There are two types of acne treatment for women: topical and hormonal. Topical treatments address the symptoms of acne, such as oily skin, redness, clogged pores and bacteria. Hormonal treatments address the hormonal fluctuations which women experience before menstruation.
OTC Topical Treatments
The active ingredients in topical treatments are salicylic acid and benzyol peroxide. Salicylic acid helps to unclog pores, while benzyol peroxide kills bacteria. Sulfur and resorcinol are effective against acne symptoms as well. These products can cause dry skin and irritation, but these side effects diminish over time.
Prescription Topical Treatments
A dermatologist can recommend stronger medications, such as vitamin A derivatives (tretinoin, adapalene) and antibiotics (benzaclin, benzamycin). These drugs reduce clogged hair pores and kill bacteria, respectively. A much more potent drug, called isotretinoin, is used to treat deep, scarring cysts. The side effects of isotretinoin include dry eyes, nosebleeds and sensitivity to the sun. It can cause serious birth defects, so pregnant women shouldn't use it.
Hormonal Treatments
Oral contraceptives containing norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol are effective at reducing acne. Side effects includes tenderness of the breast, headaches and nausea. A doctor can also prescribe androgen receptor blockers, such as spironolactone and cyproterone acetate, for the treatment of acne in women.
