Acne is an androgen-related disorder of the skin. Oil and dead skin cells can accumulate and clog up your hair follicles. As a result, an individual may acquire pimples, whiteheads, or blackheads. This is most commonly seen among teenagers. However, children, adults, or elders can still achieve this skin condition, and it is frequently challenging to get rid of. Acne treatments exist, and anti-acne cosmetic products such as acne-safe makeup, acne face wash, and cleansers.
However, some conditions are extremely demanding for some individuals despite the preventive measures that they take. Acne is one of America’s most common skin conditions, which affects about 50 million American residents. Acne treatment may no longer be enough as acne can be an incredibly persistent skin condition. For severe and intense acne can cause scars on the skin and can negatively affect your self-esteem in the long run. Acne can continue for years and will usually need medical attention. Despite its severity, treatments are only limited to topical antibiotics, dapsone, topical retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide.
What are topical antiandrogens?
Antiandrogens are drugs that stop the effects of androgens in the body. Androgens are male hormones that are crucial for the reproductive function of men. For topical antiandrogens, much research has been developed for the treatment of androgen-dependent conditions such as acne. Recently, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved clascoterone 1% cream (Winlevi) to be an effective topical treatment for acne. Winlevi is the first-ever antiandrogen receptor topical cream and is effective for individuals aged 12 and above. This topical androgen focuses on androgen hormones. It competes with it as it binds to the androgen receptors inside hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Clascoterone was approved based on randomized trials that involved 1,440 patients going through moderate to severe facial acne that are nine years old and above in April 2020.
Benefits of using topical antiandrogens for acne treatment
Study shows the favorable efficacy and safety of clascoterone cream 1% (Winlevi) to treat acne. The trials were also designed in line with the Food and Drug Administration’s industry guidelines for ensuring its effectiveness for acne treatment. This topical antiandrogen provides a non-antibiotic approach to individuals who have acne. Furthermore, Clascoterone is a new and more favorable treatment option for a wider range of acne patients. Traditional antiandrogen treatments are not as effective for men due to the sexual side effects or gynecomastia.
Fortunately, men with acne can now safely use the drug without suffering the side effects that most acne treatments have. The trials have shown that Clascoterone effectively lessens whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed spots in just 12 weeks with a dosage of twice a day. This drug has been highly anticipated and is now described as a game-changer in terms of topical treatments for acne vulgaris. This type of treatment is different since instead of an oral medication, it is a topical treatment. It is a better alternative since oral medication may result in life-threatening side effects. This topical antiandrogen puts a stop to the production of excess oil and brings down inflammation.
Side effects of topical antiandrogens
Despite the positive reactions and reviews regarding the topical antiandrogen, Winlevi cream can elicit major side effects. One of these is local skin reactions. This treatment may cause skin irritation like burning, itching, peeling, and skin redness. Moreover, it can result in individuals developing adrenal problems as the gland might lack in terms of producing specific hormones. As a result, this can negatively affect the hormone balance in an individual’s body. The side effects mentioned that might occur is not a thorough and complete list. Thus, it is best to contact a professional for accurate medical advice.
The bottom line
Acne is a severe skin condition experienced by millions of different people from all over the world. Dealing with this condition can be frustrating and challenging physically, mentally, and emotionally in every aspect of an individual’s life. Acne treatments that have existed are still considered an effective choice to treat acne. However, the use of topical antiandrogens has changed the game for the better.
Researchers have worked hard to establish the effectiveness and safety of using this type of drug today. It has now enhanced how dermatologists and skin experts will deal with the condition now and in the future. Topical antiandrogen treatments like Clascoterone 1% cream (Winlevi) can help millions of acne patients worldwide. As long as acne-prone patients consult professionals and seek proper medical advice, taking a step forward with topical antiandrogens can indeed change the course of their lives for the better.
