5 Skin Symptoms of PCOS: Causes, Treatment, and Management Tips

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) ranks as one of the most widespread hormone conditions in women, with about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age affected. While people often link PCOS to irregular menstrual cycles and trouble getting pregnant, it shows up in different ways on the skin, including skin symptoms of PCOS like pimples, acne, excessive body hair (commonly called ‘PCOS hair’), and dark skin spots, which can upset those affected. 

This article will look into what causes these skin problems in PCOS, how to treat them, and ways to handle them. We aim to give you full advice on how to feel good about yourself again and take charge of your skin’s health.

Understanding PCOS and Its Impact on Skin Health

What Is PCOS?

PCOS is a complex hormonal condition characterized by irregular ovulation, hyperandrogenism (excess male hormones), and polycystic ovaries (cysts on the ovaries). But despite its name – not every woman with PCOS has these cysts, and doctors still aren’t sure what the syndrome’s exact causes are. However, genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors significantly influence its development

PCOS doesn’t just affect your fertility. It can also impact your metabolism, heart health, and skin. Changes in your skin are often the first noticeable signs of hormonal imbalances. This shows how your inner health is tied to your external appearance.

How PCOS Affects the Body and Skin

PCOS disrupts the fine balance of hormones by increasing androgen levels. Women always have these male hormones, but in PCOS, they become disproportionately high and trigger a cascade of PCOS skin symptoms:

• Overactive sebaceous (oil) glands lead to oily skin and acne.
• Increased hair follicle stimulation, causing unwanted hair growth (hirsutism).
• Insulin resistance promotes the development of dark skin patches (Acanthosis nigricans) and skin tags.

The dermatological signs of PCOS have an effect not only on a person’s physical appearance but also on the self-esteem and the psychological health of the patient which makes their management a very important thing to do in PCOS treatment. Tools like the Mira Hormone Monitor can help track hormonal fluctuations and provide insights to guide treatment.

How hormones affect our skin

Hormones play a major role in how we feel and how our skin behaves throughout the month. For women with PCOS, fluctuating levels of hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and androgens can affect more than just skin appearance. The Mira study that tracked women’s hormone levels showed that as estrogen rises during the fertile window, many participants reported their skin looking “glowy” and brighter. This period is when self-perception and skin health tend to improve, showing how much our hormones impact how we feel about our skin.

However, during other phases of the cycle, particularly the follicular phase when hormone levels are lower, many participants reported having the worst skin. Over half of them reported feeling unhappy with their skin condition during this time. Hormonal fluctuations, especially the rise of androgen levels, can make acne worse and cause dryness or irritation. This highlights the importance of tracking your hormones, as knowing when these changes happen can help you anticipate skin flare-ups and manage your skincare routine accordingly.

To help manage these hormone-driven skin changes, products like Mira Wands can be used to track hormone levels at home, giving you real-time insights into how your body is fluctuating throughout the cycle. By using the Mira App, you can log symptoms, track your skin’s condition, and see how your hormones impact your appearance and overall well-being. This kind of tracking can help you better understand your skin, anticipate changes, and take action with targeted skincare or treatments that align with your cycle.

Common Skin-Related Symptoms in PCOS

Hormonal disorders and metabolic derangement cause skin problems in PCOS. It is essential to understand these symptoms first before they can be efficiently treated.

Acne

Due to hormonal inflations associated with PCOS, acne, which is mostly cystic in nature, is usually localized along the jawline, chin, and cheeks. PCOS-related acne is different from adolescent-type acne and usually persists into adulthood with aggravations during periods and even during stress.

Oily Skin and Enlarged Pores

Excess androgen production increases sebum secretion, leaving skin greasy and prone to clogged pores. Over time, these pores stretch and enlarge, becoming more visible.

Hirsutism

Excessive hair growth in male-pattern areas (face, chest, abdomen, back) affects about 70% of women with PCOS. The psychological toll of hirsutism can be significant, requiring a combination of medical and cosmetic interventions for management.

Acanthosis Nigricans

This condition results in dark, velvety patches of skin, typically in high-friction areas like the neck, armpits, and groin. Acanthosis nigricans often signals underlying insulin resistance, a hallmark of PCOS.

Skin Tags

Small, benign growths can appear anywhere on the skin but often appear in areas of friction, such as the neck, underarms, and groin. While harmless, they can be a cosmetic nuisance or cause discomfort.

Acne and PCOS

Why PCOS Causes Acne

The primary cause behind PCOS acne is androgen excess. These hormones stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil, clog pores, and create an ideal environment for bacterial growth (Cutibacterium acnes). 

Hormonal fluctuations during stress, menstrual cycles, or lifestyle changes can exacerbate acne in women with PCOS, making it challenging to manage without targeted interventions.

Types of Acne Common in PCOS

• Cystic Acne: Large, painful, pus-filled nodules deep under the skin, often leaving scars if untreated.
• Papulopustular Acne: Red, inflamed pimples that may be pus-filled.
• Comedonal Acne: Non-inflammatory blackheads and whiteheads caused by clogged pores.

