Why Over-the-Counter Products Fail to Treat Hormonal Acne

Dealing with persistent flare-ups around your chin or jawline? It’s easy to feel frustrated. But the truth is, you’re probably doing everything right. The problem isn’t your effort – it's the products you’re using.  

Most over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatments aren’t designed to target hormonal acne, which is why they often fail, even with consistency. Understanding why this happens is the first step to finally finding something that works.  

In this blog, we’ll explore what makes hormonal acne different to other kinds of acne, why OTC products don’t work, and how MiQuest’s personalised acne treatment can deliver the skin confidence you’ve been looking for.  

What Makes Hormonal Acne Different?  

Hormonal acne is triggered by internal shifts, like those related to your menstrual cycle, stress levels, sleep changes, or conditions like PCOS. These changes can affect your hormones, especially androgens, which can increase oil (sebum) production and clog pores.  

This type of acne tends to show up around the jawline, chin, and cheeks, and is often deep, cystic, and painful. Because it starts below the skin’s surface, it often doesn’t respond to topical spot treatments. That’s why it’s important to treat hormonal acne at the root, not just on the surface.

Why OTC Products Don’t Work (and Why It’s Not Your Fault)

They treat the symptom, not the cause:

Most OTC products help with inflammation and surface bacteria. But they can’t regulate hormones or sebum production, which are the factors at the core of hormonal acne.

They rely on generic formulas:

Pharmacy options are made for the masses. They’re not tailored to the unique needs of your skin, and they’re definitely not built to address the demands of hormonal acne.  

They can worsen sensitive or hormonal skin:

Many OTC products include harsh ingredients that can damage the skin barrier. This can cause increased irritation, dryness, and even more oil production, which can fuel the acne cycle.  

They miss the need for consistency and expertise:

Without clinical guidance, it’s hard to know what’s actually helping. Most people try multiple acne removal creams before giving up, not because they’re wrong, but because the products aren’t personalised or backed by real insight.

What Does Work for Hormonal Acne?  

Successfully treating hormonal acne requires a more strategic, science-led approach. This includes:

• Prescription acne creams with ingredients that regulate oil and reduce inflammation at the source
• Personalised acne solutions based on your skin’s needs
• Expert oversight to help monitor, adapt, and optimise your treatment as your skin changes

With us here at MiQuest, you get all of this and more.  

The MiQuest Approach  

We don’t play guessing games with your skin. Our acne treatment plans are tailored to each individual, combining clinical insight with AI-powered technology.  

We formulate prescription skincare that targets the root causes of hormonal acne, while also supporting related concerns with treatments like pigmentation removal cream and cream for rosacea on the face.

Hormonal acne isn’t random – and it’s not something you should have to live with. If OTC products have failed you, it’s time to try something that won’t.  

Start your consultation with MiQuest today to experience the difference personalised acne treatment can make.