20 replies to this topic

[hellojess]

Hi I'm new here, just thought I'd include my skin history in case anyone can relate or if it makes a difference, but you don't have to read this bit..

basically I started getting bad skin when I was around 15/16, and got prescribed Zineryt for it, this worked really well and I had clear skin for around a year and a half. I was carefree and thought I'd maybe grown out of it and it had stopped, but it stopped working as my skin became resistant. Doctor gave me other topicals which had no effect, and also Tetralysal Lymecycline which is an oral antibiotic, but this didnt seem to do anything.

I'm 18 now and my skin had got progressively worse to the point it's making me really upset when I have to leave the house. I work in retail and my manager's even asked me where my confidence has gone, I dont like looking people in the eye directly, etc, etc. Really gets me down, even though I know it could be worse.

My acne's only on my T zone, my skin on my cheeks is *touch wood* clear and really nice. I have what I'd call a healthy diet. I've generally always eaten 'proper' foods, I don't eat takeaways, I drink a LOT of water and green tea, and also cider vinegar. I can't tell if this makes a difference seen as I've always done it, but maybe my skin would be severe without it. It's not severe now, but some spots are pretty painful and under my skin.

this is the main reason I posted here and my main question:

I'm currently on my third pack of Dianette/Diane35 and about 2 weeks into it. So far my skin hasn't improved, but I know it can take months. The thing is my family history isn't great with blood pressure (I did tell my doctor this) and I've been reading horror stories about people gaining loads of weight and about people's skin becoming worse after coming off it, as it is a short term solution. I was wondering whether to change to something like Yasmin after this last pack - I know I could get success if I continued to use it, but I'm not sure if I want to have short-term clear skin and then come off and have it worse than ever. Would this happen even after only 3 months?

I really need some advice here..thanks if you managed to read that essay, I really don't know what to do. I've become obsessed with weight gain and stuff after taking Dianette and I also get this weird pain in my leg that goes on the week break but am paranoid if I stop my skin will worsen

[AcneSlayer]

I'll be honest with you: I have gained 20 pounds on birth control (Ortho Tri-Cyclin Lo). For me this wasn't so bad, though, because I was a stick before.

As for your skin being worse after stopping, there was one women on here who weened herself off of birth control slowly and seemed to avoid her skin exploding. Maybe you could do that?

In my opinion, taking birth control only for acne is not a good idea, and doctors should not prescribe it solely for acne.


Just my opinion, though.

[Holly137]

I'm in pretty much the same boat - even prescribed the same things throughout. I had mild acne at 14/15 and got rid of it for a few years with Zineryt then it came back soo much worse a couple of years later and then started on the antibiotics which I don't think have helped. My doc recently changed me from Tetralysal to an Erythromycin and Dianette combo because Tetralysal wasn't working at all.

I have seen improvement, (until this week anyway where I've had a bit of a face explosion) but I'm in the same dilema about whether to stay on it or try something else. I think I may have also started gaining weight (I've just finished my second pack of Dianette) but it's hard to determine if it's just my eating habits changing. I've done research though and most of the weight gained is water weight which can sometimes be managed by lowering salt intake, drinking more water, and adding a natual diuretic to your diet (e.g hot lemon water, cranberry juice).

I'm sorry that I can't really suggest anything but my plan is to stay on Dianette for as long as possible and see if it clears my skin, and then if it does I'll know it's definitely hormonal and possibly give Spiro a go with a different BCP. If I start putting on tons of weight though I may have to reconsider.

Anyway, sorry I can't be more helpful, but I know how you're feeling. I'll be checking back to see what people say as I'm interested in suggestions also! I hope you find a good solution.

[hellojess]

I'll be honest with you: I have gained 20 pounds on birth control (Ortho Tri-Cyclin Lo). For me this wasn't so bad, though, because I was a stick before.

As for your skin being worse after stopping, there was one women on here who weened herself off of birth control slowly and seemed to avoid her skin exploding. Maybe you could do that?

In my opinion, taking birth control only for acne is not a good idea, and doctors should not prescribe it solely for acne.


Just my opinion, though.

first of all thanks for replying I am worried about the weight thing. I've always been naturally thin and eaten loads (but never loads of junk, I basically live off pasta) But recently I have been feeling the urge to eat more even though I don't really think I'm hungry. I have no idea if this is just psychological because I'm aware I could put on weight, but like I said it does concern me.
would you recommend weaning myself off now or waiting to see if it improves my skin? because I know a lot of people have had dianette work well for them at around 5-6 months after taking it, and as I'm starting university in september it's really tempting to think I'd be clear for then seen as I'll be meeting new people and stuff!

