Hormonal acne - what are my options besides Accutane?

Question

So I’m from the UK and I’ve never met with a acne specialist, only free NHS nurses who suggested I go on accutane. I have pitted scarring and that’s my main concern. I’m on the pill and it’s controlled my acne nicely with occasional cysts that develop into scars. There’s strong chance I have pcos (had an mri showing small sacs) and that my acne is a hormonal problem which means acne will come back after accutane. I don’t want to stop treating my scars. I feel stuck.

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. You are correct that hormonal acne will return despite Accutane. There are a few treatment options for hormonal acne such as birth control pills, spironolactone, topical Winlevi cream, etc. Each option comes with different side effects and expectations. If you have PCOS, then there are other oral medications that are effective treatments. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist to discuss treatment options for hormonal acne, and follow up with your OBGYN regarding your MRI and possible diagnosis of PCOS. Take care and good luck.

Hormonal acne - what are my options besides Accutane?

Answers (1)