Gender and Acne

During the adolescent years, it is equally likely that acne will occur in either sex.    But as we age, women are more likely to struggle with adult acne.  The primary reason for this fact is the ongoing hormonal changes that affect adult women.  Nearly half of all women experience acne flare-ups and increased facial oiliness during the week preceding menstruation.  Because males do not encounter monthly hormonal changes, adult acne is most often associated with females.

Speaking at ACADEMY ’04, the American Academy of Dermatology’s summer scientific session in New York, dermatologist Diane S. Berson, M.D., an assistant professor of dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University in New York, N.Y., discussed the causes of adult acne in women and various treatment options.  "When adult women experience acne outbreaks, hormones are usually the primary culprit," said Dr. Berson. "Hormonal acne can be particularly frustrating because it may not respond to the same over-the-counter treatments that worked for some women during their teenage years."

Other more serious conditions such as polycystic ovaries and adrenal hyperplasia can cause increased levels of the hormone androgen, which affects sebaceous oil production and can increase the occurrence of adult acne.  According to Dr. Berson. "...women with hormonal acne also may experience irregular menstrual cycles, obesity, infertility or diabetes. It’s vitally important for these women to consult with their physician, as a blood test can determine the cause of these symptoms and the best treatment option."