Determining whether you have hormonal or bacterial acne can be done by considering various factors. Hormonal acne is often linked to hormonal fluctuations and typically appears around the chin and jawline before the menstrual cycle in women or during puberty in both males and females. Bacterial acne, on the other hand, is caused by the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes and can appear as inflamed, pus-filled pimples.

To better understand the type of acne you have, monitoring the location, timing, and characteristics of your breakouts can provide some insight. If your acne consistently flares up before your period or seems to be more cystic and deep, it may be hormonal. If your acne is characterized by smaller, more widespread pimples and appears more surface-level, it may be bacterial.

However, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist for a proper assessment and personalized treatment plan.