Does progesterone cause acne?

The main hormonal trigger of acne in both men and women is testosterone. Progesterone inhibits the 5α-reductase required to convert testosterone to the more potent Dihydroxy testosterone (DHT).

Progesterone, which is out of sync with estrogen, is usually the hormonal cause behind the dreaded pre-menstrual breakouts that many of you are so familiar with. It also plays a role in acne flare-ups that women get when they go off of hormonal birth control.

It seems that a low progesterone/estrogen ratio can increase insulin levels, which in turn can lead to excess androgens and amplify testosterone and DHT conversion in the skin. DHT is a potent acne-causing variant of testosterone that other forms of testosterone get converted into in the skin via an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. Having a normal progesterone level in relation to estrogen can prevent 5-alpha-reductase from converting testosterone to DHT, which will, in turn, prevent acne.

Thus, it seems that progesterone in the right amount can decrease the severity of acne.

More info.

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