I'm in pretty much the same boat - even prescribed the same things throughout. I had mild acne at 14/15 and got rid of it for a few years with Zineryt then it came back soo much worse a couple of years later and then started on the antibiotics which I don't think have helped. My doc recently changed me from Tetralysal to an Erythromycin and Dianette combo because Tetralysal wasn't working at all.

I have seen improvement, (until this week anyway where I've had a bit of a face explosion) but I'm in the same dilema about whether to stay on it or try something else. I think I may have also started gaining weight (I've just finished my second pack of Dianette) but it's hard to determine if it's just my eating habits changing. I've done research though and most of the weight gained is water weight which can sometimes be managed by lowering salt intake, drinking more water, and adding a natual diuretic to your diet (e.g hot lemon water, cranberry juice).

I'm sorry that I can't really suggest anything but my plan is to stay on Dianette for as long as possible and see if it clears my skin, and then if it does I'll know it's definitely hormonal and possibly give Spiro a go with a different BCP. If I start putting on tons of weight though I may have to reconsider.

Anyway, sorry I can't be more helpful, but I know how you're feeling. I'll be checking back to see what people say as I'm interested in suggestions also! I hope you find a good solution.

this is very similar to me! You know it's funny you say that improvement started, because last week my skin was starting to look better and I hadn't changed anything lifestyle wise and thought the dianette was kicking in! But a few days down the line my skin is worse..and not just in terms of spots, but just quality wise, it looks really dull. how long have you been on it for?

[WishClear127]

I think you should switch to a lower estogen birth control because it will most likely have less risks. I suggest OTC LO. I had absolutely no weight gain on it.

[hellojess]

I think you should switch to a lower estogen birth control because it will most likely have less risks. I suggest OTC LO. I had absolutely no weight gain on it.

I had been considering switching but to Yasmin as I've been told it's like Dianette but without the risks. I do have a doctor's appointment but that's not until this third pack of dianette runs out, I might ask about changing to a lower one. I was just so eager to be clear for september and now it looks like it's not going to happen!

[Holly137]

this is very similar to me! You know it's funny you say that improvement started, because last week my skin was starting to look better and I hadn't changed anything lifestyle wise and thought the dianette was kicking in! But a few days down the line my skin is worse..and not just in terms of spots, but just quality wise, it looks really dull. how long have you been on it for?

I've been on it 2 months now, just finished my 2nd pack. For roughly just over a week my skin looked like it was clearning - I still had breakouts but not as many, and they healed quicker, and the general tone and texture of my skin was better. The bumps on my forehead have also cleared up and it's finally smooth (mainly) with just the occasional spot rather than constantly bumpy. In the past few days though it has definitely deteriorated, in general condition as well as breakouts. Minus my forehead, that's still been pretty good. Although I think a lot of it was my fault because of picking, I must stop that.

Personally I think you might as well stay on it to see if it clears up, and if does, then maybe change to a different brand that you can stay on for for longer as Dianette isn't safe to take for years and years. There are other acne BCP, Dianette is just one of the stronger ones. I've also been on Yasmin (not specifically for acne, just for use as BC) and I actually developed acne whilst on this. But it's normally a good alternative but not as powerful. Especially seeing as you're starting uni. Talking from experience from when I started uni last year with horrible skin, I'd say definitely give it a go - you'll feel so much more confident meeting new people.

[hellojess]

this is very similar to me! You know it's funny you say that improvement started, because last week my skin was starting to look better and I hadn't changed anything lifestyle wise and thought the dianette was kicking in! But a few days down the line my skin is worse..and not just in terms of spots, but just quality wise, it looks really dull. how long have you been on it for?

I've been on it 2 months now, just finished my 2nd pack. For roughly just over a week my skin looked like it was clearning - I still had breakouts but not as many, and they healed quicker, and the general tone and texture of my skin was better. The bumps on my forehead have also cleared up and it's finally smooth (mainly) with just the occasional spot rather than constantly bumpy. In the past few days though it has definitely deteriorated, in general condition as well as breakouts. Minus my forehead, that's still been pretty good. Although I think a lot of it was my fault because of picking, I must stop that.

