Birth Control

• Certain factors may cause hormones to become unbalanced, particularly in a woman's body. Menopause, menstruation and pregnancy are specific times when acne may be more problematic, due to the cyclic changes that occur. In these instances, a low dose birth control pill may be prescribed to regulate the hormones and eliminate acne.
  
  

Isotrentinoin

• Isotrentinoin, or Accutane, is a prescription medication that may be effective for individuals with severe acne, such as cystic or nodular acne. This medication is a derivative of vitamin A that may be taken in pill form. It works by reducing the amount of oil that is produced within the glands. This medication should be taken with extreme caution, however, due to the possibility of birth defects that may result if used in pregnancy.
  
  

Antibiotics

• Antibiotics work in several ways to treat hormonal acne. The most important may be by decreasing the number of bacteria occurring in and around the follicle. Antibiotics also reduce the exasperated chemicals that the white blood cells produce. Additionally, antibiotics may reduce the inflammatory response. The most frequently prescribed antibiotics for acne are Tetracycline, Erythromycin and Minocycline.
  
  

Vitamin A

• Vitamin A derivatives, also known as retinoids, are effective at unplugging existing comedones and may allow other topical medicines, like antibiotics, to enter the follicles. Unlike Isotrentinoin, other formulas used, such as Retin-A, are availabe in creams and gels. Using a combination of medications to eliminate acne and prohibit its return may be an effective method of treatment.
  
  

Washes &Creams

• Washes and creams may be effective for individuals with mild hormonal acne. Over the counter washes and creams that contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid may help dry up existing acne, while destroying bacteria that may clog pores.