PCOS and Your Skin

How PCOS Affects Your Skin

• Acne:

PCOS often manifests in persistent and stubborn acne, particularly along the jawline, chin, and cheeks. The primary drivers include:

1. Elevated Testosterone: Increased androgen levels stimulate sebum (oil) production, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
2. Insulin Resistance: High insulin levels exacerbate androgen production, compounding acne severity.
3. Chronic Inflammation: Low-grade systemic inflammation common in PCOS triggers inflammatory acne.

• Hirsutism:

Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and back is a common symptom due to elevated dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, a potent androgen that stimulates hair follicles in unwanted areas.

• Skin Discolouration:

Acanthosis Nigricans, dark, velvety patches of skin, often occur in PCOS due to insulin resistance. Common areas include the neck, underarms, and groin.

• Hair Thinning:

Male-pattern hair thinning or androgenic alopecia occurs due to the effect of DHT on scalp hair follicles, leading to progressive hair loss.

Causes and Mechanisms Behind PCOS-Related Skin Issues

• Hormonal Imbalances:
  

1. Androgens - Elevated testosterone and DHT increase sebum production and clogged pores.
2. Oestrogen Dominance - Imbalances between oestrogen and progesterone can exacerbate acne, especially during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

• IInsulin Resistance:
  

Insulin resistance, a hallmark of PCOS, not only disrupts metabolic processes but also signals the ovaries to produce more androgens, worsening acne and hirsutism.

• Chronic Inflammation:
  

Systemic inflammation increases oxidative stress, worsening skin conditions such as acne, hirsutism, and pigmentation.

Managing PCOS Symptoms: A Holistic Approach

Balancing Hormones

• Dietary Adjustments:

1. Follow a low-glycaemic, anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, and lean proteins.
2. Limit refined carbohydrates and sugar to stabilise insulin levels.

• Supplements:

1. Zinc: Reduces acne and supports hormone regulation.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Balance the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, reducing inflammation.
3. Vitamin D: Supports overall hormonal health and immunity.

• Lifestyle Changes:

1. Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and reduces inflammation.
2. Stress management techniques like mindfulness and yoga help regulate cortisol and the HPA axis.

Improving Gut Health

• Address gut dysbiosis and leaky gut syndrome with probiotics and prebiotic-rich foods.
• Eliminate potential dietary triggers such as dairy, gluten, and processed foods, which may contribute to inflammation and acne.

Optimising Detoxification

• Support liver health with cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale.
• Avoid environmental toxins such as xenoestrogens found in plastics and personal care products.

Skin-Specific Treatments

• Topical Solutions:

1. To manage acne, use non-comedogenic skincare products that include salicylic acid or retinoids.
2. Incorporate sunscreen daily to protect against pigmentation and UV damage.

• Professional Treatments:

Chemical peels and laser therapies can target acne scars, pigmentation, and unwanted hair.

PCOS-Related Acne: A Functional Medicine Perspective

Root Causes of Acne in PCOS

• Hormonal Imbalance: Elevated androgens and estrogen dominance lead to sebum overproduction.
• Gut Inflammation: Dysbiosis can trigger systemic inflammation, manifesting as acne.
• Insulin Resistance: Excess insulin signals increased testosterone, directly impacting skin health.
• Dietary Triggers: Foods like sugar, dairy, and gluten exacerbate inflammation and acne.

Protocol for Clearer Skin

• Heal the Gut: Incorporate probiotics and eliminate inflammatory foods.
• Balance Hormones: Work with a health coach to optimise hormonal health through personalised supplementation.
• Reduce Inflammation: Emphasise anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish, turmeric, and leafy greens.
• Regulate Blood Sugar: Adopt a low-glycaemic diet.
• Optimise Sleep and Stress Management: Prioritise quality sleep and engage in relaxation.

Supporting Overall Health

Functional medicine focuses on addressing the root causes of PCOS symptoms, empowering women to regain hormonal balance and skin health through:

• Tailored nutritional plans
• Targeted supplementation
• A holistic approach to stress, sleep, and gut health

Skin Renewal’s Doctor-Led Approach to PCOS and Skin Health

PCOS affects much more than fertility; its impact on skin and overall health can significantly affect quality of life. By addressing the root causes through dietary and lifestyle changes, supplementation, and professional treatments, women can manage PCOS symptoms effectively and achieve lasting improvements in their skin and body health.

At Skin Renewal, we understand PCOS's profound impact on the skin and overall well-being. Our doctor-led approach is tailored to address the root causes of skin concerns such as acne, pigmentation, and hirsutism. By focusing on holistic solutions—including hormonal balance, gut health, and inflammation control