Hormonal Acne Treatment : A Functional Medicine and Acupuncture Approach
Cystic acne, especially along the chin and jawline, is often linked to hormonal imbalance and internal inflammation rather than just skin surface issues. Many patients try topical treatments or medications without lasting improvement because the underlying causes are not fully addressed.
At NYC Total Health – Integrative Functional Medicine & Acupuncture, we take a more comprehensive approach to treating persistent acne.
A recent patient came to our clinic with ongoing cystic acne concentrated around the lower face and jawline. This pattern is frequently associated with hormonal fluctuations, stress physiology, and metabolic imbalance.
To better understand the internal drivers, we performed a DUTCH Complete hormone test, which evaluates:
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estrogen and progesterone balance
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androgen activity
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cortisol and stress hormone patterns
This type of testing helps identify hormonal patterns that may contribute to recurring breakouts.
Treatment included:
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Acupuncture therapy, initially weekly and later spaced out as the skin improved
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A targeted dietary protocol to stabilize blood sugar and reduce inflammatory triggers
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Functional medicine supplements to support hormone metabolism, gut health, and detox pathways
Over time, inflammation decreased and the number of cystic lesions dropped significantly. As hormonal balance and metabolic function improved, the skin gradually cleared.
The photos below show the patient before treatment and after completing the protocol.
For individuals dealing with persistent acne, evaluating hormonal patterns and internal health can sometimes reveal factors that standard skincare treatments may miss.
Patients interested in hormonal acne treatment, acupuncture for acne, or functional medicine evaluation in New York City can learn more by contacting our clinic.
NYC Total Health – Integrative Functional Medicine & Acupuncture
224 West 35th Street
New York, NY 10001
BEFORE AND AFTER TREATMENT
