Adult acne and women's hair loss

Adult acne and female pattern hair loss can be sources of stress and concern for many women—and often, they occur together. Understanding the underlying causes is the first step in finding effective treatments.

Common Causes of Adult Acne and Women's Hair Loss

1. Hormone-Related Acne and Hair Loss

Excess male hormones (androgens) or heightened sensitivity of the oil glands and hair follicles are the most common causes of adult acne and hair loss in women.

These hormonal imbalances can occur during different life stages, such as:

• Adolescence
• During and after pregnancy
• Before and after menopause

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is another condition that disrupts hormonal balance, leading to increased acne and hair loss.

2. Stress-Related Acne and Hair Loss

Stress, whether acute or chronic, triggers the release of cortisol. This hormone:

• Stimulates oil production in the skin, leading to more acne.
• Contributes to excessive hair shedding and thinning.

Other stress-related triggers include lack of sleep, dehydration, or extreme physical stress and environmental conditions.

3. Diet and Nutrition

A poor diet lacking essential micronutrients—such as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids—can affect both the oil glands and hair follicles. These nutrients are crucial for healthy skin and hair.

4. Medication-Related Acne and Hair Loss

Certain medications can exacerbate acne and hair loss, including:

• Corticosteroids
• Antidepressants
• Epilepsy medications
• Hormonal birth control pills or hormonal IUDs (which may worsen acne or increase hair shedding in some women).

Best Treatments for Adult Acne and Hair Loss in Women

Addressing adult acne and hair loss starts with identifying the root cause. A hormonal evaluation can help rule out measurable imbalances. Once diagnosed, treatments can be tailored to the individual's needs.

Topical Treatments

For Acne:

• Retinoid creams with niacinamide:
  • Start with a retinol 0.25%/niacinamide 2% cream and, after two months, progress to a stronger 0.5%/4% formulation for better results.
  • These treatments help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and improve skin tone.

For Hair Loss:

• Minoxidil 2%: A proven treatment for female pattern hair loss when used consistently.
• Plant-based options: For women seeking natural solutions, try the Restore Serum treatment combined with a hair Regrowth Shampoo containing active botanical ingredients.

Oral Treatments

For Acne:

• Spironolactone: Originally designed for hypertension, this medication is often prescribed by dermatologists to manage adult acne caused by hormonal imbalances.
• DIM (diindolylmethane) supplements: Derived from cruciferous vegetables, DIM helps balance hormones and supports topical acne treatments.

For Hair Loss:

• DHT-blocking supplements: These supplements, formulated with saw palmetto, nettle, and other natural ingredients, can support hair regrowth and reduce further loss.

Adult acne and hair loss in women are often interconnected and can stem from hormonal, lifestyle, or medication-related factors. By addressing the root causes through personalized topical and oral treatments, women can manage these conditions more effectively and regain confidence in their skin and hair health.

More info on adult acne
More info on genetic and hormonal women's hair loss
More info on postpartum hair loss
More info on menopause-related hair loss

To find the right acne treatments for your unique skin, take the free skin assessment by clicking here.