Acne and PMOS

Acne can be one of the most visible and frustrating symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome, now also known as polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome or PMOS. Unlike an irregular period or a blood test result, skin changes are difficult to put out of your mind. You may see them every time you look in the mirror, apply make-up or join a video call. A flare can appear before an important event, remain painful for days and then leave behind redness, pigmentation or scarring long after the original spot has healed.

For some women, the most confusing part is that they seem to be doing everything “right”. They have bought the right skincare, removed foods from their diet, and followed endless online advice, but their skin still changes throughout the month.

This is because PMOS-related acne develops through an interaction between the sebaceous glands, sex hormones, insulin signalling, inflammation, and the skin microbiome.

Research suggests that acne affects around half of women with PMOS, although estimates vary between studies and populations. However, acne alone does not prove that somebody has PMOS, nor does it necessarily mean that their testosterone will be outside the laboratory range. The 2023 International Evidence-Based PCOS Guidelines describe acne on its own as a relatively weak predictor of biochemical hyperandrogenism. But it still deserves investigation, particularly when it appears alongside irregular periods, excess facial or body hair, thinning scalp hair or metabolic symptoms.

Androgens, Sebum and Skin Changes
Androgens are hormones that include testosterone, androstenedione and dihydrotestosterone, usually shortened to DHT. Everyone produces androgens, but women with PMOS may produce more of them or experience stronger effects from them.

The skin is not simply a passive surface waiting for hormones to arrive. It contains androgen receptors and enzymes that can convert weaker hormones into more active forms. One of these enzymes, 5-alpha-reductase, converts testosterone into DHT, which has a particularly strong effect on androgen receptors.

Sebaceous glands are especially sensitive to androgen signalling. These glands sit alongside hair follicles and produce sebum, the oily substance that helps lubricate and protect the skin. When androgen activity increases, the glands may grow larger and produce more sebum. This can explain why some women notice oily skin as well as acne. However, sebum is only one part of the story.

Acne develops when several processes meet inside the hair follicle. Skin cells may accumulate and obstruct the follicle opening. Sebum becomes trapped behind this blockage, creating a comedone, commonly known as a blackhead or whitehead. Changes in the follicle environment and in the behaviour of Cutibacterium acnes, a normal member of the skin microbiome, can then activate an inflammatory response. The result may be a red spot, pustule or deeper painful nodule.

This helps explain why aggressively drying the skin is not necessarily the answer. Harsh cleansers, scrubs and excessive exfoliation may irritate the skin barrier without addressing the hormonal signals affecting the sebaceous gland.

It also explains why a “normal” testosterone result does not always rule out a hormonal contribution. Some women may have sebaceous glands that are particularly sensitive to ordinary circulating androgen levels. Local conversion of hormones within the skin may also matter, while blood tests provide only a snapshot of what is circulating in the bloodstream.

The characteristic jawline breakout is often described as the defining sign of hormonal acne, but real-life patterns are not always so tidy. PMOS-related acne may occur around the chin and lower face, but it can also affect the cheeks, forehead, chest, shoulders and back. The distribution of spots should therefore be considered alongside the wider hormonal and metabolic picture, rather than used as a diagnosis by itself.

PMOS can also be associated with other visible skin changes. These may include increased oiliness, excess facial hair, scalp hair thinning and acanthosis nigricans. Acanthosis nigricans creates areas of darker, thicker or velvety-feeling skin, commonly around the neck, underarms or groin, and can be associated with insulin resistance.

Acne inflammation may also leave post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These are flat areas of altered colour rather than true indented or raised scars. Pigmentation can affect any skin tone, but it is generally more noticeable and may persist for longer in darker skin.

The Role of Insulin Resistance and Inflammation
Insulin is usually discussed in relation to blood sugar, but it also communicates with the ovaries, liver and skin. When cells become less responsive to insulin – which can happen in PMOS – the pancreas may produce more of it to keep blood glucose within a safe range. This is known as compensatory hyperinsulinaemia. It can occur even when a standard glucose or HbA1c result is still within range.

Higher insulin levels can encourage the ovaries to produce more androgens. Insulin may also reduce the liver’s production of sex hormone-binding globulin, or SHBG. SHBG normally binds some circulating testosterone. When SHBG is lower, a greater proportion of testosterone may remain biologically available to interact with tissues such as the skin.

