Winlevi vs topical spironolactone for hormonal acne 

Table of Content:
Winlevi and topical spironolactone | Benefits of topical spironolactone and Winlevi | Hormonal acne | Winlevi vs topical spironolactone | Topical spironolactone | Winlevi | FAQ Winlevi and topical spironolactone

Winlevi and spironolactone

Winlevi and topical spironolactone are both topical prescription medications for the treatment of hormonal acne in men and women; however only Winlevi is approved by the FDA for this purpose and is widely available in pharmacies.

Topical spironolactone and Winlevi, work similarly by blocking the androgen receptors in the skin, which reduces the amount of sebum production, and therefore, helps to reduce the occurrence of acne.

Ongoing research continues to study the potential benefits of using Winlevi and topical spironolactone in combination with other acne treatments, such as oral antibiotics for the treatment of acne. This approach may help to improve overall acne management and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

In this article we go over the benefits, differences and similarities between these two medications so you and your online dermatologist can choose the right medication for the treatment of your hormonal acne. In addition to these topical medications, your online dermatologist may also prescribe oral antibiotics such as Seysara (sarecycline) or doxycycline.

Why use a topical medication to treat hormonal acne?

Hormonal acne is acne related to hormone fluctuations. In women, hormonal acne, is typically treated with birth control pills or oral spironolactone to counter the effects of androgens^1 2 . However, birth control pills and oral spironolactone cannot be used by men and may cause some systemic side-effects in women^3. 

This is the main reason why Winelvi and topical spironolactone are considered an excellent alternative for the treatment of hormonal acne.

What is the difference between Winlevi and topical spironolactone?

Topical spironolactone and Winlevi are both topical antiandrogen medications that can be used by men and women, however they work slightly differently. 

Topical spironolactone is only used off-label as acne treatment, which is why it is not widely available in pharmacies, the good news is that Winlevi is approved by the FDA for the treatment of acne and it can be purchased in any pharmacy with a doctor’s prescription.

Topical spironolactone: What is it and how does it help with acne?

Topical spironolactone is a prescription medication that helps with acne by blocking androgens in the skin which in turn reduces the production of sebum (oil) in the skin. In addition to its anti-androgenic effects, topical spironolactone also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the redness and swelling⁶. 

Research shows that due to its androgen blocking properties, topical spironolactone is effective in reducing acne lesions in both men and women, particularly for those with hormonal acne⁷.

Spironolactone cream can be used by men and women because it helps regulate hormonal causes of acne at skin level. Since it reduces the amount of oil produced by the skin and decreases inflammation, it helps to prevent new acne breakouts and improve the appearance of existing ones. Besides, topical spironolactone is generally well-tolerated and has a low risk of side effects⁸. 

Winlevi: what is it and how does it help with hormonal acne?

Winlevi (clascoterone) is a fairly new topical medication (cream) that is approved by the FDA for the treatment of hormonal acne for men and women over 12 years old⁹. It works by inhibiting the effects of androgen receptors¹⁰. 

Winlevi is an androgen receptor inhibitor, which works by targeting androgens in the body, which contribute to the development of acne. By targeting these hormones, Winlevi helps prevent acne breakouts by stopping certain signals that cause it. It also reduces inflammation and the production of oils in the skin that can contribute to acne¹¹. 

Answered: Your most important questions about topical spironolactone and Winelvi 

Are Winlevi and topical spironolactone the same?

Winlevi and topical spironolactone are not the same medication, although they both work similarly in treating acne.

Can men use topical spironolactone or Winlevi for acne?

Yes, men can use topical spironolactone or Winlevi as these medicines do not have systemic effects as they are applied topically. 

How to get topical spironolactone or Winlevi?

Both medicines need a prescription. However, topical spironolactone is only sold by compounding pharmacies. Winlevi, on the other hand, is widely available. To request a prescription for Winlevi online, click on the “Start a consultation” button on the banner below.

Can you buy topical spironolactone or Winlevi online?

It is a bit tricky to buy topical spironolactone online as it is only sold by compounding pharmacies. However, you can request an online consultation and get a prescription for Winlevi as it is widely available in most U.S. pharmacies. Since Winlevi is a bit expensive without insurance, we have gathered the best Winlevi coupons and patient savings cards so you can purchase Winlevi at the cheapest price.

Does topical spironolactone and Winlevi cause purging?

Yes, topical spironolactone and Winlevi can trigger an initial outbreak of acne.

How long does it take for topical spironolactone or Winlevi to work?

Clinical studies have shown that the maximum results experienced from the application of Winlevi can be seen around 12 weeks and as early as two weeks, however, individual results may vary.

For topical spironolactone, results can be seen after approximately 8 weeks of application.

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Article References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26897386/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5419026/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5925193/
https://europepmc.org/article/med/2147469
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/drug-trial-snapshot-winlevi
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8483163/
https://www.ajmc.com/view/first-in-class-topical-treatment-clascoterone-launches-in-us-to-treat-acne-vulgaris
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ijd.15752
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8247934/