subject: Birth Control Pills As Acne Treatment - How It Works [print this page] Birth Control Pills As Acne Treatment - How It Works
For some women, acne is a never-ending struggle. Despite numerous treatments, some acne just don't seem to want to go away. A number of women faced with stubborn acne have turned to birth control pills as a solution for their problem. Just what is it in the pill that makes it effective against adult female acne? And what are its risks and effects?
Hobnobbing Hormones
The hormones estrogen (estradiol) and progesterone (progestin) are major players in every woman's menstrual cycle. The rise and fall of the levels of these hormones determine whether a woman is ovulating, menstruating, or pregnant. The male hormone testosterone also figures in the menstrual cycle. Testosterone levels increase right before menstruation to heighten libido and control rising estrogen levels in what is called a feedback mechanism. Testosterone also builds up during pregnancy, especially for mothers expecting baby boys.
Besides a heightened sex drive, increased testosterone levels give way to telltale acne flare-ups in women right before their period. Extra testosterone causes the sebaceous glands in the skin's pores to produce more oil, which in turn combines with dead skin cells and dirt to cause acne. This also explains the pregnancy acne in some expectant mothers.
Pimples and The Pill
Birth control pills are basically made up of estrogen, progesterone, or a combination of both. They act in concert to prevent mature eggs from developing, thereby preventing pregnancy. A side effect of the pill is that these hormones also suppress the production of testosterone. With testosterone levels in check, hormonal pre-period pimple breakouts are prevented. This is the reason why dermatologists may recommend the use of birth control pills for especially stubborn acne in women.
To date, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only three birth control pills for use as acne treatments. These are Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Estrostep, and Yaz. Diane-35 and Yasmin, a variant of Yaz, are other birth control pills used as a treatment against acne.
It may take from three to six months to see significantly clearer skin with the use of birth control pills for acne. While the body gets used to the pill, less desirable side effects like nausea, weight gain, mood swings, headaches, and even high blood pressure, stroke, gallstones and depression may also develop. Combination birth control pills that have both estrogen and progesterone have a lower risk for pregnancy (0.01%) but don't act as effectively against acne compared to progesterone-only pills, which on the other hand has a higher 0.02% fail rate as a contraceptive.
Natural Acne Solution
Despite its convenience, birth control pills are not the be-all and end-all acne solution. For some women, acne may worsen before it gets better as the body gets used to the pill. For others, the pill may do nothing for acne or even make it worse. If you've tried every cream and ointment but still don't see results, why not give the natural acne treatment a shot? This type of treatment involves a combination of natural food, lifestyle, and acne home remedies for a more holistic approach against acne. You'll be surprised how a few lifestyle and diet changes can help clear up skin and banish acne.