Insulin and insulin-like growth factor 1, known as IGF-1, can also influence the sebaceous gland and the cells lining the follicle. Experimental and observational research suggests that IGF-1 signalling may promote sebaceous gland growth, sebum production, skin-cell proliferation and androgen synthesis.

This does not mean that everyone with acne has insulin resistance or that every breakout is caused by eating carbohydrates. It does help explain why acne, oily skin, irregular cycles and blood sugar difficulties can sometimes appear together in PMOS. It also means that the answer is not to remove all carbohydrates.

Highly restrictive eating can make meals nutritionally unbalanced, increase anxiety around food and become difficult to sustain. The international PMOS guideline concludes that there is no single diet composition that is superior for every woman with PMOS. Nutrition should be flexible, nutritionally adequate and tailored to the individual.

Rather than fearing individual foods, it is usually more helpful to look at the overall pattern. Regular meals containing protein, fibre, colourful vegetables, whole-food carbohydrates and beneficial fats can support metabolic health without requiring perfection. Movement, resistance training, sleep and stress support can also influence insulin sensitivity.

Inflammation provides another connection between PMOS and acne. Acne itself is an inflammatory skin condition, while PMOS is associated in many studies with altered inflammatory and oxidative-stress markers. Insulin resistance, androgen activity, body composition, sleep, stress and dietary pattern can all influence these pathways. However, it would be too simplistic to label someone as having “inflammatory PMOS” on the basis of acne alone.

The gut-skin axis is also receiving increasing research attention. The intestinal microbiome can interact with immune regulation, gut-barrier function and metabolic health, while the skin has its own distinct microbial ecosystem. Early research suggests possible differences in the gut microbiome of people with acne and PMOS, but this field is still developing. We do not yet have enough evidence to claim that a particular probiotic, stool test or “gut cleanse” will resolve hormonal acne.

Skin Symptoms Can Affect Confidence and Wellbeing
Acne is sometimes dismissed as a cosmetic concern, but its impact can extend far beyond appearance. It may affect what you wear, whether you go out without make-up, how comfortable you feel being photographed, and how confident you feel in relationships or at work. Some women spend considerable time checking their skin, covering blemishes, or avoiding social events during a flare.

Women with PMOS already have an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Research has found associations between acne and depressive symptoms within PMOS populations, while studies of acne more broadly consistently report effects on self-esteem and wellbeing.

The international PMOS guideline recommends that healthcare professionals recognise the impact of PMOS symptoms on quality of life and screen women with PMOS for anxiety and depression. NICE guidance also advises considering specialist referral when acne causes persistent pigmentation, scarring or significant psychological distress, regardless of its apparent physical severity.

Seeking help for acne is therefore not vain. Nor should you be expected to manage it through nutrition alone.

Persistent, painful, cystic or scarring acne should be discussed with your GP, pharmacist or dermatologist. Medical skincare and prescription treatments can be important, particularly when there is a risk of permanent scarring. A sudden onset of severe acne or rapidly worsening androgen-related symptoms also warrants medical assessment.

Nutrition and lifestyle support can sit alongside this care by exploring factors such as blood sugar regulation, dietary adequacy, inflammation, stress, sleep, digestive health and any pattern of restrictive eating. The aim is not to promise perfectly clear skin or blame you for every flare. It is to understand more of the hormonal and metabolic environment in which your skin is functioning.

If you have tried increasingly restrictive diets, complicated supplement plans or harsh skincare without understanding what may be driving your symptoms, a more individual assessment may help.

You can also read more about the relationship between PMOS and emotional wellbeing in our Food–Mood Connection blog.

At PMOS Clinics, we take time to consider your skin symptoms alongside your cycles, metabolic health, nutrition, stress, sleep and wider health history. This allows us to build a realistic plan that supports the whole person rather than focusing only on what is visible in the mirror.

Book a Skin and Hormone Assessment to explore the factors that may be contributing to your symptoms and receive personalised nutrition and lifestyle support.

This article is for educational purposes and does not provide medical diagnosis or treatment. Nutritional therapy works alongside, rather than instead of, care from your GP, dermatologist or other qualified medical professional. Please seek medical advice for severe, painful, rapidly worsening or scarring acne, persistent pigmentation, sudden changes in androgen-related symptoms, or concerns about your mental wellbeing.

Why is my ovulation all over the place?

