Acne bothers most teenagers and many adults. Hormonal acne can cause breakouts any time your hormones fluctuate. Fortunately, hormonal acne often responds well to treatment, and you may start to see clearer skin within days. 

What is Hormonal Acne?

Any time you experience changes in your hormones, acne can flare. This happens most obviously during puberty, but it can also occur before and during menopause. Many women find that hormonal changes during their monthly cycles cause acne breakouts. Acne may flare with increased testosterone, which men and women have in different amounts. In women, testosterone related hormones and estrogen levels change as your cycle progresses.

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How to Treat Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne appears in response to hormone changes but has the same causes as other types of acne. It occurs when pores become blocked with oil and debris. These pores become bacteria friendly environments, and the trapped bacteria causes inflammation and redness. 

At-Home Acne Treatments

Some hormonal acne responds to treatments you can use at home. Your Krauss dermatologist may recommend treatments such as:

  • Benzoyl peroxide
  • Retinoids (such as Differin gel)
  • Salicylic acid cleanser
  • Stopping pore-clogging products such as skin and hair oils

Prescription Medications

If you have not seen results after using your skincare regimen for a few weeks, you may need more help. A dermatologist can prescribe hormonal acne medications. These can include oral contraceptives that balance your hormones or the medication spironolactone. They may also include antibiotics or an oral retinoid. 

When Should I See a Dermatologist About Hormonal Acne?

You should consider seeing a dermatologist if your acne is resistant to at-home treatments, is leaving marks and scars, or is painful. Contact a dermatologist if you use a good routine consistently for several weeks without results. Untreated hormonal acne can result in inflammation, pain, and hard-to-treat acne scars. Dermatologists have extensive experience in managing acne so that you achieve clearer skin. 

Hormonal Acne Treatment Consultations Available

Are There Side Effects From Hormonal Acne Treatment?

Some acne treatments have side effects you should keep in mind. Oral or topical retinoid treatments make your skin extremely sensitive to sun exposure. If you take an oral retinoid or antibiotic, you must use sun protection for your entire body, not just your face. If a topical or oral treatment seems to dry your skin too much, your dermatologist may change it. 

How Can I Treat Hormonal Acne Scars?

If your acne tends to become deep and inflamed, you may find yourself with acne scars. These scars are often indented into the skin and can be challenging to cover up. If you want to treat acne scars, your Krauss dermatologist will often recommend laser treatments. These will resurface the skin and generate collagen production. 

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Take the Next Step

If you have further questions about hormonal acne, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Krauss Dermatology. Call us at (781) 416-3500 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to taking care of you.