How to Treat Acne When on Steroids

Acne is a skin condition generally caused by the interaction of hormones, bacteria and oil in the skin. Acne can include cysts, pimples or abscesses, and can be categorized as mild, moderate or severe. Certain medications, such as steroids, stimulate the sebaceous glands, which often leads to acne. Steroid acne is usually larger than other acne, flatter, and sometimes pustular.

Things You'll Need

• Spironolactone (women only)
• Vitamin A supplements
• Vitamin B5 supplements
• Face wash containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
• Shampoo containing ketoconazole

Instructions

Instructions

1. If you are female, consider taking an anti-androgen treatment such as spironolactone. It blocks the effects of androgen, which leads to a decrease in acne. Spironolactone is available by prescription only, and appropriate doses vary. Consult with a doctor for prescription information and dosage.

2. Take supplements. Vitamins B5 and A may counteract the acne side effects of the steroids. The proper dosage of vitamin B5 per day, for men and women, is one to 10 grams per day. The most effective dosage of vitamin A, for men and women, is 10,000 to 100,000 UI (international units) per day.

3. Wash your face with a medicated face wash. A face wash that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide will help to remove acne-causing bacteria from your pores. Use it once daily at the most, as such treatments can be drying. Use a light moisturizer after each use. You may also use topical benzoyl peroxide as a spot treatment for acne.

4. Lower cortisol levels with yoga. Levels of this hormone rise because of stress and anxiety. High cortisol levels often increase acne, specifically for a person taking steroids. Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga are both effective at de-stressing and relaxing the body.

5. Use a shampoo containing ketoconazole. This is an anti-fungal ingredient that may help to clear up body acne caused by steroids. To use the shampoo, wet your hair thoroughly. Apply ketoconazole shampoo to the scalp and hair and massage it gently into your scalp. Allow the shampoo to sit for five minutes before washing it out with warm water.

6. Stop taking steroids. Once you have stopped taking them, the acne will clear up. It's best that you don't quit taking them cold turkey. Speak to a health care professional about tapering off your dosage.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not take spironolactone if you are pregnant or nursing.

• Consult a health care professional before taking, or ceasing to take, any supplements.

References

• Merck
• Acne Talks
• Everything Acne