Testosterone therapy can cause a number of changes in the skin of FTM individuals, including:

  • Increased sebum production: Testosterone can cause the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more sebum, an oily substance that can clog pores and lead to acne.
  • Increased hair growth: Testosterone can also cause increased hair growth on the face, chest, and other areas of the body.
  • Thicker skin: Testosterone can cause the skin to become thicker and more oily.
  • Acne: Testosterone can cause acne, especially in the first few months of therapy.
  • Body odor: Testosterone can cause body odor to become stronger.

It is important to note that not all FTM individuals will experience these changes in their skin. Some FTM individuals may experience only a few of these changes, while others may experience all of them. The severity of these changes will also vary from person to person.

If you are an FTM individual who is concerned about the effects of testosterone therapy on your skin, you should talk to your doctor. They can help you to manage any potential side effects and to develop a skin care routine that is right for you.

Here are some additional tips for FTM individuals who are concerned about the effects of testosterone therapy on their skin:

  • Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser.
  • Use a toner to help remove excess oil and dirt from your skin.
  • Moisturize your skin daily with a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
  • Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubs on your skin.
  • See a dermatologist if you develop acne or other skin problems.

Hormone therapy, specifically testosterone therapy, can have various effects on the skin of FTM (female-to-male) individuals. Here are some common ways in which hormone therapy can impact the skin:

  1. Increased Oiliness: Testosterone can stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to an increase in oil production. As a result, FTM individuals may experience increased skin oiliness, particularly in the face. This can contribute to acne breakouts or exacerbate existing acne conditions.
  2. Acne: Hormonal changes associated with testosterone therapy can sometimes lead to the development or worsening of acne. Acne can appear as whiteheads, blackheads, or inflamed pimples. It can occur on the face, chest, shoulders, and back.
  3. Facial and Body Hair Growth: Testosterone promotes the growth of facial and body hair in FTM individuals. As the hair follicles respond to increased androgen levels, facial hair, including beard growth, can become more pronounced. Body hair, such as chest, abdomen, and limb hair, may also increase.
  4. Thicker Skin: Testosterone can lead to thickening of the skin in FTM individuals. This can result in a rougher texture and increased durability of the skin.
  5. Sweat and Body Odor: Hormone therapy can influence sweat production and body odor. Increased testosterone levels may lead to a more noticeable sweat production and changes in body odor.
  6. Redistribution of Subcutaneous Fat: Over time, hormone therapy can lead to the redistribution of subcutaneous fat in FTM individuals. Fat deposits may shift from the hips, thighs, and breasts to more masculine areas, such as the abdomen, resulting in a more masculine body shape.

It’s important to note that the effects of hormone therapy on the skin can vary among individuals. Some individuals may experience more noticeable changes, while others may have minimal or no significant changes. It can take time for these changes to occur, and the timeline for individual responses may vary.

Taking care of the skin through proper skincare routines, including cleansing, moisturizing, and using non-comedogenic products, can help manage oiliness, acne, and other skin-related concerns. Consulting with dermatologists or skincare professionals experienced in working with transgender individuals can provide further guidance on managing any skin-related changes or concerns that may arise during hormone therapy.