How to Treat Hormonal Female Acne

If you're an adult female suffering from acne, you're not alone. While it may seem like your peers outgrew their pimples long ago, there are millions of adult women who are still dealing with acne well into their 40's and 50's. It is almost always because of hormonal changes or imbalances, but in most cases it is treatable.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Use a cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, such as Neutrogena or Proactiv Solution. Using a facial cleanser with one of these ingredients along with a corresponding lotion has made a huge difference for many women. Philosophy brand has "Completely Clear Skin Kit" that not only clears acne, but also prevents post acne discoloration and even reduces the signs of aging.

2. Consult your doctor if a regular cleansing regimen is not enough. Birth control pills are a common prescription used to fight female acne. OrthoTryCyclen and Estrostep are two of the most common forms. This does not work for everyone, and often requires another form of regular treatment such as use of an over the counter or prescription cleanser.

3. If the problem is a more severe hormonal imbalance, your doctor should be able to identify the problem and provide the proper hormone treatments. These treatments block the stimulating effect of androgens on the oil glands. This gives the best result because it prevents the acne from building up in the first place as opposed to treating what is already there.

4. As a last resort, Accutane is a prescription drug that is highly concentrated with Vitamin A that has shown to treat serious recurring acne. This drug has serious side effects, such as birth defects if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, depression and suicide. Accutane usually clears up acne permanently, but can cause consistently dry skin. This drug is recommended only as a last resort and for the most serious acne conditions.

Tips & Warnings

• If the problem has been going on for quite some time, the most important thing to do is consult your doctor or dermatologist. They will know how to identify the cause and recommend what is best for you, whether it be a hormone treatment, birth control, or a simple cleansing regimen.
• Many of the drugs and treatments used to treat acne can have serious side effects if not used properly. It can't be stressed enough how important it is to listen to your doctor or dermatologist and take their advice.