Hormonal Acne Treatment

The relationship between hormones and their impact on the appearance of acne has been researched and endorsed by dermatologists all over the world. Although, acne is believed to be inherited in certain families, women are mostly affected by hormonal imbalance at various stages in their lives. So it is only appropriate that we find out exactly what hormones cause acne and what hormonal acne treatments are available and suitable.

The American Academy of Dermatology cites the all important testosterone hormone as the primary cause of acne. This androgen hormone increases the production of sebum in the sebaceous gland, which translates into the dreadful oily skin. The excess oil in the skin follicles causes a block leading to the presence of acne. Testosterone is typically found in greater number in males in their teens. However during adulthood, testosterone is found in greater numbers in women who are undergoing menstruation and pregnancy. This phenomenon explains the reason why women suffer acne breakouts during adulthood.

The most common hormonal acne treatments are oral medications such as oral contraceptives, anti-inflammatory products and anti-androgens. Anti-androgens, typically control the production of testosterone. Spironolactone and flutamide are commonly prescribed by dermatologists to control the production of androgens. Though, Spironolactone has not been recognized by the U.S FDA as the official hormonal acne treatment, it is prescribed by dermatologists for women who suffer from acne due to hormonal problems alone. Side effects of Spironolactone are dizziness, headache, vomiting, stomach cramps and low blood pressure.

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Anti-inflammatory products reduce inflammation besides controlling androgen production. Prednisone and Dexamethasone are some examples of anti-inflammatory products. The other known cure for hormonal acne is oral contraceptives. The intention behind oral contraceptives is to reduce the production of testosterone by increasing estrogen levels. Consequently, as testosterone levels come down, oil secretion is also reduced thus effectively curing acne. However, oral contraceptives are usually prescribed along with other topical medications such as lotions containing benzoyl peroxide. The usage of oral contraceptives, have side effects such as nausea, mood swings, breast tenderness and weight gain.

While adopting hormonal acne treatment, one has to keep in mind the fact that all the aforementioned medications are not recognized as exclusive cures for acne. Medications such as Spironolactone, are primarily used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention and are used to treat only women for acne. This medication is usually prescribed off-label. Anti-inflammatory products like Dexamethasone too cannot be used independently to treat acne. On the other hand, using Prednisone on a long-term basis can trigger an increase in acne. The general fact also remains that all hormonal medications cause side-effects. Therefore all the above medications should not be used during pregnancy.

In conclusion, it is necessary for us to carefully choose the right combination of medications since an effective, independent and established hormonal acne treatment has not been developed yet. Even as we read this, clinical trials and studies are underway in order to help women go through their hormonal changes without having to worry about this dreaded skin disorder.

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