Hormonal Acne Supplements & Hormone Testing
Hormonal Acne Supplements & Hormone Testing
Are you struggling with hormonal acne that just won’t go away? You’re not alone. Hormonal acne can be stubborn, persistent, and frustrating. If you’ve tried everything from over-the-counter treatments to acne facials and are still battling breakouts, it might be time to take a deeper look at the root cause: your hormones. But here’s the good news—there are effective ways to manage it, starting with the right hormonal acne supplements and proper hormone testing.
At Red Leaf Wellness in Edmonton & Canada, we specialize in blending functional medicine with modern medicine to help you achieve clearer skin and better overall health. In this guide, we’ll explore how hormonal acne supplements, hormone testing, and treatments like bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help you gain control of your acne and improve your well-being.
What Causes Hormonal Acne?
Hormonal acne, often referred to as acne vulgaris, is triggered by an imbalance in your hormone levels. Hormones play a significant role in the health of your skin, especially when they fluctuate due to reasons like puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. For women, shifts in estrogen and progesterone—especially during the menstrual cycle—can contribute to breakouts. For men, androgens like testosterone can increase oil production in the skin, leading to clogged pores and acne.
Hormonal imbalances may also be influenced by cortisol, your body’s stress hormone. High stress levels lead to an increase in cortisol, which can aggravate acne by causing inflammation and excess oil production. If you’ve been dealing with stubborn acne that’s resistant to typical treatments, you might be dealing with hormonal acne.
Common Signs of Hormonal Acne:
- Deep, painful cysts around the jawline and chin
- Breakouts that flare up around your menstrual cycle
- Pimples that don’t respond well to topical treatments
- Oily skin, especially on the face
- Acne combined with other symptoms of hormonal imbalance, like irregular periods or mood swings
The Role of Hormonal Acne Supplements
When it comes to fighting hormonal acne, the right hormonal acne supplements can make a huge difference. While skincare routines and acne facials help on the surface, treating hormonal acne from the inside out is crucial.
Supplements work by targeting the underlying hormonal imbalances that contribute to breakouts. These supplements can help regulate hormone levels, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy skin.
Here are some of the best hormonal acne supplements to consider:
Vitamins to Balance Hormones
- B Vitamins: B vitamins are essential for hormone regulation and stress reduction. Specifically, B6 helps balance estrogen levels and reduce inflammation, while B12 supports skin cell regeneration and energy production. These vitamins are crucial for hormonal balance and can help control breakouts.
- Vitamin D: Low vitamin D levels are often linked to severe hormonal acne. This vitamin is crucial for modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation, which can worsen acne symptoms. Getting enough sunlight or taking a supplement can help boost your vitamin D levels.
- Vitamin A: This powerful antioxidant is known for its role in promoting healthy skin. Vitamin A helps reduce oil production and supports faster skin cell turnover, preventing clogged pores that lead to acne. It’s available both in topical forms (like retinoids) and oral supplements.
- Vitamin E: With its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, vitamin E helps protect your skin from oxidative damage and calms inflammation. This vitamin works in synergy with other vitamins to support overall skin health.
Herbs for Hormonal Imbalance
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to balance hormones and support skin health. Some of the most effective include:
- DIM (Diindolylmethane): Derived from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, DIM is highly effective in balancing estrogen and reducing excess androgens. This makes it a great supplement for those dealing with hormonal acne related to PCOS or other estrogen-dominant conditions.
- Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb is known for its ability to reduce cortisol levels, making it ideal for those whose acne is triggered by stress. Lower cortisol levels help reduce inflammation and oil production, keeping your skin clearer.
- Myo-Inositol: Commonly used to regulate insulin and androgen levels in women with PCOS, myo-inositol helps balance hormones, reduce acne-causing oils, and support clearer skin.
Best Probiotics for Hormonal Acne
Probiotics play a crucial role in maintaining gut health, which in turn influences skin health. There’s a strong link between gut health and hormonal balance. The best probiotics for hormonal acne contain strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus, which help regulate hormone levels, improve gut health, and reduce inflammation.
By promoting a healthy gut microbiome, probiotics can reduce the systemic inflammation that often leads to breakouts. You can get probiotics from fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kombucha, or through high-quality supplements.
Fungal Acne vs. Hormonal Acne: How to Tell the Difference
It’s important to distinguish between different types of acne, as they require different treatments. Fungal acne vs. hormonal acne can be difficult to differentiate, but here are a few key indicators:
- Fungal Acne: Caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, fungal acne presents as small, itchy bumps, often on the chest, back, and shoulders. It’s usually treated with antifungal medications.
- Hormonal Acne: This type of acne typically appears as deep, cystic pimples around the chin, jawline, and sometimes the cheeks. It’s usually linked to hormonal imbalances and requires treatments like hormonal acne supplements and hormone testing.