Ovulation and Fertility Challenges in PMOS Explained

Often when I speak to women in the clinic for the first time, they come with feelings of having been dismissed. Many are told to “just lose weight” or are left with little explanation as to why their cycles are so unpredictable. And when it comes to fertility, the confusion and worry can be overwhelming. This blog takes a look at how PMOS affects ovulation and fertility, looking at the signs you may not be ovulating, and also evidence-based ways to support your body naturally. Whether you are looking to have a baby or not, regularly ovulating is super important for you health. Read on to find out why.

What is ovulation and why does it matter in PMOS?

Ovulation is the point in the menstrual cycle when an ovary releases a mature egg. In a typical cycle, this happens once a month, around the middle of the cycle. In PMOS, hormonal imbalances mean ovulation can often be irregular or absent entirely.

Ovulation matters not just for conception but for overall health. And this is key. Regular ovulation supports progesterone production, balances oestrogen, and plays a role in bone, heart, and uterine health. When ovulation is disrupted, many of these systems can be affected too.

How PMOS affects ovulation

PMOS is characterised by higher levels of insulin and androgens (male hormones like testosterone). Elevated insulin drives the ovaries to produce more androgens, which then interfere with normal follicle development. Instead of one follicle maturing and releasing an egg, several small follicles remain underdeveloped, which can lead to missed or irregular ovulation.

This is why cycles may be long, unpredictable, or sometimes appear regular but without ovulation actually taking place (anovulatory cycles).

Signs you may not be ovulating regularly

Are you wondering if this might be you? Clues that ovulation may be inconsistent include:

• Cycles that are longer than 35 days
• Periods that come unpredictably or are missed altogether
• Negative results on ovulation predictor kits (although these can often be unreliable in PMOS due to elevated LH)
• Lack of noticeable changes in cervical mucus or basal body temperature

Some women also bleed monthly without ovulation — highlighting just how confusing PMOS cycles can be without deeper investigation.

Fertility treatments vs lifestyle approaches

Medical options such as ovulation induction or assisted reproductive technology can be effective and are appropriate for many women with PMOS. Alongside these, nutrition and lifestyle changes are strongly recommended in the current guidelines as first-line therapy to support fertility. These are not quick fixes, but consistent approaches that create a better environment for ovulation to happen. And again – even if you’re not looking to have a baby right now (or ever!) regular ovulation should be considered a vital sign – it’s important for your health.

Balancing blood sugar

Insulin resistance is common in PMOS and disrupts ovulation by raising androgen levels. Stabilising blood sugar helps to reduce these effects. Research shows that balanced meals combining protein, healthy fats, and fibre-rich carbohydrates improve insulin sensitivity and ovulation frequency.

Some small changes you can include are:

• Always pairing carbohydrates with protein (e.g. apple with nut butter)
• Choosing pulses over refined carbs (e.g. swapping rice for lentils)
• Avoiding sugary drinks and choosing water or herbal teas instead
• Eating three good meals per day, and trying to avoid snackign

Key nutrients for ovulation

Certain nutrients have shown particular benefit in PMOS and fertility research:

• Myo-inositol: may improve insulin sensitivity and has been shown in trials to restore more regular ovulation.
• Vitamin D: often lower in women with PMOS; adequate levels are associated with better cycle regulation and fertility outcomes.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: support lower inflammation and may reduce androgen levels.
• Magnesium and zinc: both play important roles in insulin action, ovarian function, and egg development.

Food sources matter — oily fish, nuts, seeds, legumes, and green leafy vegetables all contribute these nutrients in a natural form.

Stress and fertility in PMOS

High stress levels can disrupt the delicate hormonal signalling needed for ovulation. Cortisol interferes with the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis and can also worsen insulin resistance and inflammation.

Mind–body approaches such as yoga, mindfulness, gentle walking, or breathwork have been shown to lower stress in women with PMOS and are linked with improved cycle regularity. Building daily practices to calm the nervous system is just as important as food and supplements.

Movement and exercise

Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, lowers androgens, and supports ovulation. Both aerobic activity (such as brisk walking or cycling) and resistance training (such as weights or bodyweight exercises) are effective.

Research shows that even modest increases in activity improve metabolic and reproductive outcomes in PMOS. Consistency matters more than intensity, and over-exercising can sometimes have the opposite effect. Aiming for regular, enjoyable movement is the best approach.

Sleep and circadian health

Poor sleep is increasingly recognised as a hidden driver of hormonal imbalance. And women with PMOS have been seen to have higher rates of sleep disturbance. Annoyingly, insufficient sleep worsens insulin resistance, inflammation, and stress hormones – so it’s a vicious cycle. 

