Getting back on Spironolactone after years off of it feels like a full-circle moment, one I never thought I’d have to experience again. But after months of the worst hormonal breakouts of my life, here I am. I’m 37, and to say this has been heartbreaking is an understatement. Not only am I dealing with the inevitable signs of aging, but I’m also breaking out like a teenager? Make it make sense.

I wanted to believe I could handle this naturally. After being on birth control for over 16 years, I made a promise to myself when I stopped two years ago: no more daily medication unless absolutely necessary. I was trying to be pure. But pure wasn’t working. My skin had a plan of its own, and it was an ugly one!

Now, two weeks back on Spiro, I’m cautiously optimistic. I’m seeing some changes…my active breakouts are finally starting to fade. But I still got two new pimples this week (right on cue, my period is a few days away). And my skin? Dry. Like, my hands and lips are so parched I feel like I need to bathe in moisturizer all day long.

For those unfamiliar, Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic primarily used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, but it’s also widely prescribed off-label for hormonal acne. It works by blocking androgen, male hormones that can overproduce oil and trigger breakouts, making it a game-changer for many women dealing with stubborn, cystic acne. But it’s not a quick fix. It can take months to see full results, and common side effects include dehydration, dizziness, and (as I’m experiencing firsthand) dry skin.

I know this journey is going to take time. And patience? Not my strongest suit. But I’m committed to seeing where this goes because dealing with acne at 37 is not the move. If you’ve been through this or are going through it, I see you. It’s frustrating, it’s unfair, and it’s exhausting. But we’ll get through it—one day (and one breakout) at a time.

I recently shared my hormonal acne skincare routine on the blog, which I’ll link for you here if you want a step-by-step rundown of what I am currently doing morning and night.