Effective Acne Management Tips for PCOS

Hormonal Treatments:

• Birth control pills containing estrogen and progestin regulate hormones and reduce androgen levels.
• Anti-androgens like spironolactone block androgen receptors, reducing sebum production and breakouts.

Topical Treatments:

• Retinoids help normalize skin cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.
• Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid target bacterial growth and inflammation.

Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Follow a low-glycemic diet to minimize insulin spikes.
• Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like yoga or mindfulness.

Advanced Procedures:

• Dermatological treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy can address stubborn acne and scarring.

Oily Skin and Enlarged Pores

How Enlarged Pores Develop with PCOS

Overactive sebaceous glands lead to increased oil production, which clogs and stretches pores over time. The combination of oil, dead skin cells, and debris exacerbates the appearance of enlarged pores.

Skincare Tips to Control Oil and Minimize Pores

Daily Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser with salicylic acid to remove excess oil without stripping the skin.

Oil-Free Products: Opt for non-comedogenic makeup and skincare products.

Exfoliation: Regular chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs can unclog and refine pores.

Professional Interventions: Dermatological treatments like laser resurfacing or microneedling can improve skin texture and reduce pore size.

Hirsutism: Unwanted Hair Growth

Understanding Hirsutism in PCOS

Hirsutism occurs due to heightened androgen levels stimulating hair follicles in areas typically associated with male-pattern hair growth. This symptom can be particularly distressing, impacting social interactions and self-image.

Treatment and Hair Removal Options

Medical Management:

• Anti-androgens like spironolactone and finasteride reduce excessive hair growth.
• Combination birth control pills regulate hormones effectively.

Cosmetic Solutions:

• Laser Hair Removal: A semi-permanent solution for reducing hair growth.
• Electrolysis: Permanently removes individual hair follicles through electrical currents.

Temporary Methods:

• Shaving, waxing, and depilatory creams offer quick but short-term relief.

Dark Patches: Acanthosis Nigricans

What Causes Acanthosis Nigricans in PCOS?

Insulin resistance triggers the overproduction of keratinocytes, leading to thickened, hyperpigmented skin in high-friction areas. These patches often signal the need for metabolic intervention.

Remedies and Treatments for Acanthosis Nigricans

Topical solutions such as creams containing retinoids, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid can effectively lighten dark patches on the skin. These ingredients work by promoting cell turnover and reducing pigmentation, making them a popular choice for addressing discoloration. For more severe cases, medical interventions may be necessary, such as treating insulin resistance with medications like metformin, which can often reverse the skin changes associated with this condition.

In addition to topical and medical treatments, adopting healthy lifestyle changes plays a critical role in managing skin discoloration. Regular exercise and a balanced diet improve insulin sensitivity, which can help reduce the severity of symptoms over time. Combining these approaches creates a holistic strategy to address the underlying causes and visible effects of skin changes.

Skin Tags and PCOS

Why Skin Tags Are Common in PCOS

Skin tags develop due to friction, hormonal changes, and metabolic dysfunction. While they pose no health risks, they can sometimes cause discomfort.

How to Safely Remove Skin Tags

DIY Options: Over-the-counter creams or adhesive bandages can remove small tags over time.

Professional Removal: Dermatologists can use cryotherapy, cauterization (remove abnormal tissue using heat), or surgical excision for instant results.

Prevention Tips and Medical Options

To prevent skin friction and irritation, wearing loose and comfortable clothing can be beneficial. Such choices reduce pressure on the skin, helping to minimize friction-related issues, especially in areas prone to chafing. Managing insulin resistance is also crucial and can be achieved through a combination of lifestyle modifications, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, along with medications when necessary.

Additionally, supplements tailored for managing PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) can support hormonal balance and address underlying causes of skin changes. Incorporating these preventive measures and medical options can significantly improve skin health and overall well-being.

Managing Skin Symptoms of PCOS Holistically

Diet and Lifestyle Changes for Skin Health

PCOS Diet:

• Focus on whole, healthy, fresh foods such as vegetables, low-fat meats, and olive oils.
• Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric, fatty fish, and green tea.

Exercise:

• Moderate-intensity exercises such as walking, yoga, or swimming are activities that positively affect insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance

PCOS Supplements:

• PCOS supplements like, for example, Mira PCOS supplements, can help balance hormones, enhance insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being. They may relieve symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, and weight gain, working alongside a healthy lifestyle.

Topical and Prescription Treatments

Over-the-counter creams containing active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids can effectively address specific skin concerns like acne or discoloration. These products work by reducing inflammation, unclogging pores, and promoting skin renewal.

For more persistent issues linked to hormonal imbalances, prescription medications such as spironolactone can be particularly beneficial. This treatment targets the underlying hormonal causes, helping to regulate oil production and improve overall skin condition.

Seeking Professional Guidance

Dermatologists, endocrinologists, and gynecologists can work together to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root causes of skin issues in PCOS.

Frequently Asked Questions