Prioritising good sleep hygiene: a consistent bedtime, minimising screens in the evening, and creating a dark, cool sleep environment, can support more regular ovulation. Screening for sleep apnoea is also important where symptoms suggest it. Check with your GP or healthcare provider.

Gut health and inflammation

The gut microbiome is closely linked with both immune and hormonal health. Research shows women with PMOS often have less microbial diversity, which may contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance.

Supporting the gut through fibre diversity (vegetables, nuts, seeds, pulses), prebiotic foods (onion, garlic, asparagus), and fermented foods where tolerated may help reduce systemic inflammation and support ovulation.

Reducing endocrine disruptor exposure

Environmental chemicals such as BPA and phthalates can mimic or interfere with hormone signalling. Research suggests they may worsen symptoms in PMOS.

Practical steps include avoiding microwaving food in plastic, choosing glass or stainless-steel water bottles, and reducing use of fragranced personal care products where possible. These small changes may help reduce the overall hormonal burden.

Alcohol, smoking and ovulation

Both alcohol and smoking are linked with reduced fertility outcomes. Excess alcohol can disrupt cycles and ovulation, while smoking contributes to oxidative stress and poorer egg quality. Minimising or avoiding these is an important but often overlooked step for reproductive health in PMOS.

Anti-inflammatory dietary patterns

Low-grade inflammation is a recognised driver of PMOS symptoms. Diets rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fats, and lower in ultra-processed foods, support a more balanced inflammatory state.

The Mediterranean diet, with its emphasis on vegetables, legumes, fish, olive oil, and nuts, has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve metabolic and reproductive outcomes.

When to seek support

If you’ve been trying to conceive for over a year (or six months if you’re over 35), fertility investigations are recommended. But you don’t have to wait until then. If your cycles feel confusing, or if you’ve felt dismissed by healthcare professionals, getting evidence-based support sooner can make the process less overwhelming and give you practical steps forward.

Whether you’re hoping to conceive now or in the future, there are clear, evidence-backed ways to create better conditions for ovulation. And you don’t have to figure it out alone.  Why not get in touch and book a free call? We’d love to talk further with you.

PMOS Symptoms

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PMOS) affects an estimated 1 in 10 women in the UK, making it one of the most common hormone-related conditions in women of reproductive age. Worldwide, it is thought to affect more than 100 million women.

The name “PMOS” can be misleading, as not everyone with PMOS has cysts on their ovaries. In fact, around 20% of women without PMOS have cysts, while about 30% of women with PMOS do not.

So, what is it?
PMOS is often described as a complex endocrine condition involving hormonal and inflammatory factors that may disrupt the development of ovarian follicles. This can affect ovulation and menstrual cycles, and may be linked with changes in weight, skin health, fertility, and mood.

Research also suggests that women with PMOS may have a higher risk of developing metabolic complications, such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, altered cholesterol, and cardiovascular risk factors.

Some of the more common symptoms of PMOS include:

Irregular or absent periods
PMOS can disrupt ovulation, sometimes leading to irregular, infrequent, or absent periods. Hormonal changes, particularly higher androgen levels, may contribute to this.

Heavy or painful periods
When ovulation is irregular or absent, the endometrial lining may build up over time. This can result in heavier bleeding when periods do occur. Hormonal imbalances, such as altered oestrogen and androgen levels, may also contribute.

“Cysts” on the ovaries
In PMOS, hormone signalling that supports egg release (ovulation) can be disrupted. Follicles may remain underdeveloped, which can appear as “cysts” on an ultrasound. These are not true cysts but immature follicles.

Acne or oily skin
Higher androgen levels can increase sebum (oil) production in the skin, sometimes leading to clogged pores and acne. PMOS-related acne often appears on androgen-sensitive areas such as the jawline, chest, or back.

Hirsutism (unwanted hair growth)
Androgens can stimulate hair follicles, leading to thicker, darker hair in areas such as the face, chest, or abdomen.

Hair thinning or loss
Some women with PMOS experience hair loss from the scalp, often in a pattern similar to male hair loss. This is linked to follicle sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent form of testosterone.

Weight changes
Insulin resistance, common in PMOS, can make it harder for cells to respond to insulin effectively. This may lead to higher circulating insulin levels, which can increase appetite, promote fat storage, and make weight loss more difficult.

