Navigating the Intersection of Hormonal Therapy and Acne Management in Trans Youth
January 2025
in “
ARC Journal of Dermatology
”
Studysummary This study discusses the importance of careful dermatological care for transgender youth receiving hormonal therapies, cautioning that acne treatments can interfere with hormone replacement therapy and emphasizing the need for a collaborative interdisciplinary approach to support both acne management and overall well-being.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The article explores the challenges of managing acne in transgender youth undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT), emphasizing the need for individualized, hormone-informed treatment strategies. Testosterone therapy can worsen acne in transmasculine individuals, while feminizing regimens may alleviate it, requiring careful selection of non-hormonal or tailored acne treatments to avoid interfering with HRT. The psychological impact of acne, compounded by gender dysphoria and discrimination, underscores the necessity for interdisciplinary care involving dermatologists, endocrinologists, and mental health professionals. The article calls for inclusive healthcare environments and research that includes transgender individuals to develop evidence-based guidelines, ultimately enhancing the overall health and quality of life for transgender youth.