The Pill and Acne: What You Need to Know
Aesthetic Clinic Nottingham | Rejuvenate Face: Skin and Face Rejuvenation Experts
The Pill and Acne: Your Questions Answered
Understanding How Birth Control Pills Affect Acne
The Role of Sebum and Androgens
- Acne can worsen when your skin produces too much sebum, an oil made by tiny glands.
- Androgens, a type of hormone, stimulate sebum production.
How Birth Control Pills Work
- Birth control pills come in two main types:
- Combined pills: Contain both estrogen and progesterone.
- Progestin-only pills (mini-pills): Contain only progesterone.
Estrogen vs. Progesterone: Impact on Acne
- Estrogen: Lowers androgen levels, potentially reducing acne.
- Progesterone: Weak androgen can worsen acne (especially in high doses).
Choosing the Right Birth Control Pill for Acne
Combined Pills for Acne
- Generally, it is a better choice for acne due to the presence of estrogen.
- Newer combined pills often contain acne-friendly progestins like drospirenone or norgestimate.
Important Considerations
- Combined pills have side effects and risks that need to be weighed against acne benefits.
- Consult a doctor to discuss your specific situation and find the best option.
Birth Control Pills and Acne: Brand Breakdown (UK)
Combined OCPs (Oral Contraceptive Pills) for Acne
- Eloine (drospirenone & ethinylestradiol)
- Yasmin (drospirenone & ethinylestradiol) – Consider alternatives for a lower thrombosis risk.
- Marvelon (desogestrel & ethinylestradiol)
- Cilique (norgestimate & ethinylestradiol)
Combined OCP NOT Recommended for Acne
- Dianette/Clairette (cyproterone acetate & ethinylestradiol) – More effective than Yasmin but not licensed for contraception and has a higher thrombosis risk. Only for severe acne under strict supervision.
Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pills) and Acne
- These mini-pills may worsen acne. Avoid these if you have acne-prone skin:
- Cerazette (desogestrel)
- Mircette (desogestrel)
- Cerelle (desogestrel)
- Noriday (norethisterone)
- Norgeston (levonorgestrel)
Side Effects and Risks of Birth Control Pills
Common Side Effects
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
Potential Risks
- Breast cancer: Slightly increased risk while taking the pill, returns to normal after stopping.
- Ovarian cancer: Risk may be reduced.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Increased risk, especially with newer pills containing drospirenone. Discuss this risk with your doctor.
Important Note: The risk of DVT is still very low. For comparison:
- 12 in 10,000 pill users develop DVT.
- 2 in 10,000 non-users develop DVT.
- The risk of DVT during pregnancy is similar to the pill.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section explores the different ways the pill can impact acne, why results vary, and how to find the right birth control option for your skin.
Can birth control pills help with acne?
Yes, for some women, birth control pills can be an effective way to manage acne. Combination pills, containing both estrogen and progesterone, are typically the most helpful because estrogen lowers androgen levels, which can reduce sebum production and acne breakouts.
What type of birth control pill is best for acne?
Combination pills containing acne-friendly progestins like drospirenone or norgestimate are generally preferred. However, the best pill for you depends on your needs and medical history. It’s essential to consult a doctor to discuss your options.
Are there birth control pills that can worsen acne?
Yes, progestin-only pills (mini-pills) can aggravate acne for some women. These pills lack estrogen, which can lead to increased androgen activity and potentially worsen breakouts.
What are the side effects of birth control pills?
Common side effects include headaches, breast tenderness, and nausea. There are also some potential risks, like a slightly increased risk of breast cancer while taking the pill (which returns to normal after stopping) and an increased risk of blood clots, particularly with newer pills containing drospirenone. Discuss these risks with your doctor to determine if the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks.
How long does it take for birth control pills to clear up acne?
It can take several months for birth control pills to show their full effect on acne. You may even experience an initial breakout before your skin starts to improve. Be patient and consistent with taking your pills as prescribed.
Are there other options for treating acne besides birth control pills?
Yes, many other acne treatments are available, including topical medications, antibiotics, and light therapy. We can help you create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Related Articles
Tired of dealing with breakouts? We're here to help! We've got articles covering everything from the causes of acne to effective treatments, skincare tips, and product recommendations. Let's work together to find the clear skin you deserve.
Want to Find Out More About Acne?
Aesthetic Clinic Nottingham | Rejuvenate Face: Skin and Face Rejuvenation Experts
Clearer skin starts with knowledge. Visit the following websites we have specially chosen to get further information about Acne
Information Leaflet
Clinical Knowledge Summary
Website