Mood changes
Low mood, anxiety, and irritability are commonly reported in PMOS. Hormonal influences, inflammation, and insulin resistance may all play a role, alongside the psychological impact of other symptoms such as acne, hirsutism, or fertility challenges.

Long-term health risks
Research indicates that women with PMOS may have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular concerns, and stroke. This is thought to be linked to factors such as insulin resistance, inflammation, and weight.

The positive news

While PMOS can feel overwhelming, research suggests that nutrition and lifestyle approaches may support symptom management and overall wellbeing.

If you’d like to explore how nutrition and lifestyle changes could support you, you’re welcome to book a free call.

Please note: we do not diagnose or treat PMOS. Nutrition and lifestyle support can complement medical care, but diagnosis and treatment should always be discussed with your GP.

How do I know if I have PMOS for sure?

If you suspect you may have PMOS, the most important step is to speak with your GP. PMOS is what’s called a diagnosis of exclusion – this means other conditions need to be ruled out first. Only a healthcare professional can make the diagnosis, so it’s important to get checked rather than relying on self-assessment.

Things to reflect on before seeing your GP

While you cannot diagnose PMOS yourself, thinking about your symptoms can help you prepare for the appointment. For example:

• If you’re not on hormonal contraception, are your periods irregular or sometimes absent?
• Do you experience excess hair growth on your face or body, or persistent acne?
• Have you noticed recent weight changes that don’t seem linked to diet or lifestyle?
• Do other women in your family have a PMOS diagnosis?

If you answered “yes” to some of these questions, it may be worth discussing them with your GP.

Keeping a symptoms diary

Before your appointment, it can be useful to keep a record of your symptoms. This can help you and your GP look for patterns. You might want to note:

• Period dates, cycle length, and how heavy or light they are
• Whether ovulation is absent (if you’re tracking with ovulation kits or trying to conceive)
• Weight changes
• Excess hair growth (face, chest, stomach, thighs, etc.)
• Thinning hair on the head
• Acne or oily skin
• Skin changes such as tags or dark, velvety patches (known as acanthosis nigricans)
• Mood changes, anxiety, low mood, or worsening PMS
• Fertility challenges or recurrent miscarriage
• Fatigue or low energy

What guidelines say about diagnosis

According to current NICE guidance:

In adults (over 20 years old), a diagnosis of PMOS may be considered if two out of the following three are present, once other causes have been ruled out:

• Signs of high androgen levels (either clinical or shown in blood tests)
• Ovulatory dysfunction (irregular or absent periods)
• Polycystic ovarian appearance on ultrasound

Or, put more simply:

• A blood test showing raised androgens
• Irregular or absent periods
• Multiple “cysts” on ovaries visible on ultrasound

In adolescents (under 20 years old), diagnosis is based on hormone levels and irregular or absent periods. Ultrasound is not usually recommended at this stage, as it is not considered reliable for diagnosis in younger women.

Adolescents with some PMOS features, but who do not meet the full diagnostic criteria, may be considered at increased risk. Guidelines suggest reassessment at or before full reproductive maturity (approximately eight years after the first period).

Depending on your age and symptoms, your GP may recommend blood tests and/or an ultrasound scan as part of the diagnostic process.

Important note
Nutrition and lifestyle approaches can support general wellbeing if you have PMOS symptoms, but they cannot replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek advice from your GP if you are concerned about your symptoms.

What is PMOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PMOS) affects an estimated 1 in 10 women in the UK, making it one of the most common hormone-related conditions in women of reproductive age and a leading cause of ovulatory infertility. Worldwide, it’s thought to affect over 100 million women.

The name “PMOS” can be misleading. It’s actually a collection of symptoms that may have different underlying drivers – and not everyone with PMOS has cysts on their ovaries. In fact, around 20% of women without PMOS have cysts, while about 30% of women with PMOS do not.

So, what is it?
PMOS is often described as a complex endocrine condition involving hormonal and inflammatory changes that can disrupt the development of ovarian follicles. This can lead to delayed or absent ovulation, resulting in irregular or missed periods. In practice, PMOS may affect menstrual cycles, weight regulation, fertility, and other aspects of health.

Research suggests women with PMOS may also have a higher risk of metabolic complications such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, altered cholesterol (dyslipidaemia), and potentially cardiovascular concerns.

Some of the more common symptoms of PMOS include:

• Insulin resistance
• Elevated androgens (or ‘male hormones’)
• Mid-cycle or ovulatory pain
• Acne or oily skin
• Unwanted hair growth on the face or body (hirsutism)
• Male-pattern hair thinning or hair loss
• Unwanted weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Mood changes such as low mood, anxiety or irritability
• Sleep issues, including sleep apnoea

What are androgens?

