The article” Lived Knowledge of Acne and Acne Treatment in Transgender Patients,” published in the January 2024 issue of Dermatology by Gold, et al., is a summary of this article.
Although gender-specific and transgender people are frequently associated with gender-affirming hormone therapy and have a tendency to have pimples, little research has been done on these issues and their effects on gender-minority populations. Experts conducted a study to examine the participants ‘ lived experiences with acne and how it is treated in different genders and ways.
This mixed-methods study, which was conducted from January 4, 2021, through April 7, 2022, included endocrinology and dermatology clinics in a primary academic center, as well as a comprehensive gender center in a public safety- online hospital. Transgender or gender-different people who had received gender-affirming hormone treatment were the individuals. Data research occurred between November 11, 2021, and March 31, 2023, utilizing semi- structured conversations, studies, and thematic research. Interviews delved into the experience of acne and its treatment, sound recorded, transcribed exactly, coded using majority pressure theory and the socioecological design, and analyzed through thematic analysis. Survey data included sex, personal- reported rosacea intensity, impact on skin- certain quality of life, and treatment experiences.
Thirty- two members ( mean time: 32 years, range: 18- 57 ) were included, consisting of 17 transgender people, 11 transgender people, and 4 nonbinary people. While 31 % rated their skin as clear or almost clear, 34 % reported mild acne, and 34 % had moderate to severe acne. Participants shared their experiences of rejection and abuse as a result of acne, which led to social avoidance and adverse psychological effects like depression and anxiety. Transgender women reported ingraining on female female expression, which exacerbated their frustration with body image. Likewise, transgender men often viewed acne constructively as a signal of testosterone action. Most individuals attempted over- the- shop pimples treatments and sought counsel from several sources, including physicians, peers, online forums, and social media. Cost, a lack of comprehensive care, mistrust of the healthcare system, and inadequate education on transgender-specific acne care were among the obstacles to acne treatment.
The study identified barriers to effective acne treatment and highlighted the stigma surrounding it among transgender and gender- diverse individuals. To lessen the impact of acne in this population, it is recommended to use strategies to reduce stigma, provide personalized acne care education, facilitate multidisciplinary care, and create transgender-friendly clinical environments.
Reference: jamanetwork .com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/2813277
