Hormonal acne explained in under 3 minutes | Dermatologist reviews

Summary

This informative discussion on hormonal acne highlights the distinction between hormonal imbalances and sensitive oil glands as primary causes. It emphasizes that hormonal acne, often seen as jawline cystic acne in adult females, can flare up during menstrual cycles, resulting in painful lesions. The video suggests home remedies like salicylic acid and dietary adjustments but recommends consulting a dermatologist for persistent cases. Treatment options may include antibiotics, hormonal control, and anti-hormonal medications like spironolactone or isotretinoin (Accutane). Overall, the video encourages viewers to seek professional advice for effective acne management.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hormonal acne is caused by excess hormones such as prolactin, testosterone, and DHEAS, but can also be due to sensitive oil glands reacting to normal hormone levels.
• 😀 The most common manifestation of hormonal acne is deep, painful lesions along the jawline, often referred to as 'jawline acne' or 'adult female jawline cystic acne.'
• 😀 Hormonal acne typically flares up during menstrual cycles, highlighting its connection to hormonal changes.
• 😀 Common home treatments for hormonal acne include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and dietary changes such as reducing sugar, dairy, and processed foods.
• 😀 If over-the-counter treatments are ineffective, consulting a dermatologist is recommended for personalized advice and treatment options.
• 😀 Dermatologists often explore patients' previous treatment attempts, such as antibiotics and hormonal control (oral contraceptives), before suggesting further options.
• 😀 Treatments available for hormonal acne may include anti-hormonal drugs, with spironolactone being a popular choice due to its effectiveness and minimal side effects.
• 😀 Isotretinoin (Accutane) is another treatment option for more severe cases of hormonal acne, but it may require prior treatments to be considered.
• 😀 It is essential for patients to engage in discussions with their dermatologists about effective treatment plans tailored to their specific acne types.
• 😀 Understanding the differences between hormonal acne and typical teenage acne is crucial for effective treatment and management.

Q & A

What is hormonal acne?

Hormonal acne is a type of acne that is influenced by hormonal changes in the body. It can be caused by excess hormones like prolactin, testosterone, and DHEAS, or by oil glands that are overly sensitive to normal hormone levels.

How does hormonal acne differ from teenage acne?

Hormonal acne, often referred to as jawline acne or adult female cystic acne, usually appears along the jawline and can flare up during menstrual cycles. It tends to be deeper and more painful compared to typical teenage acne.

What home treatments can be used for hormonal acne?

Simple home treatments include using salicylic acid washes, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and following an acne-friendly diet that is low in sugar, dairy, and processed foods.

When should someone see a dermatologist for hormonal acne?

If over-the-counter treatments are ineffective, it’s advisable to see a dermatologist. They can help identify the underlying causes and provide more advanced treatment options.

What initial treatments do dermatologists typically recommend for hormonal acne?

Dermatologists often start with antibiotics, hormonal treatments like oral contraceptive pills, and topical retinoids before considering stronger medications.

What role does spironolactone play in treating hormonal acne?

Spironolactone is an anti-hormonal medication that can be safely used to manage hormonal acne, providing effective results with minimal side effects.

What is isotretinoin, and when is it used?

Isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane, is a potent medication used for severe cases of acne. Dermatologists may recommend it if other treatments have failed.

Why is it important to investigate hormone levels when treating hormonal acne?

Investigating hormone levels helps to exclude any abnormalities or excess hormones that could be contributing to acne, allowing for more targeted treatment.

What dietary changes can help reduce hormonal acne?

A diet low in sugar, dairy, and processed foods may help reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups of hormonal acne.

How can patients collaborate with their dermatologist for effective acne treatment?

Patients should communicate openly about their treatment history and symptoms, allowing dermatologists to recommend the most appropriate treatment options, including lifestyle changes and medications.