Hormonal Therapy
Reviews
3.3
2743 Reviews
Hormonal Therapy
Efficacy
63%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Note: Improvement significantly increases after 24 weeks.
Hormonal Therapy
Side Effects
High
Hormonal Therapy
Acne.org’s Real World Take
Any brand of oral contraceptive appears to clear the skin about the same amount, regardless of whether it is officially approved for acne treatment. Some people report complete clearing of acne symptoms and others see partial relief. However, artificially controlling your hormones is a serious decision, so it’s best to proceed with caution.
Hormonal Therapy
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this medication. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Read All About Oral Contraceptives
Compare To Other Treatments
5
19.7%
4
30.4%
3
21.8%
2
16%
1
12%

Used Oral Contraceptives? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
November 16, 2007

Pros:

No Pregnancy

Cons:

After a while I started getting cramps again, slight acne, heavy period

For the first year or so I loved it, now i get cramps really bad, and i get acne (which i never had before) right before and after periods. and my periods are a LOT heavier and longer. I havent gotten pregnant though!
November 15, 2007

Pros:

no pregnancy, no cramps

Cons:

horrible anxiety, panic attacks, crippling depression, irritability, loss of libido,

amanda is right ladies, do your own research. i have been off this pill for 4 months now after 4 years on and i am completely serious when i say it devastated my life. don't believe that your gyno has all the answers for you. do your own research.
November 11, 2007

Pros:

Creates only tiny mood change, reduces acne (tho I still need antibiotics) & is anti-androgenic. I have tried several combined pills (marvelon, mercilon ++) and they made me depressed/spotty/fat. No weight gain (but bigger boobs) with Yasmin.

Cons:

Occasional spotting if you run several packs together to avoid having periods, (probably) slightly higher risk of SERIOUS side effects (blood clots, lung problems) so be sure you're super healthy before using this one. I've read plenty of research...

The best I have tried by miles, as doesn't create as bad mood swings as other pills (for me). As with all pills, you MUST give it 2-3 months for your body to get used to it. Your body will revolt at first, which is normal. I've been on it for years. People in the UK beware: this drug is one of the more expensive brands, thus your doctor will be reluctant to prescribe it as it'll cost them, but of course this could also be cos you're particularly prone to the risks I mentioned in the cons. No harm in asking why the doc is saying no! It's the most popular pill in many northern European countries where the pill is not free, which says something. You'll probably only fully appreciate Yasmin if you've been on other pills before that did not agree with you.
October 25, 2007

Pros:

no babies, safely take after age 35

Cons:

moody, acne, fatigued, weight gain, achey joints.

Been on it a month.... hoping these things will work themselves out.
October 23, 2007

Pros:

protects against pregnancy, regular periods, helps cramps

Cons:

I have never had acne until taking this product. Now my chin is breaking out horribly. I have gone to the dermatologist several times and nothing is fixing it. I have gained weight and I feel bloated.

I went to my doctor today and she switched me to Yasmin. Suppossly this will help my acne. We'll see. If it wasn't for the acne I could stand Ortho Tricyclen Lo.
October 22, 2007

Pros:

No babies

Cons:

acne got way worse, PMS, achey back, weight gain

I've never suffered from PMS but while taking this I seem to be PMSing non-stop. I didn't take this for the purpose of birth control, but to clear up acne, and birth control is the only benifit I'm getting out of it.
October 6, 2007

Pros:

just spotting, no cramps, breasts seem to be getting bigger afer only 1 month!

Cons:

Very sore breasts, emotional

It's been just over a month, doctor reccomended for a higher sex drive- seems to be working. Sex is more frequent and closer to orgasm,but My boobs are sore as hell and I've grown out of my bras! I've had a few emotional breakdowns where I couldn't stop crying! Not like me at all!
October 4, 2007

Pros:

Lighter periods, no cramps, Made my ovarian cysts go away

Cons:

Nasuea

Great pill. Haven't experienced harsh side effects like other women from previous reviews.Just minor upset stomach. My libido is also still there. Everyone is different, so do find out what works for your body. :-)
October 3, 2007

Pros:

Not sure. 3rd week only

Cons:

My skin is super broken out. Especially along the jawline and forehead.

I guess i'll have to wait and see. How long did it take for your skin to clear up completely? I was put on Yasmin especially for my skin but it has just gotten worse :( Any hope that it will clear up soon?
September 21, 2007

Pros:

No Pregnancy, No PMS, No pain or breakthrough bleeding.

Cons:

Acne worse, though it has only been 2 months.

My PMS and menstrual cramps are so horrible that this is a life saver. I tried ortho a couple of years ago and had cramping and bleeding every day for 4 months so I quit taking it. I am hoping that my acne is getting worse before it gets better, but am very relieved not to have the terrible pain every month.

Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.