Testosterone and Acne

[Piggles1979]

Apologies to those who have responded to my post on the Menopause board. I am not discounting what you have said, but just feel the need for some more comments.
Just started testosterone as part of my HRT. I'm using Tostran. Only had two doses so far, but have felt some lift in the libido (possibly placebo effect...)
I'm really worried about acne though. I had it throughout teens and twenties. Two goes with roaccutane on my thirties sorted it, but I am SO scared of getting it again.
Of course, the magic of the algorithm means I'm being bombarded with nightmare anecdotes about horrendous testosterone-induced acne.
I'm hoping for some input/experiences from here.
Thanks.

Hopefully bump 😃

Bumping again 😆

Hi OP - I’m posting to help boost your post. I don’t have knowledge of this specific thing.

However, in general terms - could it help you to form a plan for if things go wrong and to discuss and agree that with your doctor? Ie if you develop acne again, what will be your next steps?

It can reduce the uncertainty element. This has helped me through IVF which carries a lot of uncertainty and the high possibility of negative outcomes.

Apologies if this doesn’t apply in your case or if you’ve already done this.

@InWithPeaceOutWithStress
Thank you for replying 😊
That does make sense, although I'm using the BUPA menopause service and don't really want to fork out for another consultation 😂 I imagine it would be a case of dealing with the issue if it arises.
Just trying to decide whether I want to take the risk.
I found my years with acne so depressing.

It wouldn't be years of depression again, though, you won't know if your body reacts to testosterone like that now (30 yrs later) until you try and you can stop the tstone if your mood gets low.

Also you may be a much more resilient person now... and probably you aren't expecting flawless skin in your 50s whereas it might have seemed common in your teens. When expectations change, mood often changes.

@lljkk
Thanks for your response.
It's acne, not low mood I'm worried about (as in low mood caused by acne)
I'm 47, and only completely clear of acne for the past 12 years or so, so the fear of a relapse is pretty strong.
In terms of my expectations of clear skin, I love the fact that my skin is now clear. It's hard to describe the elation at not having to wear makeup/cover up, of not being scared of getting my face wet if it rains, of not having to shut myself away for hours when experiencing a bad breakout. This might seem extreme, but it was reality for a very long time for me.
I think that's why I'm focusing on this. The fear is real 😂

One more cheeky bump 😆

you literally wrote that the years with acne were so depressing.