Hormonal vs. Bacterial Acne: What’s the Difference and How to Treat Each
Hormonal vs. Bacterial Acne: What’s the Difference and How to Treat Each
Acne isn’t the same for everyone. Some people deal with breakouts that clear up quickly, while others notice recurring flare-ups during stressful times or around their monthly cycle. That’s because different types of acne exist, and two of the most common are hormonal acne and bacterial acne. Learning to tell them apart is essential if you want to treat them effectively.
At Blush & Bloom, we focus on skincare that works with your skin instead of against it. Here’s a clear breakdown of how hormonal and bacterial acne differ, what causes them, and the best ways to care for each.
Hormonal Acne
Hormonal acne develops when changes in hormone levels—particularly androgens like testosterone—trigger excess oil production. This extra oil clogs pores, creating the perfect environment for breakouts.
Typical signs of hormonal acne include:
- Breakouts that coincide with your menstrual cycle
- Pimples concentrated around the chin, jawline, and lower cheeks
- Painful, deep cyst-like blemishes instead of small surface spots
- Flare-ups linked to stress, poor sleep, or other internal changes
Bacterial Acne
Bacterial acne is caused when the skin’s natural bacteria (C. acnes) multiply inside blocked pores. This leads to inflammation, redness, and visible pus-filled pimples.
Typical signs of bacterial acne include:
- Breakouts appearing anywhere on the face or body
- Red, irritated spots or inflamed pustules
- Presence of whiteheads and blackheads
- Worsening acne when skin isn’t cleansed properly
Key Differences Between the Two
| Factor | Hormonal Acne | Bacterial Acne |
|---|---|---|
| Main Cause | Fluctuating hormone levels | Bacterial growth in clogged pores |
| Appearance | Deep, painful cysts on chin and jawline | Red, inflamed, or pus-filled pimples |
| Pattern | Cyclical (linked to periods or stress) | Can appear at any time |
| Treatment Focus | Regulating oil and hormones | Reducing bacteria and keeping skin clean |
Treating Hormonal Acne
Since hormonal acne is tied to internal factors, treatment often goes beyond surface-level skincare.
Ways to manage hormonal acne:
- Use ingredients like salicylic acid or retinoids to clear clogged pores
- Choose oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers
- Calm irritation with niacinamide-based serums
- Support your skin through stress management, healthy meals, and quality sleep
- Speak with a dermatologist about options such as hormonal therapy or prescribed medication if breakouts are severe
Treating Bacterial Acne
Bacterial acne usually improves with targeted skincare routines that focus on keeping pores clear and controlling bacterial growth.
Ways to manage bacterial acne:
- Cleanse with formulas containing benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil
- Exfoliate a few times a week with gentle acids (AHA/BHA)
- Avoid washing too frequently, which can damage the skin barrier
- Stick to fragrance-free, non-comedogenic skincare products
- For stubborn cases, dermatologists may recommend topical or oral antibiotics
Final Thoughts
Not all acne is the same. Hormonal acne and bacterial acne may look similar at first glance, but their causes and treatments differ. Recognizing which type you’re dealing with can help you choose the right routine and avoid unnecessary irritation.
At Blush & Bloom, we’ve curated products that respect your skin barrier while addressing breakouts effectively. Because clear, healthy skin should never come at the cost of comfort.