Hormonal acne is an inflammatory skin condition caused by fluctuating hormone levels and is characterized by tender red spots which may affect the face, neck, chest and back. Acne is most common in early puberty when the production of hormones, known as androgens, increases. Pregnancy and menstruation also affect hormone levels which may trigger a bout of acne or worsen existing acne. Acne is often treated with topical cream containing azelaic acid or benzoyl peroxide or oral antibiotics. Hormonal acne may also benefit from a course of contraceptive pills that contain anti-androgens. Some supplements may also help to alleviate acne symptoms. Talk to your doctor before using them.
Zinc
Zinc may lessen the severity of acne, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, an article published in the July 2010 issue of "Dermatologic Clinic" states that the success rate of zinc treatment varies greatly according to the mode of administration and the exact zinc preparation used. Lead author, Y.S. Bae, adds that there is insufficient evidence to support the use of zinc as a first-line treatment for acne; however, it may be a useful adjunctive treatment. Talk to your doctor before using supplemental zinc to treat your hormone acne. High doses may cause side effects including anemia and vomiting. In addition, it may interact with tetracycline, a prescription acne treatment.
Niacinamide
An article published in the April 2004 issue of the "Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology" notes that nicacinamide may have an anti-inflammatory effect on acne-prone skin. The article's lead author, W. Gehring, adds that acne sufferers may find it beneficial to use skin creams containing niacinamide. The drug information website, RxList, notes that niacinamide is likely safe when taken orally although it may cause side effects including flushed itchy skin on the face, neck and chest, and headaches. It may also interact with some drugs including diabetes medicines. Talk to your doctor before taking supplemental niacinamide.
Guggul
Guggul is an herb derived from the resin of a plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine and be as effective as tetracycline, a study published in the October 1994 issue of the "Journal of Dermatology" found. However, more recent data is lacking. Do not use this herb if you have a hormone-sensitive condition such as breast or ovarian cancer as this herb has estrogen-like effects. Guggul interacts with a number of drugs including anti-coagulants and birth control pills. Talk to your doctor before using this herb to treat hormonal acne.
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