Spironolactone for acne and facial hair?

[tiredpoet]

I've been reading around this forum for a while and I hope some of you migth help me:

I started breaking out at age 10 (yes, 10!!) and never stopped. I'm 33 now. I've tried it all, from antibiotics to accutane (twice), every prescription topical option around, fish oil, diet, etc. I am currently using a benzaclin topical treatment twice a day, and my skin is okay, but still not clear and I still break out, particularly around my chin. Lately my neck and back have been breaking out like crazy, and they are usually generally clear. (nothing's changed in my life or routine, so I can't figure this out).

Anyway, I've always concentrated so much on the acne that I never really asked any doctor about my other embarassing skin problem: I'm blonde with fair skin. I have a TON of blonde facial hair that looks terrible, especially in direct sunlight, and I get course dark hairs all over my chin. I pluck them or use that simple touch hair trimmer thing, but to honest, I'm quite tired of my skin, particularly my face, taking up so much of my precious time! I mentioned it to my pc once recently and her explanation was that I am "getting older." But I've had this problem since the acne started!
I've asked to have my hormone levels tested, but my doctor (long story) always said it's unnecessary. I had a full endo workup a few years ago and all that was fine.

My question is this: I've been reading about this spironolactone and I really think it's something I should try. I'm not sure if I will have better luck asking a dermatologist for it or going to my pc, or maybe even my gyn. Any suggestions? In almost 20 years no dermatologist has ever so much as mentioned this drug to me.

Also, for anyone who's used it, does spiro really help excess facial hair? Does it slow down growth, or stop it?

I would be so grateful for any insight from anyone! Thanks!!

[tiggerbuddy]

you should check out the hormonal acne board on a different website (sorry, I think the rules here prohibit me from stating the name of the website)...lots of helpful posts about spiro though! Spiro is my wonder drug. it's the only thing that REALLY cured my acne and also minimized my facial hair. I definitely recommend seeing an endocrinologist, as they seem to be the most familiar with spiro since they specialize in hormones. good luck!

[tiredpoet]

Thank you!!!!!!!! I will check that out.

[tigereye1983]

Hi,

My acne problems seemed similar to yours. While I'm cautious about messing with hormones as there are just as many downsides, my acne cleared up miraculously when I started using Yaz birth control, which has Spironolactone in it. I saw results almost immediately. They recommend Yaz for women who have too much testosterone--which can manifest in acne and facial hair. Of course, hormonal birth control can have tons of side effects, so you have to weigh the positives. Hope this helps!

[kesae]

Drink spearmint tea while you wait for a prescription. My face has become less oily since I started drinking it but the taste isn't that great.