Acne is not just a teenage concern. For many women, acne persists well into adulthood or appears for the first time in their twenties, thirties, or beyond. Female acne often follows distinct patterns and responds to different triggers than acne in men, requiring treatment approaches that account for hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, and other uniquely female considerations.
At Honeydew, we understand these complexities and are committed to helping women find effective, personalized solutions for clearer skin.
Why Women Experience Acne Differently
Women experience acne differently than men largely due to hormonal influences. Monthly menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) all affect hormone levels, particularly androgens, which stimulate oil production in the skin. Many women notice that their acne worsens at specific times in their menstrual cycle, typically in the week before their period begins.
The location of acne in women is also distinctive. Women who have acne along their jawline and lower face tend to have good results from hormonal therapy. Similarly, women who continue to see acne along their lower face, jawline, and neck despite trying all sorts of treatments may want to consider hormonal approaches. Women struggling to clear acne on their chest or back may also benefit from these specialized treatments.
Hormonal Therapy: A Cornerstone of Women's Acne Treatment
Any medication that acts on hormones is called hormonal therapy. For women with acne driven by hormonal fluctuations, hormonal therapy can be remarkably effective. The most targeted treatment for hormonal acne in women is Spironolactone.
Spironolactone (Aldactone) may be considered for women and adolescent girls if oral antibiotics aren't helping. Doctors originally prescribed spironolactone to treat high blood pressure and for people who are retaining too much fluid. Dermatologists have been prescribing it for many years to treat acne and excess hair growth in women.
When other acne treatments don't work, spironolactone can effectively treat deep-seated, tender acne on the lower face, jawline, or neck. The medication works by blocking androgen receptors, thereby reducing the hormone's effect on oil glands.
This treatment is almost exclusively prescribed to women. Due to its anti-androgenic effects, it can cause undesirable side effects in men, such as breast development (gynecomastia). It is also not prescribed to individuals who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as it can interfere with fetal development.
When taking spironolactone, the most common side effects are painful periods and cramping, irregular periods, breast tenderness, and breast enlargement. These side effects may be decreased when women also take an oral contraceptive with spironolactone. Other possible side effects include fatigue, headache, and dizziness, which can be monitored and managed effectively with the right care team.
On average, women notice a decrease in breakouts and oiliness from spironolactone in a few weeks. Studies show that taking spironolactone at the same time every day can give you the best results. Spironolactone requires that you gradually increase the dose, so you will need to see your dermatologist every 4 to 6 weeks when you start taking it. At Honeydew, you can do these visits online from the comfort of your home instead of making monthly trips to see your dermatologist.
Accutane: The Gold Standard
Accutane (isotretinoin) is the most effective treatment for persistent acne of any severity. When hormonal treatments do not work, we typically recommend that patients consider Accutane. Accutane addresses the root causes of most acne, such as excess oil production that can clog pores and allow acne-causing bacteria to thrive.
Women must take extra precautions when taking Accutane, because Accutane may cause birth defects. When prescribed Accutane, women must wait thirty days before taking the medication to ensure that they do not become pregnant before starting treatment. Moreover, women must take two forms of contraception or practice abstinence to prevent pregnancy while taking Accutane.
Although Accutane has a reputation for side effects, newer treatment plans help to mitigate or eliminate side effects. Formulations like Absorica make it easier for patientsâ bodies to absorb the medication, meaning patients need to take a lower effective dose. Low-dose Accutane is a new way of prescribing the same treatment. With a low dose treatment plan, patients can achieve the same results as at regular doses, but over a longer period of time.
Acne Treatment During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Treatment options for pregnant women are limited due to the risk of side effects. Many standard acne medications pose risks to a developing fetus, making it crucial to work with a healthcare provider to identify safe alternatives.
Prescription azelaic acid (Azelex, Finacea) is an option during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This topical medication has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is also effective at lightening post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A macrolide might be an option for pregnant women who can't take tetracyclines such as Doxycycline.
Dapsone (Aczone) 5% gel twice daily is recommended for inflammatory acne, especially in women. This anti-inflammatory topical option is often well-tolerated and can be particularly beneficial for women during pregnancy.
You should tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before any acne treatment is prescribed. Oral isotretinoin has potential side effects that include severe birth defects. Women must not take Accutane while pregnant or become pregnant while on Accutane.
Your Partner in Women's Acne Treatment: Honeydew
Women face unique challenges when treating acne. Hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy considerations, and the distinctive patterns of female acne all require specialized knowledge and personalized care. Honeydew is committed to providing effective, evidence-based treatments tailored specifically to your needs as a woman.
Honeydew offers the most personalized treatments available to maximize results while minimizing side effects. Our providers can manage, adjust, and recommend treatments completely online to make sure you get the results you're looking for. We offer comprehensive hormonal therapy options, including spironolactone, as well as advanced options like low-dose Accutane and custom compounding of medications to simplify your routine.
Our entire process is 100% online. You can meet with your provider, get prescriptions sent to your preferred pharmacy, track your progress, and receive ongoing support from your care team, all from the comfort of home. We understand the physical and emotional toll that persistent acne can take, and we're here to help you find a solution that works for your unique situation.
Finding the right acne treatment can be a challenging experience, but you don't have to take it alone. With the right expert guidance and female-specific treatment approaches, clear skin is an attainable goal. Learn more about how Honeydew can partner with you to achieve healthier, clearer skin.
