# How to Treat Acne Related to Hormones
Hormonal acne happens when fluctuations in your hormones trigger breakouts on your skin. This type of acne is common in adults and can be frustrating because it often doesn’t respond to basic skincare alone. The good news is that dermatologists have developed many effective treatment options to help clear hormonal acne.
## Understanding the Problem
Hormonal acne occurs when your body’s hormone levels shift. In women, this can happen during menstrual cycles, menopause, or when taking certain medications. During these times, hormones like androgens can increase oil production in your skin, clog pores, and create an environment where acne-causing bacteria thrive. This is why hormonal acne often appears as deep cystic breakouts that are harder to treat than regular acne.
## Starting with the Basics
If you have mild hormonal acne, your dermatologist will likely suggest starting with over-the-counter products and simple skincare changes. These include oil-free moisturizers, gentle cleansing routines, and avoiding products that strip away your skin’s natural moisture. Making lifestyle changes like managing stress, getting quality sleep, staying hydrated, and exercising can also help your skin heal from the inside out.
## Topical Treatments You Can Apply at Home
Topical treatments are creams, gels, and lotions you apply directly to your skin. These are often the first prescription option doctors recommend.
Retinoids, which are derivatives of vitamin A, help unclog pores and reduce inflammation. They work by encouraging your skin cells to shed faster and more evenly, which prevents the buildup that causes breakouts. Retinoids can also fade marks left behind by acne and improve your overall skin texture over time.
Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that cause acne and reduces excess oil on your skin. Salicylic acid works by exfoliating dead skin cells that can clog your pores. Azelaic acid reduces swelling and also kills bacteria. These ingredients form the foundation of many acne treatment plans.
A newer option is clascoterone, the first FDA-approved topical antiandrogen. This medication works directly on your skin to target the hormones that cause acne without affecting your hormones throughout your entire body.
## Oral Medications for Moderate to Severe Cases
When topical treatments aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe oral medications that work from the inside.
Oral antibiotics can reduce bacterial growth and calm inflammation in moderate to severe cases. However, these are typically used for short-term treatment only.
Certain birth control pills help balance hormones and prevent breakouts. These pills work best when they contain less acne-causing progesterone components. Your doctor can help you find the right option, though it’s important to know that birth control can sometimes make acne worse for some people.
Spironolactone is a prescription medication that blocks the effects of androgens, the male hormones that contribute to acne. This medication requires ongoing use but provides good results for many people with hormonal acne.
For severe, treatment-resistant acne, isotretinoin (also called Accutane) may be prescribed. This is a powerful medication that can lead to long-term clearance after treatment, but it requires careful medical monitoring and cannot be used by women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant because it can cause serious birth defects.
## Professional Treatments at a Dermatology Clinic
If you want faster results or have tried other options without success, professional treatments performed by a dermatologist can help.
Chemical peels remove dead skin cells through controlled exfoliation, helping to clear clogged pores and reduce scarring. Laser treatments reduce inflammation and help prevent new breakouts from forming. Light-based therapies using FDA-approved LED devices can also improve acne when used regularly.
Cortisone injections can quickly reduce the size and pain of large, stubborn pimples. Extraction procedures allow dermatologists to safely remove deep pimples that won’t respond to other treatments.
## Natural and Supplemental Options
Some people find relief using natural approaches alongside medical treatments. Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial properties, but it must always be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to your skin. Never use pure tea tree oil directly on your skin.
Zinc supplements can reduce inflammation and oil production. You can get zinc from food sources like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and lentils, or you can take supplements after consulting with your doctor.
## Creating Your Treatment Plan
Think of acne treatment like climbing a ladder, starting with the mildest options at the bottom and moving up to stronger treatments as needed. Your dermatologist will help you create a personalized plan based on how severe your acne is and how your skin responds to treatment.
The most important step is seeing a registered dermatologist or skin specialist who can evaluate your specific situation. They can recommend the right combination of treatments for you, whether that’s adjusting your skincare routine, making lifestyle changes, using topical medications, taking oral medications, or getting professional treatments. Many people find that combining different approaches works better than relying on just one treatment.
Be patient with your treatment plan. Most hormonal acne treatments take several weeks or months to show results. Your dermatologist may adjust your plan along the way to find what works best for your skin.
## Sources
https://drankitmehra.com/blogs/hormonal-acne-causes-treatment-dermatologist-guide
https://www.marieclaire.co.uk/beauty/hormonal-acne
https://www.newriverdermatology.com/blog/how-to-manage-hormonal-acne-during-menopause
