Testosterone, whether naturally produced by the body or administered exogenously, can sometimes cause acne breakouts. This occurs because testosterone causes the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more sebum (oil). Excess sebum combined with dead skin cells can clog pores and lead to the development of pimples.
There are a few key things to understand about testosterone acne:
- Acne is a common side effect of testosterone treatment. Up to 40% of individuals on testosterone replacement therapy develop acne.
- Testosterone-induced acne can occur at any age. It is not limited to teenagers.
- The acne may appear on the face, back, chest, and other oil-prone areas.
- The severity can range from mild to severe, with painful cystic acne being possible.
The good news is that for most people,
testosterone acne does go away with proper management. Here are some tips:
Treatment Options
- Over-the-counter acne medications - Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and sulfur preparations can help unplug follicles and reduce bacteria. Look for cleansers, spot treatments, etc with these ingredients.
- Prescription acne medications - Speak to your healthcare provider about options like topical retinoids, oral antibiotics, oral contraceptives, etc. These can treat acne more effectively than OTC products.
- Steroid injections - Severe cystic acne may require intralesional corticosteroid injections to rapidly shrink large pimples and nodules.
- Maintenance - Continue using acne treatments even after your breakouts clear. This prevents new pimples from forming. Ongoing maintenance is key.
- Hormone modulation - Adjusting your testosterone dosage or frequency of administration may minimize fluctuations in levels and sebum production
Lifestyle Tips
- Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Use warm water and pat dry.
- Avoid excessive washing, irritation, picking/popping which can worsen breakouts.
- Shampoo hair frequently if prone to body acne - prevents oil and products from dripping down.
- Avoid oils and thick creams/lotions if prone to body acne. Use oil-free skin products.
- Shower right after exercise to rinse away dirt, oil, and sweat.
- Choose loose, breathable clothing that won't trap heat and sweat on the skin. Change after getting sweaty.
- Reduce stress levels through yoga, meditation, etc. Stress can worsen hormonal acne.
Consider contacting the endocrinologists at Hormone Harmony Clinic to explore adjusting your testosterone regimen if troublesome acne develops. Through evidence-based protocols and regular lab testing, their experts can help stabilize hormones, optimize dosing strategies, mitigate side effects, and get breakouts under control.
In most men, being diligent with treatment and optimizing
testosterone therapy helps testosterone-related acne improve and eventually clear. However, acne can be persistent and difficult to treat in some individuals even after adjusting testosterone doses and trying multiple therapies.
Men with severe or treatment-resistant acne may need to discontinue testosterone altogether if other measures fail to resolve the acne. This would be a last resort option after attempting the treatments discussed here under guidance from your healthcare professional. The risks and benefits would need evaluation.
In summary:
Yes, testosterone acne often does go away in time with appropriate treatment. Being proactive with medications, lifestyle changes, hormone adjustments, and seeing a dermatologist or endocrinologist can help mitigate testosterone-related acne. Consistency is vital - zero in on an effective regimen and stick with it. If acne becomes severe and intolerable, discontinuing testosterone may sometimes become medically necessary. Stay engaged with your healthcare providers throughout treatment.
