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Oral contraceptives, otherwise known as birth control pills, are also approved to treat acne. They work by regulating male hormones in the female...

Oral contraceptives, otherwise known as birth control pills, are also approved to treat acne. They work by regulating male hormones in the female body. Less male hormones normally lead to less acne. 

Oral contraceptives contain an estrogen component (ethinyl estradiol) that is combined with progestin hormones, such as drospirenone (Yasmin® or Yaz®), norgestimate (Ortho Tri-Cyclen®) or norethindrone (Estrostep®). 

Oral contraceptives are taken once a day with a meal. Make sure to take the pill at the same time every day.

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January 16, 2007

Pros:

Minor cramps with period, no real serious mood swings, no depression

Cons:

helped my skin a little, but still get acne now and then. The biggest con and why I'm getting of it is into the fourth month my sex drive just vanished.

Ive heard birth control can zap your sex drive among causing other serious problems, but OTC Lo sounded like it might not since the hormone doses are low, but losing your sex drive is worse than having to use condoms.
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November 23, 2006
I had mild acne when I first started using OTC. Within the first month or so, my acne went from mild to severe. When I don't take birth control my acne clears up. I've switched to other forms of birth control (the ring, otc-lo...) and I still have the same issues. Also, nothing I've tried has worked to clear up my acne, and I've tried it all! So for now, I'm on a search with a dermatologist to find something that works in hopes that I can continue to use birth control.
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November 20, 2006
I have been on OTC Lo for about 8 months...the first 5 months my skin was 100% completely clear but now i have been getting a few break outs here and there, im thinking of switching to OTC, but still OTC Lo isn't bad. My acne is about 70% better now then it had been before i got on it.
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October 30, 2006

Pros:

I use Yaz and it has lessened my periods to only 2-3 days and made my moods generally more agreeable. Also, I rarely have cramps anymore.

Cons:

My acne has become horribly out of control. Before begining my bc regimen, I used proactive for a few years, had minimal breakouts. Now, my face is out of control. Furthermore, the acne is not in typical places, but on my cheeks& neck.

Bottom line, I would say use with caution. My gyno said the acne should be gone within three months, so I would encourage you to try it for a while, but if by that point your acne is not gone it may be time to try a more typical b.c. known for fighting acne.
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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.
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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:

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  • 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.
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