If you’re unsure which type of acne you have, hormone testing can help pinpoint the root cause.
Curious About Your Hormone Health? Take Our Free Self-Assessment!
Are you wondering if hormonal imbalances could be affecting your well-being? Our quick and confidential self-assessment can help you gain valuable insights into your hormone health.
Discover if symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, or low libido might be linked to hormone imbalances. It takes just 2-3 minutes to complete and offers a quick evaluation of your current hormonal health. Plus, you can save your progress as you go along!
Receive a personalized report sent directly to your email—helping you understand your next steps toward feeling your best.
Why Hormone Testing is Essential
Before you start taking supplements, it’s important to know exactly what’s causing your acne. Hormone testing is the key to understanding your body’s specific hormonal imbalances. At Red Leaf Wellness, we offer comprehensive hormone testing Canada services to assess your hormone levels and create a personalized treatment plan.
Our testing includes evaluating hormones like testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol to determine the underlying cause of your acne. Whether you’re dealing with imbalances due to menopause, PCOS, or andropause, proper testing ensures we address the right hormones for optimal acne control.
Signs HRT Is Not Working
If you’re currently undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and still experiencing acne, there are some clear signs HRT is not working for you. These include:
- Persistent acne despite treatment
- Mood swings and fatigue
- Lack of improvement in energy levels
If this sounds familiar, it may be time to reassess your HRT approach and work with a professional to adjust your treatment.
How Red Leaf Wellness Helps You Achieve Acne Control
At Red Leaf Wellness, we don’t just treat the symptoms—we address the root cause. Our holistic approach includes a blend of acupuncture, functional medicine, and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to help you achieve lasting acne control and improved overall health.
Personalized Acne Facial Treatments
For those looking to complement their internal treatment with external care, we offer customized facial acupuncture treatments. These treatments focus on improving skin texture, stimulating collagen production, and helping to clear your skin naturally.
Edmonton BHRT and Canada BHRT
Our bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) services, available in Edmonton and across Canada, are designed to help balance hormones naturally. BHRT uses plant-based hormones that closely mimic your body’s own hormones, making it a safer and more effective option for those dealing with acne and other symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
Bring balance into your life. Choose a healthier and happier lifestyle.
Schedule an appointment today and let Red Leaf Wellness partner with you on your wellness journey!
FAQs About Hormonal Acne Supplements & Hormone Testing
1. What are the best hormonal acne supplements?
The best hormonal acne supplements include B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin E, and herbs like DIM and ashwagandha, which help balance hormones and reduce acne.
2. How does hormone testing help with hormonal acne?
Hormone testing provides valuable insight into which hormones are out of balance, allowing for a targeted approach to treatment. At Red Leaf Wellness, we offer hormone testing Canada to help you identify the root cause of your acne and create a personalized plan.
3. Can BHRT help with hormonal acne?
Yes, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can help balance your hormones and manage stubborn acne, especially for women going through menopause or perimenopause.
4. What are the signs HRT is not working for acne?
If you’ve been on HRT but haven’t noticed any improvement in your acne, experience mood swings, or feel fatigued, these may be signs HRT is not working for you. It’s important to consult your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment.
5. How do I know if I need hormonal acne supplements?
If you’ve been dealing with persistent breakouts, mood swings, or irregular periods, you might benefit from hormonal acne supplements. Testing your hormone levels through blood or saliva tests can help determine if supplements are right for you.
Conclusion
Hormonal acne can be challenging, but it’s not impossible to manage. With the right hormonal acne supplements, hormone testing, and holistic treatments, you can take control of your skin and your health. At Red Leaf Wellness, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to start your journey to balanced hormones, clear skin, and improved overall well-being.
Our Experienced Practitioners:
Dr.Ac Lalonde 🇬🇧
“As a clinician and leader, I see myself not only as a caregiver but also as a teacher—empowering patients with the knowledge and tools they need to take charge of their health. By educating and guiding them, I can help transform their lives far beyond the treatment room, creating lasting wellness that they can carry with them. – Dr. Tammy Lalonde”
Caring for people is my true passion and one of life’s greatest callings. With years of experience as both a Paramedic and Acupuncturist, I’ve supported patients through obvious and invisible injuries alike. I’ve been there during moments of deep crisis—whether delivering babies in cars parked roadside, providing care at 30,000 feet aboard a domestic flight, or flying emergency medevacs over the Arabian desert. Through these experiences, I’ve learned not only how to care for those in urgent need but also how to recognize the long-term impact that lifestyle, diet, and fitness can have on overall health.
