Hormonal Acne
Acne is a common skin problem that affects millions of people around the world. While acne can be caused by a variety of factors, hormonal acne is one of the most common types. Hormonal acne is caused by an imbalance of hormones in the body, particularly an excess of androgens.
Androgens are male hormones that are present in both men and women. When there is an excess of androgens in the body, the sebaceous glands in the skin produce more oil than usual. This excess oil can clog the pores, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Hormonal acne is most common in teenagers and young adults, as this is a time of hormonal changes in the body. Women may also experience hormonal acne during pregnancy, menstrual cycles, and menopause.
Symptoms of Hormonal Acne
The symptoms of hormonal acne include:
- Pimples that appear on the lower face, chin, and jawline
- Pimples that are deep and cystic
- Pimples that are painful to the touch
- Pimples that appear before or during menstruation
- Pimples that do not respond to over-the-counter acne treatments
Treatments for Hormonal Acne
Treatments for hormonal acne may include:
- Prescription medications, such as birth control pills, spironolactone, and isotretinoin
- Topical medications, such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide
- Lifestyle changes, such as stress reduction and a healthy diet
Bacterial Acne
Bacterial acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is another common type of acne. Bacterial acne is caused by the overgrowth of bacteria on the skin, particularly a type of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes.
When the pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, the bacteria that normally live on the skin can grow and multiply. This can lead to inflammation and the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Symptoms of Bacterial Acne
The symptoms of bacterial acne include:
- Pimples that appear on the face, chest, and back
- Pimples that are red and inflamed
- Pimples that contain pus
- Pimples that respond to over-the-counter acne treatments
- Pimples that may leave scars
Treatments for Bacterial Acne
Treatments for bacterial acne may include:
- Over-the-counter acne treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid
- Prescription medications, such as antibiotics and retinoids
- Lifestyle changes, such as regular cleansing and avoiding oily or greasy products
The Bottom Line
While hormonal acne and bacterial acne share some similarities, they are caused by different factors and require different treatments. If you are struggling with acne, it is important to speak with a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause of your acne and develop an effective treatment plan.
By understanding the differences between hormonal acne and bacterial acne, you can take steps to manage your acne and achieve clearer, healthier skin.