Androgens are hormones such as testosterone, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). It’s normal to have some androgens – they support mood, libido, and bone health.

In PMOS, higher-than-average androgen levels (hyperandrogenism) are common. This is linked with difficulties ovulating, irregular periods, weight changes, unwanted hair growth, and acne. Hyperandrogenism is therefore considered both a clinical feature and a contributing factor in PMOS.

Factors which may contribute to PMOS

Family history

• PMOS can run in families. If a close female relative has PMOS, your likelihood of developing it may be higher.
• Genes may increase susceptibility, while environment and lifestyle may influence how strongly these genes are expressed.

Insulin and blood sugar balance

• High insulin levels may reduce sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), leaving more free testosterone available and contributing to symptoms.
• Insulin can also stimulate the ovaries and pituitary gland, influencing androgen production.
• Diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, combined with other factors such as stress, smoking, alcohol, sleep deprivation, some medications, and environmental exposures, may contribute to insulin resistance over time.

Inflammation

• Chronic low-grade inflammation is common in PMOS and may influence ovarian function and androgen production.
• Visceral fat (fat stored around the abdomen) can secrete inflammatory molecules, which in turn may worsen insulin resistance, creating a cycle that fuels symptoms.
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol, ultra-processed foods, and chronic stress can add to overall inflammatory load.
• Gut health, infections, autoimmune activity, and food intolerances may also play a role in some cases.

Adrenal androgens and stress

• The adrenal glands produce stress hormones and some androgens. In PMOS, adrenal androgens may account for 20–30% of the elevated hormone levels seen.
• Ongoing stress may therefore play a role in symptom expression, even in women who are not insulin resistant or do not have ovarian cysts.
• Research suggests cortisol regulation may be altered in PMOS, potentially contributing to changes in weight, appetite, menstrual cycles, and immunity.

Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals

• Certain environmental chemicals, sometimes called xenoestrogens (such as BPA in plastics), may mimic or interfere with hormone activity.
• Studies suggest they may contribute to insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormone imbalance, although more research is needed.

Post-pill hormone changes

• Some people notice PMOS-like symptoms after stopping the contraceptive pill. This does not mean the pill causes PMOS, but rather that hormonal shifts can temporarily mimic or unmask symptoms. PMOS itself is a longer-term condition with complex causes.

In reality, PMOS is often the result of a combination of these factors, with different drivers in different individuals.

Next steps

If you’d like to learn more about PMOS and explore nutrition and lifestyle approaches that may support your symptoms, you’re welcome to book a free call here.

Please note: we do not diagnose or treat PMOS. Nutrition and lifestyle support can complement medical care, but it is important to consult your GP for diagnosis, medical advice, and management.

Why do we get acne with PMOS?

In a UK-based study, over 50% of women with PMOS reported experiencing acne, and highlighting its effect on their overall wellbeing. This compares to only 21% of British women without PMOS stating that they suffer with acne.

If you have PMOS, this might not be coming as much of a surprise to you! So, why do we women with PMOS suffer more with our skin than the average British woman?

This comes down to our hormone balance again. PMOS is an endocrine (hormonal) condition, and we see that most women with PMOS have higher androgen (or ‘male’ hormone) levels than women without PMOS.   

The higher androgen levels in PMOS can stimulate overproduction of sebum in the skin which can clog pores causing spots to form. Additionally, the low-grade inflammation consistent with PMOS can make the acne worse and more painful, sometimes turning into cystic acne, the type of acne that causes deep, painful bumps. It also tends to flare up when stress is involved, or around the time of our periods. 

PMOS-related acne is often found in areas of the body that are more androgen-sensitive, such as around the jawline, chin, chest, and back. This is because these areas have a higher density of androgen receptors, which respond to the higher levels of androgens more intensely. This leads to excess sebum production, as well as increased keratin production in the skin, which can clog pores and foster acne. The back and chest are particularly rich in oil glands, hence why those areas can be especially problematic.

The good news is that any of the dietary changes you make with your PMOS to help reduce androgens will then, in turn, help reduce the prevalence of acne that you’re suffering with.

Check out my blog about how to eat healthily for your skin. And, if you’d like to chat further, why not book a call? One of our one-to-one targeted programmes could be right for you.