While there is no cure for acne, there are a number of prescription and over the counter acne treatments available to help you manage it.
Acne is actually very common in women with PCOS due to the high level of
androgens seen in the disease. In addition to traditional acne treatments and cleaners, here are other options specific to
PCOS-related acne:
- Birth control pills are the usual first choice. They can help to reduce the production of androgens by regulating the menstrual cycle.
- Spironolactone is a diuretic, which also reduces androgen production.
- Metformin can reduce insulin resistance, which also has been linked to abnormal androgen levels.
Traditional acne treatments include:
- Benzoyl peroxide. It is found in many over-the-counter cleansers, clearing dirt and debris from the pore and killing bacteria that can lead to inflammation.
- Salicylic acid. It works by helping the skin slough off dead skin cells, effectively keeping the follicles clear of debris.
- Retinoids. It is formed from vitamin A and helps to unclog pores and increase cell turnover.
- Topical antibiotics. It can help reduce inflammation by killing the bacteria propionibacteria acnes, which is commonly found in acne.
- Antibiotics and benzoyl peroxide. Combination products tend to work better than either product alone.
- Accutane. It is an acne treatment usually used for when traditional acne medications do not work. You must be very careful to not get pregnant while taking this medication.
If you are having difficulty getting rid of your acne with over-the-counter cleaners, toners and lotions, it may be time to seek out the advice of a dermatologist for other acne treatment options. They can help you select the best products and medications to manage your acne. Check out
UCompare Healthcare to find a dermatologist near you.
