Birth Control Pills And Acne

What is the connection between birth control pills and acne? Can being on the pill really help clear your skin?

The birth control pills and acne treatment connection has been touted for decades as a solution to 2 problems. In fact, some doctors prescribe the pill specifically for acne and studies show that it works. Low dose oral contraceptives have been approved by the FDA to treat acne and seem to be the least harmful and have a low occurrence of side effects related to estrogen such as headache, nausea and weight gain.

Why Birth Control Pills and Acne Don't Mix

Each month right before menstruation, oil production in the body increases. This is caused by androgen (a hormone) production in the body. Taking birth control pills seems to decrease the production of androgen, and thus the production of oil. This limits breakouts of acne and when used in conjunction with a good topical antibacterial cream can be quite effective.

Should You Treat Acne With Birth Control Pills?

The choice is yours. Oral contraceptives are fairly safe and if you were planning on using them as a method for birth control you can effectively kill two birds with one stone. On the other hand, there are risks so you probably don't want to enter into this lightly. Talk to your doctor and find out what is right for you.

Risks of Birth Control Pills

The risks of oral contraceptives are the same whether you are taking them as birth control or acne control and include increased risk for blood clots, stroke, breast cancer and heart attack. Risk is increased if you are also a smoker. Some side effects include vaginal bleeding, brown spotting on the skin, fluid retention and even depression.

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