As my career has evolved, so has my focus. I now concentrate on helping more people earlier, preventing minor concerns from escalating into more complex and costly illnesses. A key part of this shift is my role in leading our Hormone Health program, which empowers patients to address hormonal imbalances that affect energy, mood, and overall well-being. This program has far-reaching impacts, not only improving individual lives but also strengthening the health of entire communities. By helping people regain balance, we’re preventing chronic diseases and fostering long-term wellness. Through a combination of my background in emergency medicine and women’s health, I offer a unique, integrative approach. I draw on the strengths of oriental medicine, along with the expertise of top practitioners, to deliver care that restores balance to the body, mind, and spirit.
My academic journey has allowed me to seamlessly blend oriental medicine with Western healthcare, creating a holistic approach to patient care. My expertise lies in navigating high-stress, complex situations, and I have a deep passion for managing care and treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD—especially among Armed Forces and Emergency Services personnel. In addition to my extensive background, I have advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) through Worldlink Medical, which enhances my ability to help patients achieve hormonal balance and long-term wellness. With a long-standing career spanning North America and the Middle East, I have been privileged to serve as a respected clinician, clinical educator, and fire and emergency medical dispatcher. I hold active licensure and registration with the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA), the California Acupuncture Board, and the Alberta Herbalists Association (AHA). Additionally, I have served as a Board Director with the Alberta Pain Society and am a current member of the CAA Competence Committee.
Education:
- Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM), American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Master of Science (MS) – Traditional Chinese Medicine, American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Master of Science (MS) – Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, cum laude, South Baylo University
- Bachelor of Science (BS) – Holistic Science, South Baylo University
- Diploma – Emergency Medical Technician (Paramedic), Augustana University
Licensure
- RAc – Registered Acupuncturist of the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA)
- RH – Registered Herbalist of the Alberta Herbalists Association (AHA)
- LAc – Licensed Acupuncturist of the California Acupuncture Board
- Dipl.Ac – Diplomate of Acupuncture of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
Dr.Ac Lalonde 🇬🇧
CEO, Acupuncture, Herbalism
“As a clinician and leader, I see myself not only...
Dr. McCarthy 🇬🇧
Dr. Lorraine McCarthy is a Naturopathic Doctor who has been serving the communities of Ottawa and Edmonton since her graduation from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2004. Her extensive background in Naturopathic Medicine has paved the way for diverse opportunities, including her involvement in the regulation of natural health products at Health Canada and her roles as a health advisor and physiology instructor at the Guanacaste Waldorf School in Costa Rica. Her current residence is in Rio Terrace, situated in the west end of Edmonton, where she lives with her husband and three children.
Dr. McCarthy’s utmost dedication lies in fostering the health and well-being of families. As a mother herself, she deeply understands the profound concern parents hold for the health of their children, and she shares the common desire of many parents to seek natural remedies and approaches. Dr. McCarthy also acknowledges the responsibility many individuals feel in providing care for their aging parents, which fuels her commitment to advocating for complementary health practices for seniors. Her extensive experience in administering Naturopathic Medicine to patients, as well as addressing the health issues of her own family, positions Dr. McCarthy to offer invaluable counsel and support.
Expanding beyond family health, Dr. McCarthy’s expertise extends to addressing a diverse range of health matters for individuals of all ages. Her particular areas of interest and proficiency encompass:
- Offering solutions for behavioural concerns in children
- Assisting seniors in achieving improved aging, increased energy, and overall well-being
- Implementing biotherapeutic drainage to reduce individuals’ toxic load
- Providing treatment for digestive ailments
- Utilizing the Bowen Technique to facilitate healing for pain and various injuries, including concussions
Dr. McCarthy’s legacy as a dedicated advocate for holistic wellness and an accomplished Naturopathic Doctor ensures that her patients receive comprehensive support and guidance towards optimal health.
Education:
- Naturopathic Doctor, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Licensure:
- Registered Naturopathic Doctor, College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta
Dr. McCarthy 🇬🇧
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Lorraine McCarthy is a Naturopathic Doctor who has been...
Sarah Hennings 🇬🇧
“Every patient deserves a healthcare provider who listens, investigates, and treats the root cause of their concerns with compassion and expertise.” – Sarah Hennings, NP
Sarah Hennings, a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and graduate of Worldlink Medical’s advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) Workshop Series, lives by this mantra, which stems from her diverse healthcare background and unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. With a unique blend of experience in primary care, mental health, occupational health, and various nursing specialties, Sarah brings a holistic and collaborative approach to addressing the health needs of her patients.
Graduating from Athabasca University in 2020 with a focus on primary care for all ages, Sarah’s passion for healthcare began long before. Her journey started in 2007 when she obtained a degree in healthcare administration from the University of Calgary, followed by a supervising role in the EMS division of Capital Health, where she honed her skills in patient transport and working with PFCC.
