Steroid And Acne: How Are They Related?
Steroid and acne are two very common terms that are often used together.
People use steroids for a variety of reasons, such as to improve their athletic performance or to build muscle mass, steroids may also have a number of negative side effects, one of which is acne.
Acne is a condition that affects the skin and could cause pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. It is a very common condition, and people of all ages may suffer from it.
Acne is often caused by hormones, and steroids could increase the levels of hormones in the body, which may lead to the development of acne.
If you are considering taking steroids, or if you are already taking them, it is important to be aware of the risks involved.
This article will provide you with everything you need to know about steroids and acne.
Contents
What Is Steroid Acne?
Steroid acne is a condition that could occur when a person takes steroids.
This may be usually found on the face, back, and chest. Moreover, the arms and legs may also be affected.
Steroid acne looks like other types of acne, but it is often redder and more inflamed. Steroid acne may also be painful.
It could be usually temporary and will go away once the person stops taking the steroids. However, in some cases, the acne may be permanent.
Causes Of Steroid Acne
The primary causes of Steroid Acne such as considering oral, injectable, or inhalation steroid medications leads to acne.
Prescription Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are a type of medication that is commonly prescribed to treat a variety of conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and arthritis.
Corticosteroids are also sometimes used to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
While corticosteroids are generally safe and effective, they could sometimes cause side effects, such as steroid acne.
Steroid acne typically appears on the face, chest, and back, and may range from mild to severe.
Steroid acne is most common in people who use high doses of corticosteroids of time, but it could also occur in females who have periods.
As a result, consuming steroids could be one of the things to avoid during periods.
Anabolic Steroids Or Bodybuilding Steroids
Anabolic steroids are a group of synthetic drugs that are designed to mimic the effects of the male hormone testosterone.
These drugs are often used by athletes and bodybuilders to enhance their performance and increase their muscle mass.
However, anabolic may also have several harmful side effects, one of which is steroid acne.
Different Forms Of Steroids Acne
There are different forms of Steroids-
Acne Vulgaris
Millions of individuals all around the world struggle with acne vulgaris, a common skin disorder.
It is characterized by the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads on the face, chest, and back.
Acne vulgaris could be a source of great frustration and embarrassment, but there are treatments available that may help to clear the skin.
Malassezia Folliculitis
It is a type of folliculitis, a condition that occurs when the hair follicles are inflamed.
Malassezia folliculitis is caused by a fungus called Malassezia, which is a normal skin yeast.
In people with Malassezia folliculitis, the yeast gets into the hair follicles and multiplies, causing inflammation.
This may occur on any part of the body, but it is most common on the face, chest, and back.
It typically appears as small, itchy bumps that may be red, white, or yellow.
Malassezia folliculitis is not contagious and may usually be treated with antifungal medications.
Treatment Options Of Steroid Acne
If you are suffering from steroid acne, there are a few treatment options available to you.
Topical treatments such as retinoids, antibiotics, and benzoyl peroxide could be effective in treating steroid acne.
Oral drugs like isotretinoin may be indicated in more severe situations.
Retinoids
Retinoids are a class of drugs that are used to treat a variety of conditions, including acne.
They work by reducing the production of sebum, which is an oily substance that may contribute to the development of acne.
Retinoids could be taken orally or applied directly to the skin.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics may help to reduce the severity of acne. This is because antibiotics help to kill the bacteria that could cause acne.
Antibiotics may also help to reduce the inflammation that could cause acne.
Reducing inflammation may help to reduce the redness, swelling, and pain that could occur with acne.
In addition, antibiotics may help to reduce the risk of scarring. This is because inflammation could lead to the formation of scars.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is an organic compound that is commonly used as a medication to treat acne.
It works by reducing the production of sebum, natural oil that may cause pimples and other blemishes.
This compound is found in a variety of skincare products and is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
When applied to the skin, it helps to kill the bacteria that could cause acne and inflammation.
Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin (also known as Accutane) is a medication that is typically used to treat severe acne.
This medication is a form of vitamin A, and it works by reducing the production of oil in the skin.
It also helps to prevent the formation of new pimples. Isotretinoin is usually only prescribed when other treatments have not worked.
It is a powerful medication that may have serious side effects, so it is important to talk to your doctor before starting treatment.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline works by reducing the inflammation associated with acne.
It is thought to do this by inhibiting the production of proteins that are involved in the inflammation process.
Minocycline
Minocycline works by reducing the inflammation that causes acne.
It is thought to do this by inhibiting the production of certain pro-inflammatory chemicals.
Minocycline is available in both oral and topical formulations and is typically used once or twice daily.
Tetracycline
Tetracycline works to reduce steroid acne by reducing the production of sebum.
Tetracycline is typically taken orally, in the form of a pill or capsule.
It is important to follow the directions on the prescription label and to take the medication exactly as prescribed.
Conclusion
Steroid usage frequently results in steroid acne. The symptoms will typically go away if the person quits using or abusing steroids.
They are treatable with medication and can even be prevented if the dosage is mild and supervised under an expert.
One should speak with their doctor about available treatments and prescription-strength medications if at-home solutions do not relieve the symptoms.