in turn leads to a further increase in male hormones, creating a cycle in which the skin and body affect each other.

🧑‍⚕️ What Kind of Treatment Is Needed?

Adult acne accompanied by polycystic ovary syndrome is difficult to improve sufficiently with skin care alone.

Effective treatment requires a combined approach from dermatology and obstetrics and gynecology.

• Dermatologic treatment: Antibiotics, retinoids, peels, and anti-inflammatory injections help reduce acne inflammation and suppress recurrence.

• Hormonal regulation: Oral contraceptives, anti-androgen medications, and similar treatments help lower male hormones and control the cause of acne.

• Lifestyle improvement: Weight loss, regular exercise, and a diet that stabilizes blood sugar are very important.

💬 When Should You Visit a Clinic?

• When deep acne frequently appears around the jaw and mouth and does not heal well

• When menstrual cycles are irregular and there is also weight gain or hirsutism

• When acne treatment has little effect and the acne keeps coming back

→ In these cases, the acne is more likely not simple acne but acne accompanied by hormonal problems.

In closing

Adult acne may not simply be a matter of external irritation or poor skin care.

Because a woman’s body is greatly influenced by hormones, the skin can also become a mirror that reflects the condition of the body.

If polycystic ovary syndrome is diagnosed early and daily habits are managed, both the skin and overall health can improve.

At Yonsei Bomvit Dermatology, we care for not only skin problems but also the underlying causes behind them.

If you have acne that you cannot resolve on your own, please consult us today.

📍 Yonsei Bomvit Dermatology

📞 02-837-8275

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