Hormonal Pathogenesis of Acne - Simplified

Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit. General pathogenesis is well known to all. With increasing incidence of polycystic ovarian disease and other hormonal disorders due to stress and lifestyle changes, the incidence of acne resistant to regular antibiotics and retinoids is increasing, with increasing need for hormonal therapy in acne as well. There are numerous hormones responsible for the eruption of acnes, with androgens playing mainly an influence role in sebum production in acne formation. Proper understanding of the hormonal pathogenesis of acne helps us in better management. This article reviews the essentials of hormonal influence in acne pathogenesis, discusses the hormonal therapies most utilized in the treatment of acne.