Acne guides
What's behind your breakouts, and how to find out.
Why Does Acne Come Back After Accutane?
Why Does Acne Come Back After Accutane? Key Takeaways Accutane (isotretinoin) reduces oil production temporarily but does not fix the internal hormonal or metabolic imbalances that cause acne Between 20–33%...
Period and Menstrual cycle acne
Period breakouts are driven by cyclical hormonal shifts, not poor hygiene. In this 2025 guide, learn why pimples cluster along your jawline 7–10 days before menstruation, how falling estrogen and rising progesterone boost sebum and inflammation, and what cycle-aware skincare, diet, home remedies and emerging treatments (like probiotics and light therapy) can do to restore balance. Use our free cycle-skin tracker to spot patterns and tailor your routine.”
DHEA and DHEA‑Sulfate Tests
Our 2025 guide demystifies DHEA and DHEA‑S hormones, explaining how they build sex hormones, who should consider testing, and the pros and cons of blood versus saliva testing. Learn about normal ranges, common causes of high or low levels, and next steps to restore balance—all while seeing how BreakoutLabs makes hormone testing simple
The Gut–Skin Connection: How Your Microbiome Influences Acne
Emerging research shows that your gut health directly influences your skin. A balanced microbiome regulates immune responses and reduces inflammation, while gut dysbiosis and increased permeability (“leaky gut”) allow toxins into the bloodstream and trigger systemic inflammation that can manifest as acne. This article demystifies the gut–skin axis, explains how imbalances lead to breakouts, and offers science-backed strategies—like probiotics, fiber-rich foods, and stress management—to support your microbiome for clearer skin.
Differences between teen and adult acne
Acne isn’t just for teenagers. During puberty, hormone surges enlarge oil glands and boost sebum, leading to breakouts on the face, chest and back. In adulthood, acne often shifts to the chin and lower face and is driven by stress, menstrual fluctuations, medications and slower skin turnover. This article compares the causes and treatment strategies across life stages and explains why biomarker testing helps pinpoint your personal triggers
How Blood Sugar Affects Your Skin
Insulin resistance and high blood sugar can fuel hormonal acne by increasing androgens and IGF‑1. This article explains the connection, shares evidence linking insulin resistance to acne severity, and offers diet, lifestyle, and testing strategies to improve insulin sensitivity and clear your skin.
PCOS Acne: Causes, Where It Shows Up, and What to Test
PCOS acne is driven by high androgens, low SHBG and insulin. Here's how to tell if your acne is from PCOS, why it clusters on the chin and jawline, how it differs from hormonal acne, and which blood markers to check at home.
Natural Ways to Balance Hormones
Androgen Levels and Acne: Natural Ways to Balance Hormones If you’ve ever noticed breakouts that seem resistant to every cleanser, scrub, or spot treatment, hormones may be to blame —...
How to Cure Hormonal Acne & Cystic Acne
How to Cure Hormonal Acne & Cystic Acne Naturally: Cystic acne is one of the most painful and frustrating skin conditions. Unlike surface pimples, cysts form deep under the skin,...
Managing Hormonal Acne: Birth Control vs. Natural Approaches
Birth Control vs. Natural Approaches: Managing Hormonal Acne Safely If you’ve struggled managing hormonal acne or struggled with stubborn acne, chances are someone has suggested going on the pill. Birth...
Hormonal Acne Diet
Hormonal Acne Diet: What to Eat (and What to Avoid) for Clearer Skin Have you ever wondered why your skin flares after a sugary binge or seems calmer when you...
Natural Remedies for Hormonal Acne
Natural Remedies for Hormonal Acne If you keep waking up to jawline breakouts despite buying every serum on the market, you’re not alone its most likely hormonal acne. Many people...