Personally I think you might as well stay on it to see if it clears up, and if does, then maybe change to a different brand that you can stay on for for longer as Dianette isn't safe to take for years and years. There are other acne BCP, Dianette is just one of the stronger ones. I've also been on Yasmin (not specifically for acne, just for use as BC) and I actually developed acne whilst on this. But it's normally a good alternative but not as powerful. Especially seeing as you're starting uni. Talking from experience from when I started uni last year with horrible skin, I'd say definitely give it a go - you'll feel so much more confident meeting new people.

That's very similar timing too - I've just checked and I actually only just started my third pack last friday. Over the past few days I have 3 new spots on my forehead and one on my chin, all are blind and under the skin and are very painful! Normally my acne is small whiteheads and lots of bumps under the skin and clogged pores and not like this. It doesn't even get worse on the 7 day break really, so I can't think why it's acting up now.

Yes it is tempting because I so wanted to start uni with nice skin, and I think after 5 months maybe there'd be improvement. I'm also going to a festival at the end of this month where I won't be wearing makeup so this is an issue for me aswell. This may seem crazy seen as I've been on it so short a time, but as I know it's short term (especially for me as there is a higher stroke risk) I'm already paranoid about what's going to happen when I come off it!

It's so hard trying to work out what's going to help and juggling short-term gains and long-term ones. I know in the short term dianette could work for me, but the longer term side effects really bother me.

[Holly137]

Maybe if the long term effects bother you that much then just switch straight to Yasmin or Ortho without a break or weaning yourself off them. But seeing as you have no side effects yet, I'd say it was worth giving it a go to get rid of it as some people have no side effects whatsoever, and then switch to something else to maintain. But if you're really really worried then maybe ask to switch when you've got your next appointment to put your mind at rest.

[AcneSlayer]

I think you should switch to a lower estogen birth control because it will most likely have less risks. I suggest OTC LO. I had absolutely no weight gain on it.

I'm on OTC Lo and gained 20 pounds

[hellojess]

hmm well I think I'm going to continue for at least another 3 months given that I definitely need reassurance I'm not going to get a period whilst I'm at a festival for a week (can't imagine anything worse!) and that I really want clear skin for when I start uni.

after that I'll just evaluate how it's working and maybe consider weaning off it and going onto another pill, but for now I've decided to stick it out. Hopefully it'll pay off *crosses fingers*



also another question about weight gain in general with BCP, not just dianette - does it make a difference what your weight/metabolism was like beforehand? Because I know people who have claimed it makes them gain weight, but these girls have always struggled with maintaining weight anyway, but my best friend has been on the pill for a while now and stayed a size 6 and she's naturally very thin even though she eats a ton.

[WishClear127]

also another question about weight gain in general with BCP, not just dianette - does it make a difference what your weight/metabolism was like beforehand? Because I know people who have claimed it makes them gain weight, but these girls have always struggled with maintaining weight anyway, but my best friend has been on the pill for a while now and stayed a size 6 and she's naturally very thin even though she eats a ton.

That's probably true. I've always been thin, and my metabolism is very fast, and OTC and OTC LO didn't cause weight gain.

[hellojess]

also another question about weight gain in general with BCP, not just dianette - does it make a difference what your weight/metabolism was like beforehand? Because I know people who have claimed it makes them gain weight, but these girls have always struggled with maintaining weight anyway, but my best friend has been on the pill for a while now and stayed a size 6 and she's naturally very thin even though she eats a ton.

That's probably true. I've always been thin, and my metabolism is very fast, and OTC and OTC LO didn't cause weight gain.

Hopefully I'll be alright then, because in nearly 3 months my weight hasn't changed. I'm still unsure how it actually makes you gain weight anyway - is it increased appetite, water retention, or does it vary?

[abigailwheeler]

Hey!

I've been on Dianette and am currently on Yasmin. Dianette was a nightmare for me. I was an emotional wreck. I actually broke down in tears at work because my computer was running slowly.

Personally, Yasmin has been fantastic for me. I've not gained any weight but my boobs are massive.

BCPs don't make you gain weight - possibly cause you to retain a little extra water... But the main reason for weight gain on BCP is that you get an increase in appetite - the pill essentially tricks the body into thinking it's already pregnant and thus you get a little bit more peckish than usual.

I think that's right...?

[hellojess]

Hey!

I've been on Dianette and am currently on Yasmin. Dianette was a nightmare for me. I was an emotional wreck. I actually broke down in tears at work because my computer was running slowly.

Personally, Yasmin has been fantastic for me. I've not gained any weight but my boobs are massive.

BCPs don't make you gain weight - possibly cause you to retain a little extra water... But the main reason for weight gain on BCP is that you get an increase in appetite - the pill essentially tricks the body into thinking it's already pregnant and thus you get a little bit more peckish than usual.

