What is hormonal, menstrual and cystic acne?
Acne is a common skin condition affecting people from diverse demographics, but not everyone experiences the same type of acne. Types like hormonal, menstrual, and cystic acne have their own unique triggers and patient profiles. In this comprehensive article, we'll discuss these specific types of acne, their causes, treatments, and who is most likely to experience them, all substantiated by scientific research.
Hormonal Acne
What Is It?
Hormonal acne manifests as breakouts triggered by hormonal fluctuations. Though commonly associated with adolescence, this type can also occur during various life stages, particularly in women.
Who Can Actually Get This?
While teenagers of both genders are common candidates due to puberty, adult women are also susceptible, especially during pregnancy, menopause, and menstrual cycles.
Causes and Treatment
Causes include increased levels of androgens like testosterone, stimulating the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum (Ebling, 1996). Treatments range from topical applications to hormonal therapies (Thiboutot et al., 1999).
Citation:
- Ebling, F. J. G. (1996). Hormonal control of sebaceous glands. Dermatology, 193(2), 192–202.
- Thiboutot, D., Gollnick, H., Bettoli, V., Dréno, B., Kang, S., Leyden, J. J., ... & Torres, V. (1999). New insights into the management of acne: an update from the Global Alliance to Improve Outcomes in Acne group. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 60(5), S1–S50.
Menstrual Acne
What Is It?
Menstrual acne is a type of hormonal acne appearing in relation to the menstrual cycle, usually surfacing a week before and lasting until the cycle is complete.
Who Can Actually Get This?
This type specifically affects women who are menstruating, typically between the ages of 12 and 51.
Causes and Treatment
Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen and progesterone contribute to increased sebum production and breakouts (Stoll, 2001). Over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes may help (Lucky, 1995).
Citation:
- Stoll, S. (2001). The hormonal causes of premenstrual acne. Cutis, 67(5 Suppl), 13–14.
- Lucky, A. W. (1995). Quantitative documentation of a premenstrual flare of facial acne in adult women. Archives of Dermatology, 131(4), 405–407.
Cystic Acne
What Is It?
Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, marked by painful, inflamed cysts and a high risk of scarring if untreated.
Who Can Actually Get This?
Both teenagers and adults can experience cystic acne, and it can affect both males and females, although it's more prevalent in young men.
Causes and Treatment
The overactive sebaceous glands and hormonal changes are primary factors (Zaenglein et al., 2016). Due to its severity, treatment often involves prescription medications and may even require surgical intervention (Titus & Hodge, 2012).
Citation:
- Zaenglein, A. L., Pathy, A. L., Schlosser, B. J., Alikhan, A., Baldwin, H. E., Berson, D. S., ... & Bhushan, R. (2016). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 74(5), 945–973.
- Titus, S., & Hodge, J. (2012). Diagnosis and treatment of acne. American Family Physician, 86(8), 734–740.
Conclusion
Understanding the nuances between different types of acne—hormonal, menstrual, and cystic—can empower you to seek the most effective treatment. Whether you're an adolescent entering puberty, an adult woman navigating hormonal changes, or someone dealing with the severe impacts of cystic acne, there are targeted treatment options available. Consult with a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. Advances in dermatological research offer a beacon of hope for effective acne management, ensuring that clearer skin is an achievable goal for all.