How to manage hormonal acne and breakouts before periods?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 25 years old, and I always have breakouts before a week of my periods. I think it is a hormonal imbalance. I get big, red, and painful acne around my jawline and lower cheek, and I have a high testosterone level. I have had these kinds of breakouts almost every month for more than a year now. I am not under any treatment now, but I used a topical cream containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, and mometasone.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Based on your symptoms, the diagnosis is acne vulgaris (grade 2). Do not apply mometasone cream over the face, as it is a steroid cream. Please get an ultrasound of the abdomen and pelvis during the second and third days of the menstrual cycle to rule out PCOD (polycystic ovarian disease). I would suggest:

1. Benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin at night, very less in amount.

2. Azelaic acid cream daily in the morning.

Consult a specialist doctor, discuss with him or her and start taking the medicines after their consent. Please review it after three weeks.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.