Acne is a skin concern that affects people of all ages, but not all acne is the same. The two most common types are hormonal acne and bacterial acne. While both may cause breakouts, they stem from different causes and require different treatment approaches. Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right skincare routine or professional treatment.

What Is Hormonal Acne?

Hormonal acne is caused by fluctuations in hormones—most commonly androgens like testosterone. These fluctuations can lead to excess oil production, clogged pores, and deep, painful pimples. This type of acne is typically seen in teenagers going through puberty, women during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause, and those with conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).

Hormonal acne usually appears along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks, and tends to be deep, cystic, and inflamed. Breakouts often follow a monthly cycle and are harder to treat with over-the-counter products alone.

What Is Bacterial Acne?

Bacterial acne develops when the skin's pores become blocked with oil, dead skin, and debris, creating an environment where acne-causing bacteria can thrive. The bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) multiply and trigger inflammation, leading to visible breakouts.

Unlike hormonal acne, bacterial acne tends to appear on the forehead, nose, cheeks, shoulders, and back. The pimples are usually more superficial—whiteheads, blackheads, or pus-filled spots. Bacterial acne can be triggered by poor skincare hygiene, excessive sweating, dirty pillowcases, or heavy makeup.

How to Tell the Difference

One key difference lies in where and how the acne appears. Hormonal acne is usually deep and painful, focused around the chin and jawline, and occurs in cycles. Bacterial acne is more widespread, shallow, and can occur randomly due to hygiene issues or product buildup.

Hormonal acne is typically more stubborn and long-lasting, while bacterial acne may respond better to topical treatments and improved skincare habits.

Treatment Options for Each Type

Hormonal acne often requires a combination of:

Prescription medications like birth control pills or spironolactone
Topical retinoids
Lifestyle changes like stress management and diet adjustments
Regular skin-cleansing routines to balance oil levels

Bacterial acne can be treated using:

Topical antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin or erythromycin)
Benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation
Salicylic acid cleansers to unclog pores
A gentle, consistent skincare routine to prevent further irritation

When Should You Seek Help?

If you’ve tried multiple over-the-counter products and your acne persists—or worsens—it’s time to consult a skincare professional. A dermatologist can accurately diagnose your acne type and recommend targeted treatments to reduce breakouts and prevent long-term scarring.

Explore Advanced Acne Treatment in London

Understanding the type of acne you have is the first step toward clearer skin. Whether you're dealing with hormonal acne or bacterial acne, expert help is available. If you're looking for professional acne treatment in London, certified skin clinics offer personalised treatment plans using advanced technologies like laser therapy, chemical peels, and medical-grade skincare. Start your journey to healthier skin with expert guidance and effective care.

Hormonal Acne vs. Bacterial Acne: Know the Difference