PCOS & Hyperpigmentation

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a metabolic and hormonal issue that affects 1 in 10 women globally! It is something that is tough to do battle with and interestingly, in addition to all the things is causes within our bodies, it also has an impact on our skin. Most of us associate it with acne breakouts, but did you know it also impacts dark spots and hyperpigmentation?

It actually increases the risk of hyperpigmentation due to a combination of the hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and insulin resistance.

Here is what it is doing to our skin & how we can work to support our body and skin to combat this.

1. Hormonal Imbalances

PCOS often involves higher levels of androgens (male hormones) like testosterone. These hormones can stimulate our skin’s melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), leading to increased melanin production. That’s why you may notice darkened areas on parts of your body like the neck, underarms, or inner thighs (known as acanthosis nigricans), or more persistent post-acne marks.

2. Insulin Resistance

Many of us with PCOS also have insulin resistance, where the body doesn't respond properly to insulin. This results in higher circulating insulin, which also stimulates melanocytes and can worsen pigmentation. Insulin resistance is strongly linked to the development of acanthosis nigricans.

3. Chronic Inflammation

PCOS is considered a low-grade inflammatory condition, and inflammation itself is a key trigger for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). So if you experience acne, rashes, or other skin irritation, you’re more likely to be left with dark marks that take longer to fade.

4. Slower Cell Turnover

The combination of hormonal disruption and inflammation can also impair healthy skin renewal, meaning pigmentation takes longer to fade and new skin cells don’t surface as quickly.

Now, all is not lost, there are some wonderful compounds I have found for us to use to help address these 4 contributing factors to the darkness we can experience. 

First up, for hormonal balance 👇

• Maca Root – An adaptogen traditionally used to support hormonal health and can really help rebalance estrogen and androgens.
• Lustriva®  – Clinically studied for its positive effect on hair and skin by helping regulate insulin and androgen levels.
• Zinc  – Essential for healthy hormone metabolism, regulating oil production, and supporting ovulatory balance.
• Red Clover – A plant-based source of phytoestrogens that can gently support estrogen balance.

Next up, for insulin resistance & melanocyte overactivity

• Licorice Root – Helps reduce androgens, supports insulin sensitivity, and has a natural skin-brightening effect.
• Polypodium – Offers internal photoprotection and helps suppress melanin activity triggered by inflammation and UV.
• White Tea Leaf  – Helps improve insulin function and protects skin from oxidative pigmentation.
• Knotweed Root – Supports metabolic health and reduces oxidative pigment triggers.

Now, for the chronic inflammation

• Dragon’s Blood – Helps soothe inflamed tissue and helps regenerate skin post-acne.
• Pomegranate – Rich in anti-inflammatory polyphenols that help to calm pigment-producing cells.
• Grapeseed – Combats oxidative damage and helps speed up repair of inflamed or UV-damaged skin.
• Vitamin C, A, E & Selenium – Together, they work to help reduce free radical damage and calm inflammation at the cellular level.
• Probiotics – These help regulate the gut-skin axis, reduce inflammation, and improve skin barrier recovery.

And finally, that sluggish skin cell turnover

• Vitamin A – Speeds up skin renewal and fades pigmentation.
• White Willow Bark – Natural source of salicylates to gently support cell turnover.
• Biotin + Hydrolyzed Keratin + Collagen – This combo helps rebuild and smooth skin texture from within.
• Hyaluronic Acid – Keeps skin hydrated and supple, enhancing cell renewal and fading of old marks.

My Perfect Skin Kit becomes the perfect partner when it comes to naturally supporting your skin to fade away and prevent the dark spots and hyperpigmentation that come alongside PCOS. You can try it out totally risk free as well thanks to my 45 day money back guarantee. 

Talk soon,

K xx