Dealing with Acne & Weight Gain: Hormonal Imbalance in Teenage Years

Dealing with Acne & Weight Gain: Hormonal Imbalances in Teenage Years

Why It’s Not Just “A Phase” — and How to Support Your Teen

The teenage years bring big changes — physically, emotionally, and hormonally. It’s normal for girls to go through phases of acne, mood swings, and body shape changes. But sometimes, these changes can become more than just a passing phase. If your daughter is struggling with persistent acne, unexplained weight gain, or irregular periods, it may be time to look deeper.

At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic in Lucknow, we specialize in adolescent gynaecology and hormonal care, helping girls navigate their growing bodies with kindness and clarity. Let’s understand how hormonal imbalances in teenage girls can show up, and what you can do about them.

What Causes Hormonal Imbalance in Teenage Girls?

During puberty, the body begins producing more of hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and androgens. This shift supports menstruation, breast development, and overall growth. But when hormone levels rise too much or don’t stay balanced, they can lead to issues like:

  • Irregular or heavy periods

  • Oily skin and hormonal acne

  • Sudden weight gain, especially around the belly

  • Excess hair growth on the face or body

  • Mood swings or anxiety

Common conditions linked to hormonal imbalance in teens include:

  • PCOD/PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Disease)

  • Thyroid disorders

  • Insulin resistance

  • Stress-related hormonal shifts

These are medical conditions — not cosmetic concerns or lifestyle “mistakes.”

The Link Between Hormones, Acne & Weight Gain

🧴 Hormonal Acne

Unlike typical teenage breakouts, hormonal acne tends to:

  • Appear on the jawline, chin, and cheeks

  • Be deep, painful, or cystic

  • Flare up around the menstrual cycle

  • Resist regular skin care or over-the-counter treatments

It’s often caused by excess androgens (male hormones) that trigger overactive oil glands and inflammation.

⚖️ Unexplained Weight Gain

Hormonal weight gain tends to be:

  • Concentrated around the abdomen

  • Accompanied by cravings and fatigue

  • Resistant to diet or physical activity

  • Linked to irregular menstrual cycles or facial hair

In cases of PCOD, the ovaries may produce more androgens and cysts, disturbing ovulation and causing weight gain and skin issues together.

When Should You See a Gynaecologist?

You should consider visiting a specialist like Dr. Richa Gangwar if your daughter:

  • Has irregular, missed, or painful periods

  • Experiences low energy or mood changes

  • Has skin issues that don’t improve with skincare

  • Shows signs of body image distress or self-consciousness

  • Complains of sudden weight gain or hair loss

We offer age-appropriate consultations, ensuring that teens feel comfortable, not judged or overwhelmed.

How We Diagnose Hormonal Imbalances

At our clinic in Lucknow, we provide:

  • Detailed menstrual history review

  • Pelvic ultrasound (if needed, for PCOD evaluation)

  • Hormonal blood tests (estrogen, testosterone, thyroid, insulin)

  • Weight, BMI, and lifestyle assessment

Our goal is not just to find what’s wrong, but to create a plan that empowers your teen to understand her body.

Treatment Options: Gentle & Holistic

Treatment for teenage hormonal imbalance is always personalized and may include:

1. Diet and Lifestyle Support

A major part of healing comes from simple changes like:

  • Reducing junk and sugary foods

  • Including high-fiber vegetables, fruits, and whole grains

  • Daily movement like walking, yoga, or cycling

  • Stress reduction through sleep and mindfulness

  • Supporting digestion and hormonal detox naturally

We provide teen-friendly diet plans and realistic routines that don’t feel restrictive.

2. Medical Support (If Needed)

In some cases, short-term medications or supplements may be recommended, such as:

  • Hormone-regulating pills (for severe PCOD or irregular periods)

  • Zinc and Vitamin B6 for skin healing

  • Thyroid medication, if underactive thyroid is the cause

  • Anti-androgen therapy, only under close monitoring

We always use the lowest effective dose with regular follow-up — and explain everything in simple terms for both teen and parent.

3. Emotional Wellbeing

Acne and weight gain can deeply affect self-esteem, especially in teens. At Dr. Richa’s clinic, we support emotional health by:

  • Encouraging open conversations

  • Involving parents in a non-blaming way

  • Recommending counselling if needed

A confident girl grows into a confident woman. Early care helps build that foundation.

Supporting Your Teen: What Parents Can Do

  • Don’t dismiss concerns as “just hormones” or “teen drama”

  • Avoid blaming or shaming language around food or weight

  • Encourage regular checkups and celebrate small improvements

  • Create a supportive home environment — with routines, rest, and warmth

Hormonal care is not just about treatment. It’s about helping your daughter feel at home in her changing body.

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