Where to buy topical spironolactone?
Interested in getting topical spironolactone for acne or hair loss? Dr. Eric Howell, board-certified dermatologist tells you how and where to get it.
Table of Content:
What is topical spironolactone? | Do you need a prescription? | Where to buy it? | Advantages | Side-effects
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What is topical spironolactone?
Dr. Eric Howell, board-certified dermatologist, says that topical spironolactone is a prescription medication that is used off-label in the treatment of acne and female hair loss (female pattern baldness) due to its anti-androgenic properties (androgens are hormones that play a role in both conditions)1.
Topical spironolactone acts locally on the face or scalp to mitigate the effects of androgens in the skin without the systemic effects often associated with oral spironolactone.
Do you need a doctor’s prescription to buy topical spironolactone?
Dr. Howell says that topical spironolactone can only be purchased with a doctor’s prescription. Besides, since it is not widely available in pharmacies, you need to buy it at specialized compounding pharmacies.
How to get a prescription for compunded topical spironolactone?
You can request a customized topical spironolactone formula for your face or scalp via Miiskin with a board-certified dermatologist. Your formula is likely to include topical spironolactone + tretinoin if it’s for acne or topical spironolactone + niacinamide. The price for the consultation is $59 and price for a medication refill consultation is $39.
Where to buy topical spironolactone?
Once your independent dermatologist has given you a prescription, you can buy your customized topical spironolactone formula via Skin Medicinals.
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More about topical spironolactone for acne
Advantages of topical spironolactone
Controls Oil Production
Topical spironolactone helps regulate sebum (skin oil) production, a key factor in acne formation. By reducing excess oil, it minimizes clogged pores and breakouts2.
Reduces Inflammation
With its anti-inflammatory properties, spironolactone can help soothe redness, swelling, and irritation commonly associated with acne3.
Targeted Application
Applied directly to problem areas, topical spironolactone provides localized treatment, ensuring it addresses acne-prone skin without affecting unaffected areas.
Minimal Side Effects
Compared to its oral counterpart, topical spironolactone typically has mild and well-tolerated side effects4.
Enhances Combination Therapy
When used alongside other acne treatments, such as tretinoin, topical spironolactone can improve overall acne management and treatment effectiveness.
Dermatologist Dr. Carolina Fernandez Quiroga explains how topical spironolactone for acne works, its benefits, and what to watch out for—read her expert advice in our article “Topical spironolactone: Benefits, side effects, and usage“.
Potential Side Effects of Topical Spironolactone
Topical spironolactone is generally well-tolerated, with most side effects being mild. Common reactions may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Irritation
- Burning sensation
- Skin scaling5
These effects are typically temporary and subside as the skin adjusts to the treatment.
Can Oral and Topical Spironolactone Be Used Together?
Studies indicate that combining oral and topical spironolactone can be beneficial for women with persistent acne. This dual approach may enhance treatment effectiveness while potentially reducing the need for long-term oral antibiotic use6.
Who Should Avoid Topical Spironolactone for Acne?
Due to its anti-androgenic properties, topical spironolactone is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may pose risks to the baby.
Acne-Prone Skin Care
Consult a Board-Certified Dermatologist Now!
The Miiskin app connects you with independent, board-certified dermatologists who are licensed in your state to get cost-effective skin or hair loss treatment. Download the Miiskin app start your journey towards radiant skin.
Article References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3763909/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8483163/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36412248/#
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554421/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1110116416300333
https://www.dovepress.com/the-efficacy-and-safety-of-oral-and-topical-spironolactone-in-androgen-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-CCID
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34250269/
https://www.bmj.com/content/381/bmj.p1114#
Interested in getting a prescription for spironolactone?