Acne is a disorder that affects the skin’s oil glands and hair follicles. Pores are connected to these oil glands. These glands make an oily substance called sebum. The pores connect to the glands by a canal called a follicle. Inside the follicles, oil carries dead skin cells to the surface of the skin. A thin hair also grows through the follicle and out to the skin.
Sometimes the hair, sebum and skin cells all clump together to form a plug. The bacteria in the plug causes swelling. Then, when the plug starts to break down, a pimple can grow.
Hormonal acne in female adults usually occurs around the jaw line and the lower cheeks.
The most common types are:
Although it can occur during puberty, when your hormones are in flux, it can happen to women of any age for any condition that causes a hormone imbalance.
There are several medications used to treat hormonal acne. “Spironolactone is a highly effective and inexpensive prescription pill that works as a magic bullet for hormonal acne in women,” says Vista Dermatology’s Dr. Karla Muñoz.
There are also ways for you to care for your skin.
“Try not to pick at or overscrub your skin, as this will only increase inflammation and redness,” advises Dr. Muñoz. “Following a low ketogenic diet has helped some of my patients with hormonal acne.”
“If you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant, I recommend using a glycolic acid cleanser and prescription topicals that do not contain retinoids,” she adds.
Do you need treatment for hormonal acne or various other skin conditions? Call Vista Dermatology at (210) 698-0500 for an appointment.
27511 IH-10 W Bldg, 2, Boerne, TX 78006
P: (210) 698-0500 | F: (210) 698-0600