Acne is one of the most common skin concerns across all ages, but it’s more than a cosmetic issue. For many, acne is a symptom of an underlying imbalance—whether hormonal, nutritional, or related to inflammation in the body. At Aligned Modern Health, our Functional Medicine team looks beyond the surface to help you understand what’s driving your breakouts and create a personalized plan for clearer, healthier skin.
Acne is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that develops when pores or hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. While it’s often associated with adolescence, acne can occur at any age and may be an important clue about what’s happening in your body.
Acne can present in several forms, including:
Whiteheads: Small, closed bumps with a pale or white center
Blackheads: Pores clogged with oil and dead skin that darken at the surface
Papules: Small, inflamed red bumps
Pustules: Pimples containing pus
Nodules: Painful, deep-seated lesions beneath the skin
Cysts: Large, inflamed breakouts that may lead to scarring
Acne is not limited to one stage of life.
Teenage Acne: Often linked to puberty-driven hormonal changes that increase oil production.
Adult Acne: Common in the 20s and 30s, sometimes triggered by stress, diet, or persistent hormonal fluctuations.
Midlife Acne: Perimenopause and menopause can lead to new or recurrent acne due to shifts in estrogen and androgens.
Acne in Men: May be related to testosterone, lifestyle factors, or undiagnosed metabolic or inflammatory conditions.
Acne is influenced by many factors, often working together:
Hormonal fluctuations (puberty, pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause, and andropause)
Excess oil, dead skin, or bacteria clogging pores
Dietary triggers such as sugar, dairy, gluten, and high-glycemic foods
Stress, which raises cortisol and oil production
Environmental exposure to pollution or humidity
Underlying inflammation or gut imbalances, which may appear on the skin
While acne is a skin condition, it’s often a visible sign of deeper health concerns, including:
Hormonal imbalances
Gut dysbiosis or food sensitivities
Chronic inflammation
Stress-related dysfunction
Addressing these root causes is essential for lasting skin health.
At Aligned Modern Health, our providers take a whole-body approach to acne, combining advanced testing and personalized care. We focus on:
Identifying hormonal or nutritional imbalances
Supporting gut health
Reducing inflammation
Creating individualized lifestyle and nutrition plans
By addressing the underlying drivers, we help patients achieve clearer skin while improving overall health.
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