This is acne due to the fluctuations in your hormones. It can occur during puberty and can also affect adults of any age. Factors may contribute to the occurrence of acne, including menstruation and menopause. Hormonal imbalances trigger acne in adults with underlying medical conditions.

Signs and Symptoms:

Overall skin inflammation, oil (SEBUM) production in the pores, clogged skin cells in hair follicles, production of acne-causing bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Causes

Hormonal Fluctuations:

Hormonal Acne may be caused by fluctuations of hormones from:

• Menstruation
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome
• Menopause
• Androgen levels

Treatment Options:

1. Oral Contraceptives:

• Drospirenone
• Norgestimate
• Norethindrone

Note: This option may not be applicable if you have a history of blood clots, high blood pressure, or breast cancer, and you should avoid smoking.

2. Antibiotics:

• Tetracycline
• Minocycline
• Erythromycin
• Doxycycline

Typically need to be continued for three months. Topical antibiotics may also be prescribed.

3. Isotretinoin:

• This needs to be prescribed by the doctor and taken for 16 – 20 weeks.
• It is crucial to use isotretinoin if you are planning on becoming pregnant or if you are or could be pregnant, as there is a risk to the unborn child.
• Women must have a pregnancy test before starting the medication and use reliable contraceptives before and during its use.
• Sexually active women of childbearing age must use two forms of contraceptives before, during, and after treatment with isotretinoin.
• People with severe acne who need to use isotretinoin must be referred to a dermatologist who is registered with the U.S Food and Drug monitoring Program for Drug.

Other Procedures:

A dermatologist may recommend or use a combination of the following:

• Laser and Light Therapy
• Chemical peels
• Drainage and Extraction to remove cysts