How to combat acne when using steroids

Author: Alexey - consultant for the website Ru-steroids.
2015-12-20

Important! We do not advocate for the use of steroids and other potent substances. All information is provided so that those who still decide to take them can do so with minimal health risks.

One of the most common problems faced by bodybuilders who take steroids is acne. This is inflammation of a specific area of the skin, predominantly localized, although in rare cases it can occur universally. The treatment methods for acne (or as it is also called, pimples and blemishes) caused by steroid use are the same as those for age-related or allergic skin inflammations. At present, it is impossible to predict the emergence of inflammatory reactions, and sometimes, when acne occurs, the skin can start to redden and itch slightly.

Undoubtedly, this side effect of steroid use is extremely unpleasant; in many cases, the affected skin area may swell, and if not treated in time, it might also become infected. A small bump with a white or purple base begins to form on the inflamed area of the skin.

Causes and Mechanism of Acne Formation

Medicine has rightly identified one of the causes of acne— the use of anabolic steroids. Certainly, seasoned lifters may deny this fact, but it is true. Acne that arises as a result of steroid use is caused by strong hormonal upheavals induced by steroids, which artificially regulate the body’s natural functions.

In reality, the mechanism of acne formation is quite simple: the skin and sebaceous structures, when subjected to hormonal assaults, provoke an increase in sebum production. During this time, the immune system directs its forces to eliminate the irritant, addressing the root cause of increased sebum under the epidermis. The rest of what happens is already familiar to us. In attempts to rid themselves of acne, many people start to squeeze them, often doing so in completely unhygienic conditions. This allows infection to enter the open wounds, leading to an increase in the number of pimples, but this time they appear not as a consequence of steroid influence.

How to Determine Predisposition to Acne Formation

The question of predisposition to acne formation is very delicate. Their occurrence in healthy individuals is extremely rare. Acne from steroid use primarily arises in individuals with some congenital genetic abnormalities or kidney diseases.

People with poor kidney function are strictly prohibited from using steroids, and the reason is not merely the occurrence of acne but rather that using these substances can severely compromise health. Acne resulting from steroid use, like age-related and allergic acne, can appear on the buttocks and pelvic area, as well as on the face, shoulders, back, and chest.

Steroids that Cause Acne Formation

As mentioned earlier, the formation of acne specifically depends on individual characteristics of the body. However, several steroids with a high androgenic index are known to often lead to acne formation:

• Testosterone esters,
• Anadrol,
• Methandienone,
• Trenbolone.

Acne that develops during the use of these preparations usually resolves without any treatment and typically leaves no significant trace. Only in cases of extensive inflammatory areas may scars remain for years.

Prevention and Treatment of Acne

Having addressed the cause of acne formation from steroid use, one can now explore the most popular and effective methods of treatment and prevention. Treatment methods can be conditionally divided into two groups: medicinal and folk remedies. In the first group, treatment of acne is possible through the use of antibiotics, ointments, and solutions. In the second group, acne is treated with masks, baths, and cleansing procedures.

1. Those who prefer medicinal treatment can choose from some of the most effective products for treating acne:

• Benzamycin,
• Clinesfar,
• Zinerit.

Medications should be used strictly according to the instructions. Each of these products affects individuals differently; therefore, the effectiveness of each can only be verified through personal experience.

2. You can also try to eliminate acne with salicylic acid. This is a time-tested remedy that is relatively simple to use. Soak a cotton ball in a non-alcoholic salicylic acid solution and gently rub it on the pimples. After 10-15 minutes, the solution must be washed off the skin, otherwise, unpleasant consequences may arise. It is important not to damage the pimples when applying the acid, and if that happens, repeat the procedure once more.

3. The use of ointments and masks is highly discouraged, as most of them create favorable conditions for the formation of new pimples.

4. Experienced bodybuilders often limit carbohydrate consumption and avoid spicy foods during steroid cycles. As a result, acne does not appear during or after the cycle.

5. Taking a contrast shower twice a day can also be beneficial. Problematic areas of the skin should be scrubbed well with a washcloth, thereby clearing the pores and preventing skin inflammation.

6. The sea and clay masks are also good methods for preventing acne formation.

Attention: Always purchase only original steroids to protect yourself from health issues. I (the author of this article) recommend the site ru-steroids, where you can buy anabolic steroids.