In order to find the most effective treatment, dermatologists often look to a woman's hormones to explain persistent acne or adult-onset acne. 2001 Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., dermatologist Diane Berson, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, New York University, New York, talked about the role hormones play in adult onset acne and the hormonal treatments that are available to control the outbreaks. However, as we get older our bodies change, as can the type of acne, so traditional treatments may no longer be effective. The Role of Hormones in Acne Hormonal acne is most often influenced by androgens in the body. Androgens are hormones that stimulate the sebaceous glands and hair follicles in the skin.
Stress can also affect the levels of androgens, resulting in further breakouts.
These adult-onset acne flares occur most often on the lower face, chin and jawline of adult women. Most women with acne have normal serum levels of androgens. Women with these symptoms may have increased androgen production, and a hormonal work-up that includes an evaluation for adrenal, ovarian or pituitary abnormalities may be indicated. A laboratory evaluation of hormone production may help uncover abnormalities or tumors and therefore help determine which hormonal treatment is right for them. Hormonal Acne Treatment Options Once diagnosed with hormonal acne, treatment options include oral contraceptive pills, corticosteroids and spironolactone.