For the first time in 40 years, the FDA has approved a new type of acne treatment.

Acne affects 40 to 50 million people in the United States alone, making it one of the most common skin disorders among people of all ages. While there are numerous prescription and over-the-counter acne remedies available, there have been no new FDA-approved acne therapies since isotretinoin was authorized in 1982 – until now.

Prescription Since then, Winlevi has become the first new FDA-approved acne medication, and it takes a different strategy than existing acne therapies that target acne-causing bacteria or sebum (oil) production.

Winlevi is used to treat a kind of acne known as hormonal acne. This may be an option for you if you have acne but don't want to use antibiotics, Accutane, or birth control.

What makes hormonal acne unique?

In general, there are three basic causes of acne:

1. P. acnes is an acne-causing bacterium.
2. Sebum production is excessive (oil)
3. Pores clogged

Hormone imbalances can cause your skin to produce excessive levels of sebum, which leads to cystic acne along the chin and jawline in the case of hormonal acne. Hormonal acne affects many women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s before their menstrual cycle begins each month, as well as during pregnancy and menopause, when hormonal swings are at their peak.

Certain medical illnesses, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid abnormalities, can create hormonal imbalances that lead to hormonal acne.

Diet, stress, pore-clogging skincare products, and not washing your face before night can all contribute to non-hormonal acne.

How does Winlevi function?

Winlevi (clascoterone 1%) is a topical cream that works by inhibiting androgen receptors to treat hormonal acne. Androgens, which include testosterone, are hormones that signal your skin to create sebum by attaching to androgen receptors. Winlevi decreases sebum production and acne caused by hormone imbalances by inhibiting these receptor sites.

Winlevi cream can also be applied on the upper lip to reduce hair growth in women due to its ability to suppress testosterone.

Is Winlevi the correct fit for me?

Winlevi is only available with a prescription, so check with your doctor to determine if it's a good fit for your acne therapy. To prevent acne from reoccurring, the ideal acne treatment program should also include the correct skincare regimen to address underlying inflammation, oil production, and clogged pores.