As a Registered Nurse since 2012, Sarah has gained extensive experience in medical/surgical nursing, palliative care, addiction and mental health, home care, and long-term care. Her commitment to education led her to teach supportive living sites across Alberta about proper antipsychotic use and dementia care. Most recently, Sarah worked in acute mental health, emergency, rural, and outpost nursing in various locations throughout British Columbia, further expanding her skill set.
Sarah’s experiences in OH&S in the oilfield and primary care have sparked her interest in addressing the unique barriers men face when accessing care services and the importance of women’s health and hormone balance. She believes in getting to the root of health problems through proper investigation and personalized treatment regimens, valuing collaborative teamwork and input from various disciplines.
To further enhance her skills, Sarah has completed additional education and certifications in hormone replacement therapy, addictions, cosmetic and migraine injections with Botox and fillers, pain therapy and joint injections, emergency nursing, and occupational health. Her advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) through Worldlink Medical’s Workshop Series has equipped her with the latest medical treatments in the prevention of chronic disease, with a hormone foundation. This knowledge allows Sarah to empower her patients with life-changing information and drive protocols and results based on academic journals and peer-reviewed content.
When not dedicating herself to her patients, Sarah is a proud mother of a 15-year-old son and an avid Edmonton Oilers fan. Together, they are learning to become pilots, showcasing Sarah’s love for travel and her commitment to personal growth alongside her professional development.
Education:
- Bachelor of Health Administration, Athabasca University
- Bachelor of Nursing, University of Calgary
- Master of Nursing, Nurse Practitioner Family of All Ages, Athabasca University
Licensure:
- NP – College of Registered Nurses of Alberta
Sarah Hennings 🇬🇧
Nurse Practitioner
“Every patient deserves a healthcare provider who listens, investigates, and...
Allie Kusnierczyk 🇬🇧
Allie Kusnierczyk is a passionate and dedicated Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner with a deep commitment to holistic women’s health across the lifespan. She recognizes that menopause is often poorly screened and managed in primary care and is focused on bridging this gap through personalized, evidence-based care. Allie is driven by the privilege of helping women improve their quality of life, particularly in the areas of hormone health and mental well-being.
With over 8 years of experience across diverse healthcare settings—including obstetrics, psychiatry, adult critical care, and emergency medicine—Allie’s approach is both comprehensive and integrative. She specializes in women’s health, with a particular focus on BHRT, menopause management, and mental health, especially in relation to suicidality during menopause and the perinatal period. Allie understands the physical and mental toll that unmanaged menopause can have and is committed to providing the care and support women need to navigate these challenges.
At Red Leaf Wellness, Allie is dedicated to creating individualized care plans that empower women to take control of their health. She emphasizes long-term, trusting relationships, ensuring her patients feel heard, supported, and empowered to actively participate in their care.
Outside the clinic, Allie enjoys exploring the outdoors through hiking, canoeing, and backcountry camping with her husband and their dogs.
Education:
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Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner Diploma – Western University, London, Ontario
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Master of Nursing – Western University, London, Ontario
- Critical Care Nursing Certification – George Brown College
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minor in Psychology – Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario
Licensure:
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Nurse Practitioner – College of Nurses of Ontario
- Nurse Practitioner – College of Registered Nurses of Alberta
Allie Kusnierczyk 🇬🇧
Nurse Practitioner
Allie Kusnierczyk is a passionate and dedicated Primary Health Care...
Jess Roberts 🇬🇧
“Effective patient care is built on trust, communication, and a commitment to seeing each patient as an individual with unique needs.” – Jess Roberts, Patient Care Coordinator
Jess Roberts embodies this philosophy. With several years of experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse and a specialized focus in OBGYN care, Jess brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to her role as Patient Care Coordinator at Red Leaf Wellness. Her passion for holistic nutrition and women’s health has guided her work, from optimizing fertility to managing menopause. Jessica believes in blending traditional and complementary approaches to health, ensuring every patient receives personalized care that nurtures both body and mind.
Originally from England, Jess made Canada her home seven years ago. In addition to her professional pursuits, she is a devoted mother to her baby boy, Jackson, and a loving pet parent to her dog, Luna. Balancing her career and personal life has taught Jessica the importance of holistic well-being—a perspective she brings to her patient care coordination at Red Leaf Wellness.
When she’s not assisting patients, Jess enjoys exploring the latest research on holistic health and spending time outdoors with her family. Her dedication to supporting patients through their health journeys makes her a valuable part of the Red Leaf Wellness team.
Education
- Diploma in Practical Nursing
Sprott Shaw College, Kelowna
Graduated: May 2021
Licensing & Certifications
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
- Food Safety Certification
Jess Roberts 🇬🇧
Patient Care Coordinator
“Effective patient care is built on trust, communication, and a...