I think that's right...?

Oh dear..at least you found something that works for you though! I do feel a bit more prone to crying and being emotional the past month, but it's nothing major really. I'm worried about my boobs getting bigger! I know for most people they like it but I have such a petite frame it'd look ridiculous for me

So BCP doesn't affect your metabolism? I think if I'm aware it's just the appetite thing it should be pretty easy to control, but you hear about girls on the pill not changing anything diet wise and still gaining weight.

Did Dianette clear your skin, and how long were you on it for?

[abigailwheeler]

I'd speak to the doctor if you're worried about weight gain - I'm not an expert but I'd assume that weight gain with no change of diet is the result of water retention (which shouldn't last because the body is pretty good at adjusting).

I gained a heap of weight on mycrogynon and that was purely because I was permanently starving. If you're worried about the hunger, I drink green tea to fill the hole in between meals. Hot water makes you feel full.

Yeah I agree RE giant boobs, I'm not a fan, they make me look slutty. My boyfriend is loving it but I think it looks classier to have more modest tits. That's just personal opinion though...

I was literally on Dianette for two weeks, I couldn't even stick out the full pack. I couldn't work properly because I was so overly emotional.

To be honest, Yasmin didn't clear my acne either.

PS My hairdresser's daughter had extremely bad acne all over her face and got 100% clear from Dianette so make sure you don't just listen to me, what doesnt work for one person might totally cure another

[hellojess]

I'd speak to the doctor if you're worried about weight gain - I'm not an expert but I'd assume that weight gain with no change of diet is the result of water retention (which shouldn't last because the body is pretty good at adjusting).

I gained a heap of weight on mycrogynon and that was purely because I was permanently starving. If you're worried about the hunger, I drink green tea to fill the hole in between meals. Hot water makes you feel full.

Yeah I agree RE giant boobs, I'm not a fan, they make me look slutty. My boyfriend is loving it but I think it looks classier to have more modest tits. That's just personal opinion though...

I was literally on Dianette for two weeks, I couldn't even stick out the full pack. I couldn't work properly because I was so overly emotional.

To be honest, Yasmin didn't clear my acne either.

PS My hairdresser's daughter had extremely bad acne all over her face and got 100% clear from Dianette so make sure you don't just listen to me, what doesnt work for one person might totally cure another

I've started drinking big mugs of hot water and lemon and eating fruit whenever I feel hungry between meals and this is working in supressing my appetite. I never used to snack a lot until recently. I've also decided to try and do a paleo kind of thing with my diet, I eat quite a lot of bread and pasta and stuff and it's not unhealthy, but I just want to give it a go and see how my skin fares with just eating fruit, veg, nuts, and fish.

Yeah I kind of agree, all my family have massive boobs and I was quite glad I haven't followed tradition! All my mum does is complain about back pain and finding bras to fit.

I'm really hoping Dianette will work for me..my auntie has bad skin too and it cleared her up loads when she was on it, but she's not on any bcp now and it's bad again.

Can I ask how your skin is now?

edit - also, I've just noticed you're using the clinique anti-blemish stuff, is it working for you? I started using it around new year and my skin was better then, but it was really harsh on my skin. I've been debating whether to go back and buy some.

Edited by hellojess, 10 August 2011 - 08:11 AM.

[abigailwheeler]

I'd speak to the doctor if you're worried about weight gain - I'm not an expert but I'd assume that weight gain with no change of diet is the result of water retention (which shouldn't last because the body is pretty good at adjusting).

I gained a heap of weight on mycrogynon and that was purely because I was permanently starving. If you're worried about the hunger, I drink green tea to fill the hole in between meals. Hot water makes you feel full.

Yeah I agree RE giant boobs, I'm not a fan, they make me look slutty. My boyfriend is loving it but I think it looks classier to have more modest tits. That's just personal opinion though...

I was literally on Dianette for two weeks, I couldn't even stick out the full pack. I couldn't work properly because I was so overly emotional.

To be honest, Yasmin didn't clear my acne either.

PS My hairdresser's daughter had extremely bad acne all over her face and got 100% clear from Dianette so make sure you don't just listen to me, what doesnt work for one person might totally cure another

I've started drinking big mugs of hot water and lemon and eating fruit whenever I feel hungry between meals and this is working in supressing my appetite. I never used to snack a lot until recently. I've also decided to try and do a paleo kind of thing with my diet, I eat quite a lot of bread and pasta and stuff and it's not unhealthy, but I just want to give it a go and see how my skin fares with just eating fruit, veg, nuts, and fish.

