Can myo-inositol help with acne related to PCOS?

Many women with PCOS find acne frustrating, as it’s often linked to hormonal imbalances—especially elevated androgens like testosterone—that can increase oil production and clog pores.

Myo-Inositol does help to improve skin condition. It was reported in 65% of reviews from women with PCOS when we analysed the data on inositol benefits.

Typical Reviews For Acne & Skin Health from women with PCOS
Typical Reviews For Acne & Skin Health from women with PCOS

Preliminary scientific evidence suggests that myo-inositol supplementation may help improve acne in women with PCOS, likely through improvements in insulin sensitivity and reduced androgen levels, though the current evidence base lacks rigorous methodology and quantitative outcome data needed for definitive conclusions.

Here’s how myo-inositol might help with acne in PCOS:

It’s important to remember:

Scientific Research Summary

Two studies examining myo-inositol supplementation for acne in women with PCOS were identified, both reporting improvements in acne-related outcomes following 6 months of treatment. The Ciotta et al. study demonstrated significant improvement in acne scores compared to placebo, while the Pezza et al. study found significant improvements in acne-related quality of life measures (CADI and DLQI) at 3 and 6 months. Both studies also reported improvements in insulin sensitivity, with the Pezza study additionally demonstrating reductions in testosterone and DHEAS levels, providing a plausible mechanistic pathway for acne improvement through reduced hyperandrogenism.

However, the evidence remains preliminary. Neither study provided quantitative baseline or post-treatment acne severity data, standardized acne grading scales were not clearly specified, and only abstracts were available for review. The Pezza study used a combination product containing magnesium and folic acid alongside myo-inositol, complicating attribution of effects. While the consistent direction of benefit across studies and favorable safety profile (no adverse events reported) suggest myo-inositol may be a reasonable adjunctive option for PCOS-related acne, definitive conclusions await randomized controlled trials with validated acne outcome measures.

Detailed Report

Myo-Inositol and PCOS Acne – Scientific Research Report

References