Acne and the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender Teenager

Dermatol Clin. 2020 Apr;38(2):219-226. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2019.10.006. Epub 2019 Nov 26.

Abstract

Although most teenagers experience acne, for sexual and gender minority teenagers, acne could be more challenging and require specific psychosocial considerations. Acne may be more strongly associated with mental health issues in sexual and gender minority adolescents. Acne development during puberty may trigger gender dysphoria in transgender patients. Transgender and gender nonbinary patients receiving testosterone therapy may experience new or worsening acne. Comprehensive care for moderate to severe acne in sexual and gender minority adolescents should include culturally competent discussions about sexual behaviors, contraception, and/or gender-affirmation treatment plans.

Keywords: Acne; Bisexual; Dermatology; Gay; Isotretinoin; Lesbian; Sexual and gender minority; Transgender.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Drug-Induced / prevention & control
  • Acne Vulgaris / chemically induced
  • Acne Vulgaris / drug therapy*
  • Acne Vulgaris / psychology
  • Adolescent
  • Androgen Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Androgens / adverse effects
  • Contraception*
  • Culturally Competent Care*
  • Depression / psychology
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Estrogens
  • Female
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / agonists
  • Humans
  • Isotretinoin / adverse effects
  • Isotretinoin / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Mental Health
  • Sex Reassignment Procedures
  • Sexual Health
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities
  • Spironolactone / therapeutic use
  • Suicidal Ideation
  • Testosterone / adverse effects
  • Transgender Persons*

Substances

  • Androgen Antagonists
  • Androgens
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Estrogens
  • Spironolactone
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone
  • Testosterone
  • Isotretinoin

Supplementary concepts

  • Accutane embryopathy