Yeah I kind of agree, all my family have massive boobs and I was quite glad I haven't followed tradition! All my mum does is complain about back pain and finding bras to fit.

I'm really hoping Dianette will work for me..my auntie has bad skin too and it cleared her up loads when she was on it, but she's not on any bcp now and it's bad again.

Can I ask how your skin is now?

edit - also, I've just noticed you're using the clinique anti-blemish stuff, is it working for you? I started using it around new year and my skin was better then, but it was really harsh on my skin. I've been debating whether to go back and buy some.

Yeah I feel like BCPs aren't a long term solution - you can't stick on them forever.

I definitely recommend the paelo diet. I feel so much healthier to eat well.

My skin is healing but my derm prescribed epiduo which I think is the catylist in the healing process. I've got a skin diary on my profile if you want to have a proper look.

I need to change my sig - the only Clinique products I'm still using are the bar soap and the foundation (the foundation is AWESOME). I'm going to try and return everything else. It's really harsh and I don't want to make my skin dependant on that stuff.

The toner I use now is the best I've ever tried, cheapest and most natural. I make it myself - it's 1/3 rooibos tea, 1/3 lemon juice and 1/3 ACV with a few drops of teatree oil.

[hellojess]

Yeah I feel like BCPs aren't a long term solution - you can't stick on them forever.

I definitely recommend the paelo diet. I feel so much healthier to eat well.

My skin is healing but my derm prescribed epiduo which I think is the catylist in the healing process. I've got a skin diary on my profile if you want to have a proper look.

I need to change my sig - the only Clinique products I'm still using are the bar soap and the foundation (the foundation is AWESOME). I'm going to try and return everything else. It's really harsh and I don't want to make my skin dependant on that stuff.

The toner I use now is the best I've ever tried, cheapest and most natural. I make it myself - it's 1/3 rooibos tea, 1/3 lemon juice and 1/3 ACV with a few drops of teatree oil.



Yeah unfortunately I think I'll try and stick with it even if it doesn't make a difference to my skin as it'll help my long term health. I started today, had a yummy bowl of fruit and nuts for my breakfast with a fruit smoothie and I'm going to try and eat more oily fish like mackerel and tuna as that's really good for you. I fear I'm going to miss my pasta a lot though.. I might include stuff in as treats after I've been doing the diet properly for a while.

I have the foundation too, it is really good The toner in particular made my eyes water it was that strong! I think it just depends on your skin sensitivity though, because I have a friend who swears by it.

I love rooibos tea! I use green tea as a toner but I drink rooibos quite a lot with a nice slice of lemon. Hopefully this health kick will work! I'll check out your profile diary too, thanks for being helpful

[abigailwheeler]

Yeah unfortunately I think I'll try and stick with it even if it doesn't make a difference to my skin as it'll help my long term health. I started today, had a yummy bowl of fruit and nuts for my breakfast with a fruit smoothie and I'm going to try and eat more oily fish like mackerel and tuna as that's really good for you. I fear I'm going to miss my pasta a lot though.. I might include stuff in as treats after I've been doing the diet properly for a while.

I have the foundation too, it is really good The toner in particular made my eyes water it was that strong! I think it just depends on your skin sensitivity though, because I have a friend who swears by it.

I love rooibos tea! I use green tea as a toner but I drink rooibos quite a lot with a nice slice of lemon. Hopefully this health kick will work! I'll check out your profile diary too, thanks for being helpful

My pleasure!

That sounds like a delicious breakfast! I usually eat porridge for breakfast with water, apples and sultanas. I feel like I need the oats to keep me going - paleo sure doesn't allow for any other carbs! My skin has gotten a lot better since I started eating a tin of mackerel every day. Avocados are also really good for the skin but they are mega expensive here

Well I am wanting to get my skin non-sensitive. I want to wean myself off the harsh products and use only natural things. My boyfriend doesn't even wash his face and has flawless skin so I think I've been doing something wrong...?

Yeah! I drink like, 8 cups of rooibos tea a day. The lemon sounds like a really delicious addition, especially because I heard it speeds up your metabolism.

I used to use a normal green tea for toner but read this article and changed things up. Rooibos success article link

It's a really good idea to keep a photo diary, the one I keep on my computer is of my skin every single day. It helps to see it slowly getting better AND I have something to help out the dermatologist when I see her.

Edited by abigailwheeler, 10 August 2011 - 08:43 AM.