Because hormonal acne is an "inside" issue, dermatologists agree that oral prescriptions are often the most effective. In fact, Dr. MacGregor said that one of the hallmarks of hormonal acne is that it is typically resistant to over-the-counter remedies. The ultimate goal is to regulate haywire hormone fluctuations from the inside out.
"We almost always need to use oral medication to treat hormonal acne," she said. "Birth control pills — [which] regulate cycles and reduce acne — and spironolactone — which blocks androgen hormone receptors in the skin — are the typical medications used. Occasionally, a trial course of isotretinoin is used for severe cases but doesn't always work. For mild cases, topical Aczone (dapsone) is a very well-tolerated prescription anti-inflammatory that has some efficacy in hormonal acne."
It's important to talk to your dermatologist about a treatment plan that works best for your skin.
