A Root-Level Approach to Acne, Hormonal Imbalance, and PCOS

Written By Ozben Felek

A case study in using Classical Chinese Herbal Medicine to transform skin—and health—from the inside out

At Felek Acupuncture, we believe in looking beyond surface-level symptoms to understand the full story of a patient’s health. This case study beautifully illustrates how working with the body’s internal balance can lead to lasting changes—even in complex conditions like PCOS and hormonal acne.

Meet the Patient

In early 2023, a 25-year-old woman came to our clinic seeking help for persistent facial acne, primarily concentrated around her chin and cheeks, and worsening in the days leading up to her period. The acne was painful, cystic, and filled with fluid—clearly hormonal in nature. She had been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and also struggled with a constellation of related symptoms:

  • Premenstrual migraines

  • Bloating and food sensitivities

  • Irregular, uncomfortable menstrual cycles

Over the course of two years, we’ve worked together through acupuncture and herbal medicine to address these concerns not individually, but holistically.

A Different Kind of Treatment Strategy

Instead of focusing solely on the acne and reaching for herbs traditionally used for skin issues, we took a whole-body diagnostic approach rooted in Classical Chinese Herbal Medicine (Jing Fang).

We looked at:

  • Her body constitution

  • Menstrual history

  • Pulse and tongue

  • Abdominal palpation (which gave us clues about internal dampness, stagnation, and weakness)

Custom Herbal Formula: Treating the Root

What emerged was a customized herbal prescription tailored to her unique presentation—one that evolved over time but consistently included key formulas and modifications:

  • Dang Gui Shao Yao San: to nourish the blood and regulate menstruation while addressing dampness.

  • Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan: to break up blood stasis and reduce cystic inflammation.

  • Ge Gen: to open the surface, regulate digestion, and support healthy circulation to the face and upper body.

  • Lian Qiao: to clear internal heat and toxin buildup, particularly helpful for acne and inflammatory conditions.

These herbs weren’t chosen just for acne—they were chosen for her. The acne cleared not because we chased it with symptom-specific treatments, but because we helped her body find balance again.

A Year of Transformation

When you look at the photo taken in April 2024 and compare it to the most recent one from March 2025, the results speak for themselves.

  • Her skin is clear, calm, and vibrant.

  • Her cycles are more regular and less painful.

  • Migraines are significantly reduced.

  • Food sensitivities have improved, and digestion is more stable.

This transformation didn’t come overnight—but through patient, collaborative work over time. And most importantly, it came from treating her whole system, not just one symptom.

Are you or someone you love struggling with chronic skin issues, menstrual irregularities, or hormone-related symptoms? We’d love to help you explore a different kind of healing—one that’s tailored to the whole you.

✨ Book a consultation with us today.

📍Felek Acupuncture, 1152 Solano Ave, Albany, CA

Ozben Felek
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