How soon will birth control help acne?
If you take combination birth control pills to improve acne, it may take anywhere from a few weeks to 2 to 3 months before you notice a visible improvement. This is because the hormones need time to get into your system and recalibrate your levels.
What type of birth control is best for acne?
The best birth control pill for acne is a combination pill—one that contains both estrogen and progestin. The FDA has approved four such birth control pills for the treatment of acne: Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Estrostep Fe, Beyaz, and Yaz.
Does birth control clear up acne?
Birth control pills don’t clear up acne overnight. It may take several months of treatment before acne starts to clear, and flare-ups are common at the beginning of birth control acne treatment. Your doctor may prescribe topical treatments along with birth control pills.
Does birth control make acne worse before it gets better?
“The tricky part is that sometimes there’s a flare before the suppression occurs, which can temporarily make acne worse before it gets better. Sometimes the initial flare-ups occur because some pills’ progestin can have a pseudo-testosterone effect, which can cause a surge in breakouts.”
Can a gynecologist help with acne?
Although acne issues can be attributed to your hormones, it’s not always the case — and if so, your gynecologist can still help steer you in the right direction. “The OB/GYN is competent and capable of taking care of most issues associated with acne or breakouts,” Dr. Lara-Torre says.
Why is birth control making my acne worse?
Another possible link between an oral birth control pill and an increase in acne is when the pill contains progesterone only, commonly called the “mini pill.” In some cases, the lack of estrogen in the pill may allow for higher levels of androgens and, therefore, the potential for hormonal acne.
Should I see a dermatologist for hormonal acne?
Visit a doctor when the acne is severe, reoccurring, itchy or painful. It is also wise to see a dermatologist before you try any DIY products or over the counter items. A doctor can evaluate your acne and tell you what treatments are best for you and your skin.
How do doctors treat hormonal acne?
If your hormonal acne is mild, you may be able to use topical retinoids. Retinoids are derived from vitamin A. Many retinoid creams, gels, and lotions are available over the counter. But you may want to see your doctor about a prescription-strength formulation.
Can birth control make hormonal acne worse?
Birth control pills that only contain progesterone hormones, otherwise known as the mini pill, will make acne worse. Women who suffer from acne breakouts should steer clear of these contraceptives. Women can find relief from painful, annoying breakouts by taking birth control pills.