Best birth control for acne treatment

Overview

Most people are surprised to learn that birth control pills for acne can be an effective treatment option. Hormonal imbalances are often a key factor behind breakouts, and certain types of birth control can help regulate these hormones, leading to clearer skin. Generally, birth control is recommended for women who are in good health and also require contraception. Looking for the best birth control that also helps treat your acne? This blog is for you. We’ll explore the best birth control for acne, focusing on how different options work to control hormonal acne, which methods are most effective, and what to consider when choosing the best contraceptive pill for acne based on your skin and health needs.

Does birth control help acne?

“Birth control can be thought of as more than something that prevents pregnancy. It does so much more for a lot of people. We call those happy side effects the ‘non-contraceptive benefits of hormonal contraception.’ And clearing up acne is one of the big ones.” says Ob/Gyn Erin Higgins, MD. 

Yes, birth control can help treat acne, particularly hormonal acne. Certain types of birth control pills contain hormones that regulate the production of androgens, which are hormones responsible for increased oil production in the skin. Excess oil can clog pores, leading to breakouts. By balancing these hormone levels, birth control pills can reduce the severity of acne and help clear the skin over time.

However, not all birth control methods are equally effective for treating acne, and the results may vary from person to person.

What birth control is best for acne?

Birth control medications are frequently used as an effective treatment for acne, particularly in women with hormonal imbalances. Below are some commonly prescribed birth control methods and their impact on acne:

Ortho Tri-Cyclen (norgestimate/ethinyl estradiol), Birth control pills for acne

Ortho Tri-Cyclen is a widely prescribed oral contraceptive that combines norgestimate, progestin, and ethinyl estradiol, estrogen. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of moderate acne in women who also seek contraception. Research suggests that the primary mechanism through which it helps with acne is by lowering the levels of androgens, hormones that contribute to increased skin sebum (oil) production. However, some individuals may wonder, can birth control make acne worse? It’s important to note that for some users, birth control causing acne can happen in the early stages of use, though it typically improves with continued use. Ortho Tri-Cyclen helps prevent clogged pores by reducing oil production, leading to clearer skin. It also provides effective birth control and can regulate menstrual cycles, offering comprehensive reproductive health benefits. Ortho Tri-Cyclen is a popular choice for women with moderate acne and those seeking the dual benefits of contraception and improved skin.

Yaz/ Yasmin (drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol) for acne and PMDD

Yaz, containing drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol, is another popular birth control pill that is effective in treating hormonal acne, particularly in women with moderate to severe acne. Drospirenone, a unique progestin, has anti-androgenic properties that help reduce excess oil production, a primary cause of acne. For women wondering if birth control makes acne worse before it gets better, this can be true in some cases. However, Yaz tends to improve skin over time once the body adjusts. Beyond its acne-fighting benefits, Yaz is also approved to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), making it suitable for women dealing with both acne and mood-related issues. Yaz is available in generic forms like Nikki, Gianvi, and Loryna. While similar to Yasmin birth control acne treatment, Yaz is a more targeted choice for women with both acne and PMDD. A 2009 study confirmed the safety and efficacy of this combination, noting improvements in acne severity and minimal side effects. Another study showed that after three months of drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol treatment, patients reported fewer acne breakouts and better overall skin condition.

Estrostep FE (norethindrone acetate/ethinyl estradiol/ferrous fumarate)

Estrostep FE is a unique oral contraceptive that treats acne while including an iron supplement, making it ideal for women at risk of iron deficiency. The active ingredients, norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol help reduce androgen levels, controlling sebum production and preventing acne breakouts. While it effectively addresses moderate acne in women who also require contraception, some may worry about acne from birth control. Though uncommon, such side effects may occur in the early stages of use but generally improve over time. Estrostep FE’s inclusion of ferrous fumarate helps address potential iron deficiencies, especially for women with heavy menstrual periods.

