🩸 what your skin is telling you

Good morning. It’s Saturday, June 28, and today we’re going beneath the surface - literally.

If hormonal acne is haunting your jawline like a bad ex, it’s time we had a chat. Because PCOS acne? It’s not a hygiene issue. It’s a hormone issue.

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The Essentials

Acne, Adaptogens & Your Androgens

You’re cleansing, toning, and exfoliating like it’s a full-time job—and yet the cystic acne keeps coming back. Sound familiar?

Here’s the deal: PCOS acne isn’t about dirty skin. It’s about androgens—male hormones like testosterone and DHEA-S that are often elevated in women with PCOS. These hormones make your oil glands go into overdrive and cause skin cells to stick together, clogging your pores and creating the perfect storm for breakouts.

Most hormonal acne shows up along the jawline, chin, and cheeks. It’s deep, inflamed, and painful—not your average teenage forehead zit.

The good news? You can manage it naturally from the inside out.

What to Know

Balancing androgens takes time, but here’s what helps:

• Spearmint tea – Studies show 1–2 cups a day may lower free testosterone and reduce acne.

• DIM (Diindolylmethane) – A compound found in cruciferous veggies that helps metabolize excess estrogen and androgens.

• Zinc – Reduces inflammation and may lower DHT levels.

• Adaptogens like ashwagandha – Help regulate cortisol, which can influence oil production and inflammation.

And don’t forget blood sugar—insulin resistance can increase androgen levels, which can worsen acne. Yep, it’s all connected.

Myth Buster

“If I wash my face more, my acne will go away.”
False. Over-washing can damage your skin barrier and trigger more oil production, making acne worse. Hormonal acne isn’t about dirt—it’s about what’s going on underneath.

Supplement Spotlight

Spearmint tea: Naturally anti-androgenic and delicious iced or hot. Try sipping 1–2 cups daily.

DIM: Best taken with meals and always consult your provider if you’re on other hormone-supporting meds. Start slow—it’s potent.

Your skin is talking. You’re just learning the language.
Hormonal acne can be frustrating—but it’s also one of your body’s clearest signals. When you support your hormones, your skin will reflect that.

You’re glowing already,
The PCOS Queens Team 💜

Recipe of the Week

Summer Greek Salad

This Greek Salad recipe from Julia’s Album is a classic Mediterranean dish made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. It’s tossed in a simple homemade dressing of olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and oregano. Refreshing, colorful, and ready in minutes—perfect as a side or light meal! Full Recipe Available HERE.

PCOS Confessions

“I used to dread grocery shopping. Now I walk in with a list, a plan, and zero fear of the carb aisle.”
— Danica, 30

“I swapped dairy lattes for oat milk and didn’t think I could survive… but my skin says thank you.”
— Lily, 34

“Learning about insulin resistance made everything click. I’m not broken — I just needed the right map.”
— Nadine, 33

^{Why PCOS Queens? I want to save you the energy and time in researching and instead give you the shortcut to managing PCOS. I want to help you avoid feeling self-conscious and thinking you have to accept how things are. I want to help you overcome the worst of your symptoms, feel empowered and discover your inner strength. I want to hand you the keys to take back control of your life.}

*Disclaimer: Every women is unique, and this information is provided for educational purposes only. I share summarized research data and personal experience, but this should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance on your specific health needs.