Hormonal acne therapies in pediatrics

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is one of the most common inflammatory skin conditions in adolescents, affecting up to 85% of individuals aged 12-24 years. Beyond its physical manifestations, acne can significantly impact self-esteem, quality of life, and psychological well-being. DISCUSSION: Acne has a multifactorial pathogenesis involving follicular hyperkeratinization, increased sebum production, Cutibacterium acnes colonization, and inflammation. Hormonal influences, particularly androgen-mediated sebaceous gland activity during adrenarche, play a central role in disease development. In some patients, hormonal factors may be more prominent, with clinical features including acne concentrated on the lower face and jawline and flares associated with the menstrual cycle. CONCLUSION: Recognition of acne as a chronic inflammatory condition has supported the increasing use of hormonal therapies as an important treatment option in selected adolescent patients.