Doctors prescribe spironolactone to treat several disorders related to an excess of the hormone aldosterone. Seborrheic acne, which is caused in part when your sebaceous glands produce too much oil, can be exacerbated by the presence of aldosterone. Though patients usually take spironolactone orally, some small studies have shown that it might help cure acne when applied topically. In 1990, Dr. L. Califofano and colleagues from the Istituto di Dermatologia in Italy treated 20 acne patients with a one-month course of 5 percent spironolactone applied topically. Acne cleared completely in 30 percent of patients and showed significant improvement in a total of 65 percent of patients.
Step 1
Discuss the idea of applying topical spironolactone with your doctor before proceeding with treatment. Even though researchers have noted no side effects in studies of the drug's topical application, your doctor may have insights into the risks of depressing your hormone levels, especially if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Step 2
Apply a thin layer of spironolactone cream twice daily to a small section of your skin for a few days. Monitor that section of skin for signs of allergy or irritation. If excessive redness or hives develop, discontinue use of the spironolactone.
Step 3
Apply a thin layer of spironolactone to the entire acne-affected area of your skin twice daily. Continue treatment for a month to see if your condition improves.
Step 4
Discontinue use of the cream if your skin shows no improvement after one month.
Things You'll Need
- Spironolactone cream, 5 percent
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