Not-so-fun truth: Sebum manufacturing is managed by hormones, particularly androgens, board-certified dermatologist and founding father of NicholsMD of Greenwhich Kim Nichols, M.D., FAAD tells mbg. Androgens trigger the enlargement and overstimulation of the sebaceous glands discovered within the hair follicles, she explains. Then, this sebum snatches up useless pores and skin cells and clogs the pore, leading to a breakout. 

Estrogens have the alternative impact, that means they inhibit the secretion of androgens, modulate genes concerned within the progress of the sebaceous gland and inhibit their perform. The exercise of the sebaceous gland, subsequently, depends upon the estrogen and androgen ratio1—which is why many individuals think about contraception tablets containing estrogen as a doable type of remedy. 

You’ll usually discover hormonal breakouts on the chin and alongside the jawline, typically taking place onto the neck as nicely. Again and chest pimples can be linked to hormone imbalances. Some breakouts may be pustules and papules (infected zits with a white head), whereas others may be cystic and below the pores and skin. 

“Cystic pimples are deeper, bigger, and may happen when the micro organism, sebum, and useless pores and skin cells develop into trapped beneath the floor of the pores and skin and may trigger a big and painful bump,” Nichols explains. And sure, you possibly can have a mixture of each.