Pimples that return every month like clockwork, often around the chin, jawline, or forehead, accompanied by stubborn microcysts... Adult hormonal acne affects up to 40% of women aged 25-40 and remains one of the most difficult forms of acne to treat with conventional topical products.
Why? Because it starts from within. In this article, we explain the hormonal mechanisms at play and the natural solutions that act in depth.
Understanding hormonal acne: the role of androgens
Hormonal acne results from overstimulation of the sebaceous glands by androgens - particularly testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone). These hormones, also present in women, increase sebum production, which clogs pores and creates an environment conducive to bacteria.
Several factors amplify this phenomenon:
- The luteal phase of the cycle (days 21 to 28): the drop in estrogen allows androgens to dominate, leading to premenstrual breakouts
- Chronic stress: cortisol stimulates the adrenal glands, which produce DHEA, a precursor to androgens
- Hyperinsulinemia: a diet rich in refined sugars increases IGF-1, which amplifies androgenic activity in the skin
- Intestinal dysbiosis: an imbalanced microbiome can impair the elimination of excess hormones
Natural solutions: address the underlying factors
Before taking supplements, a few dietary and lifestyle changes can make all the difference:
- Reduce the glycemic index: avoid refined sugars, dairy products rich in IGF-1, and ultra-processed foods
- Eat omega-3s: oily fish, flax seeds, walnuts - to modulate skin inflammation
- Dietary zinc: oysters, pumpkin seeds, legumes - zinc inhibits 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT
- Manage stress: reducing cortisol has a direct impact on sebum regulation
- Suitable skincare routine: gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic serum, avoid overloading the skin
Choosing the right supplements for hormonal acne
The most effective supplements for hormonal acne act on several fronts simultaneously:
- Zinc: regulates sebum production and supports skin repair — EFSA-approved claim for the maintenance of normal skin
- Vitamin B6: contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity — EFSA-approved claim
- Adaptogenic plants: to modulate the stress response and reduce excess androgen activity
- Collagen + vitamin C: to repair scars and restore the skin barrier
The Epycure solution: two complementary formulas for the skin
Blemish Gummies — Regulate sebum from within
The strength of Epycure Blemish Gummies lies in their unique patented complex:
- Actrisave® 250 mg: patented extract of black rice and prickly pear, clinically studied for its sebum-regulating action
- Nettle 25 mg: plant that acts on androgen metabolism by partially inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase
- Zinc 10 mg (100% of NRV): EFSA-approved claim — contributes to the maintenance of normal skin
- Vitamin B6 1.4 mg (100% of NRV): EFSA-approved claim — contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity
Lab’Epycure results: 85% of testers found their skin more beautiful, 73% noticed fewer microcysts after 8 weeks.
Dosage: 2 gummies per day, preferably in the morning. Timeline: first effects on shine at Day 30, visible reduction in blemishes at Day 60, optimal results at Day 90.
Plumped Skin Course — Repair and Fill
For skin with scars, a loss of firmness, or a dull complexion, the Epycure Plumped Skin Course complements the action of the Gummies:
- Reggenerate™ 300 mg: patented complex combining type I, V and X collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid for deep structural restoration
- Borage oil: rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) to strengthen the skin's lipid barrier
- Vitamin C: EFSA claim — contributes to normal collagen formation for the skin
- Zinc + selenium + vitamin E: antioxidant protection and support for cellular repair
Lab’Epycure results: 97% overall effectiveness, 78% testers noted less pronounced wrinkles, 97% more hydrated skin.
Anti-Blemish Gummies — Actrisave® + zinc + vitamin B6 + nettle
Plumped Skin Course — Reggenerate™ + hyaluronic acid + vitamin C
Recommended protocol: gummies + course for optimal results
For combination to acne-prone skin with blemishes and marks: combining Anti-Blemish Gummies (regulating action) and the Plumped Skin Course (repairing action) offers a comprehensive approach.
These two products are compatible and complementary. Recommended minimum course: 3 months for lasting results across acne cycles.
Conclusion
Adult hormonal acne responds poorly to topical treatments because its roots are internal. Targeting androgen regulation, inflammation and the skin barrier through targeted, clinically validated active ingredients offers a more sustainable approach than emergency flare-up management.
With B Corp formulas, made in France, AFNOR HACCP certified and 96% natural on average, Epycure is committed to ensuring that every ingredient has a scientific reason for being there.