Can a pill really cure adult acne?
Teenage spots are one thing, but tackling them alongside the wrinkles and dryness that come as part of ageing? That feels like a double blow. And it’s one that plenty of us are suffering: a 2015 UK study found a 200 per cent rise in the number of adults seeking acne treatment over a year, with women five times more likely to be affected due to hormonal changes during menstrual cycles, pregnancy and contraception use.
But now help could be at hand.According to new research from the University of Pennsylvania, the diuretic drug spironolactone works just as well as antibiotics in treating hormonal acne. Given the potential health time bomb of increasing antibiotic resistance, it’s welcome news.
‘It’s clear that a safe alternative to oral antibiotics could have a huge benefit, and our data shows spironolactone may be that alternative,’ says the study’s lead author, dermatologist John S Barbieri.
‘I’ve been using it for years to treat hormonal acne,’ says Harley Street dermatologist Dr Nick Lowe, who prescribes it privately. ‘But most GPs aren’t aware it can be used in this way and it’s generally prescribed for mildly high blood pressure. This study may change that.’
Dr Lowe has seen an increase in women experiencing spots in their 30s and 40s, which he calls ‘post- Pill acne’. ‘What they have in common is they have been taking hormonal contraceptives in their teens and 20s, which we’ve found can “hold back” acne,’ he says.
‘Or they change their contraception method after having children, or become perimenopausal, and these hormonal changes trigger acne.’ Spironolactone blocks the effects of male hormones, meaning it’s not a treatment option for men.
It takes around three months to work and rare side-effects can include breast tenderness, bloating and weight gain, so it’s only used in more severe cases. You can try to nip bad skin in the bud first with Dr Lowe’s anti-blemish treatment.
Clear winners
Acclenz Advanced Action Spot Gel, £20, Dr Nick Lowe
Dab on at the first sign of a spot.
Effaclar Duo+, £16, La Roche-Posay
An anti-acne hero from a cult French brand.
4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Foundation, £29, Pür
Covers blemishes brilliantly.
Blemish + Age Cleanser Gel, £37, Skinceuticals
A luxe gel for older skin
Clarifying Medicated Foaming Facial Wash, £22, Skin Laundry
With salicylic acid.
