FDA approves new type of acne treatment for the first time in 40 years
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions among all ages, affecting 40 to 50 million people in the U.S. alone. While there are many prescription and overthe-counter acne treatments available, there have not been any new FDA-approved methods of treating this condition since isotretinoin was approved in 1982 — until now.
Prescription Winlevi is the first new FDA-approved treatment for acne since then, and its approach is different from that of other acne treatments that target acne-causing bacteria or sebum (oil) production.
Winlevi is aimed at treating a specific type of acne called hormonal acne. If you have acne but don’t want to take antibiotics, Accutane, or birth control, this may be the option for you.
WHAT’S DIFFERENT ABOUT HORMONAL ACNE?
There are three main causes of acne in general:
Acne-causing bacteria called P. acnes
Overproduction of sebum (oil)
Clogged pores
In the case of hormonal acne, hormone imbalances can cause your skin to produce excessive amounts of sebum, which most often leads to cystic acne along the chin and jawline. Many women in their 20s, 30s and 40s struggle with hormonal acne before their menstrual cycle begins each month or during pregnancy or menopause, as hormonal fluctuations are heightened at these times.
Hormonal imbalances that lead to hormonal acne can also be caused by certain medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and some thyroid disorders.
Non-hormonal acne, on the other hand, may be triggered by diet, stress, pore-clogging skincare products and not washing your face before bed.
HOW DOES WINLEVI WORK?
Winlevi (clascoterone 1%) is a topical cream that targets hormonal acne by blocking androgen receptors. Androgens are a family of hormones that include testosterone and are responsible for signaling to your skin to produce sebum by binding to androgen receptors. By blocking these receptor sites, Winlevi reduces sebum production and helps to reduce acne caused by hormone imbalances.
Because of its ability to block testosterone, Winlevi cream can also be used on the upper lip to decrease hair growth in women.
COULD WINLEVI BE RIGHT FOR ME?
Winlevi is only available by prescription, so talk to your doctor to see if it could be an appropriate acne treatment option for you. The best acne treatment regimen should also include the proper skincare regimen to address underlying inflammation, oil production and clogged pores to prevent acne from returning.
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