NEW YORK, July 29 (UPI) -- Chronic, persistent acne caused by hormones is common for some women but can be treated in a variety of ways, U.S. dermatologists said Thursday.
Hormonal acne is usually linked to androgens, hormones that stimulate oil glands and hair follicles in the skin, Berson said. Treatments include topical medicinal cream and oral antibiotics for severe inflammation.
Oral contraceptives, which contain estrogen and progestin, can also treat hormonal acne by decreasing androgen activity.
Acne also could be a symptom of more serious medical conditions, such as polycystic ovaries if accompanied by excess facial hair and hair loss, cautioned Dr. Diane S. Berson of Cornell University.
Other benefits of oral contraceptives may include decreased osteoporosis risk and protection against some cancer, but oral contraceptives may cause side effects such as nausea and more serious complications, such as blood clots or strokes, Berson said.