Beyaz (drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol/levomefolate)

Beyaz is a combination birth control pill containing drospirenone, ethinyl estradiol, and levomefolate calcium. Like Yaz, Beyaz’s drospirenone component combats hormonal acne by reducing oil production. Women may question whether birth control causes acne?, and though rare, initial breakouts may occur. Beyaz offers additional benefits with levomefolate calcium, a form of folic acid, which helps maintain healthy folate levels in women of childbearing age. This benefits those planning future pregnancies, as folate is crucial for fetal development. Beyaz provides a comprehensive solution for acne treatment, birth control, and overall reproductive health.

How long does it take birth control to work for acne?

It typically takes 2 to 3 months for birth control to show visible improvements in acne. This is because hormonal contraceptives need time to regulate the hormones that influence sebum (oil) production. Reducing androgen levels helps decrease oil production and reduce acne breakouts. However, individual responses can vary, and some people may see improvement sooner, while others might need longer for the full effects to become noticeable.

When it comes to long-acting reversible contraceptives, women may wonder about the best IUD for acne. Generally, hormonal IUDs containing progestin, like Mirena, may offer some benefit for acne, but the effects vary by individual. In contrast, copper IUDs are non-hormonal and may not have the same effect on skin health.

For more personalized guidance, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider who can evaluate the effectiveness and suggest the most suitable option based on individual health factors.

Who can’t take birth control for acne?

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for using birth control to treat acne. Several medical and lifestyle factors can make oral contraceptives unsafe or less ideal. Individuals who generally should avoid taking birth control for acne include:

• Women with a history of blood clots: Birth control pills containing estrogen can increase the risk of blood clots. Women with a personal or family history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism should avoid these medications.
• Smokers over the age of 35: Smoking combined with the use of hormonal contraceptives significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke or heart attack, especially in older women.
• Women with uncontrolled hypertension: Birth control pills can raise blood pressure. Women with high blood pressure, especially if it’s uncontrolled, should avoid taking birth control pills due to the risk of worsening hypertension and related complications.
• Migraine sufferers with aura: Women who experience migraines with aura have a higher risk of stroke, and estrogen-containing birth control can further increase that risk.
• Women with liver disease: Oral contraceptives can affect liver function, so women with existing liver conditions like liver tumors, cirrhosis, or hepatitis should not use them.
• Women with certain cancers: Estrogen-sensitive cancers, such as breast cancer or certain forms of ovarian or uterine cancer, can be exacerbated by hormonal contraceptives. Women with these conditions should avoid birth control pills.
• Women who are pregnant, Trying to conceive, or breastfeeding: Pregnancy is an absolute contraindication, and women who are breastfeeding may be advised to avoid estrogen-containing contraceptives, as they can affect milk supply.
• Women with obesity or other cardiovascular risks: Obesity and other cardiovascular risk factors can make hormonal contraceptives more risky due to increased chances of developing blood clots or other cardiovascular issues.

Women with these conditions or risk factors should consult a healthcare provider to explore alternative acne treatments. Non-hormonal options or lower-risk contraceptive methods might be considered.

When to consult a doctor?

Here are the critical points on when to consult a doctor regarding birth control options for clear skin and acne management:

• Persistent or Severe Acne: If acne remains severe or worsens despite trying over-the-counter treatments.
• Uncertain about Birth Control Options: When unsure about which birth control method is appropriate for both contraception and acne control.
• Hormonal Imbalances: If there are concerns about underlying hormonal issues like PCOS, which may be contributing to acne.
• Experiencing Side Effects: If experiencing side effects from current birth control, such as mood changes, weight gain, or other health issues.
• Pre-existing Health Conditions: When there are existing medical conditions (e.g., migraines, blood clots, high blood pressure) that might limit birth control options.
• No Improvement After 3 Months: If there is no visible improvement in acne after three months of starting birth control.
• Planning Pregnancy: When transitioning off birth control while managing acne and discussing alternative treatments for clear skin.
• Concerns About Long-Term Use: If you’re concerned about how taking hormonal birth control can affect your skin’s health and general well-being in the long run.
• Combining Treatments: If considering combining birth control with other acne treatments like topical medications or antibiotics.

FAQs about birth control for acne