Navigating the world of skincare is never easy, especially when hormonal changes come into play. For many women, skin issues like acne don’t just end after adolescence—they can persist or even resurface later in life, often related to hormonal fluctuations. In the Heal Your Skin From Within podcast, Jill Therese, a certified nutrition consultant and the creator of The Clear Code program, shares her insights on healing acne by addressing its root causes, especially through nutrition and hormonal balance. If you’re ready to take your skincare journey to the next level, this blog post breaks down the key takeaways from Jill’s conversation, integrating expert advice, medical research, and practical steps toward clearer, healthier skin.

Hormones and Skin Health: A Complex Relationship

When it comes to skin health, hormones are often overlooked as a driving force. Jill Therese explains that hormonal acne is a common issue, particularly among women transitioning off birth control or entering perimenopause. According to her, “Hormonal fluctuations are a huge factor, especially when estrogen and progesterone levels begin to shift.” Research supports her claim—hormonal fluctuations are one of the primary contributors to adult acne. A study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that women are more likely to experience hormonal acne than men, especially around their menstrual cycle or during significant hormonal shifts like pregnancy or menopause. Additionally, elevated levels of androgens (male hormones, which are also present in women) can stimulate sebaceous glands, leading to increased oil production and clogged pores. This explains why women experiencing perimenopause, a time when hormonal levels are often fluctuating, may notice a resurgence of acne. Understanding this connection between hormones and skin health is crucial for those seeking to address their acne in a lasting, meaningful way.

The Impact of Nutrition on Skin Health

While hormones play a pivotal role in acne, Jill emphasizes that nutrition is just as important. “If your gut isn’t healthy, your skin won’t be either,” she explains on the Heal Your Skin From Within podcast. Research from the Journal of Dermatology supports this, suggesting that a diet rich in processed foods and low in antioxidants can contribute to inflammation, which in turn worsens acne. Jill recommends focusing on a balanced diet that supports gut health, such as incorporating fiber-rich vegetables, healthy fats, and omega-3 fatty acids to combat inflammation. The connection between gut health and skin is well-established, with studies showing that an imbalanced gut microbiome can exacerbate skin conditions like acne. A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology found that probiotics, found in fermented foods or supplements, can help restore gut balance and potentially improve acne. By improving digestion and gut function, individuals may notice fewer skin breakouts as they address internal imbalances that manifest externally.

Hormone Therapy: A Solution for Acne and Skin Health

For those struggling with persistent acne due to hormonal imbalances, Jill suggests considering Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). BHRT is designed to replenish hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone that may be out of balance during perimenopause or menopause, which are key times when women may experience acne resurgence. “With BHRT, we can address those hormonal imbalances directly, leading to clearer skin and overall well-being,” Jill explains on the podcast. Several studies indicate that BHRT can effectively alleviate many symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as acne, hot flashes, and sleep disturbances. A study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology shows that BHRT significantly improves skin texture, moisture, and elasticity by restoring hormonal equilibrium. This can be particularly beneficial for women who find that their skin health deteriorates during hormonal transitions.

Simple Skincare Tips: Less Is More

Jill also emphasizes that the key to clearer skin often lies in simplifying your skincare routine. “Many people overcomplicate things with harsh treatments, but your skin needs balance,” she notes. According to her, overuse of topical products can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, making it more prone to irritation and breakouts. The American Academy of Dermatology advises a gentle skincare routine that includes a mild cleanser, a non-comedogenic moisturizer, and sunscreen to protect from harmful UV rays. When it comes to treating acne, Jill suggests using natural, anti-inflammatory ingredients like tea tree oil or aloe vera, which can calm skin without causing further irritation.

Mind-Body Connection: Reducing Stress for Better Skin

Stress is another significant contributor to skin issues, as it can lead to an increase in cortisol, a hormone that can trigger breakouts. Jill advises managing stress through mindfulness practices, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Research from the Journal of Investigative Dermatology has shown that high levels of cortisol can exacerbate acne and other skin conditions by promoting inflammation. Additionally, regular exercise can help manage stress and improve circulation, which supports skin health by delivering oxygen and nutrients to skin cells. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that regular physical activity can also reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, which may contribute to skin issues caused by stress.

Heal Your Skin from Within

The journey to clear, healthy skin doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the profound connection between hormones, nutrition, and stress, women can approach their skincare in a holistic and effective way. As Jill Therese shares on the Heal Your Skin From Within podcast, it’s important to address the root causes of acne—whether that’s hormonal imbalances, poor nutrition, or stress—instead of relying solely on external treatments. For those seeking personalized support in balancing hormones and improving skin health, Thrivelab offers tailored hormone therapy and wellness services designed to guide you through every step of your health journey. Whether you’re struggling with acne, hormonal shifts, or other health concerns, Thrivelab’s expert team can help you navigate these changes with confidence and clarity. Schedule a consultation today and start your journey to clear skin from within.