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Many women are more prone to acne breakouts during certain periods of their menstrual cycle, because of the changes in hormone levels.

You might think that taking hormonal contraception would only make things worse —- but actually, there are skincare-friendly contraceptive pills that can even help in keeping acne breakouts at bay.

For those who struggle with acne, oral contraceptive pills for women can be a dual-purpose solution, offering both effective contraception and clearer skin. Certain formulations of contraceptive pills are particularly skin-enhancing, targeting the hormonal imbalances that often cause acne.

How Oral Contraceptive Pills Can Solve Acne Problems?

Acne can be triggered by androgens, male hormones present in both men and women, which increase the production of sebum (oil) in the skin. Excessive sebum can clog pores, leading to acne. Contraceptive pills containing estrogen and progestin help to reduce androgen levels in the body, thereby decreasing sebum production and helping to prevent acne breakouts.

The Science Behind the Skincare-Friendly Oral Contraceptive Pills

Cyproterone acetate is an anti-androgen medication commonly used in combination with estrogen in certain oral contraceptive pills to help treat acne.

Cyproterone acetate blocks androgen receptors, reducing the effects of male hormones (androgens) such as testosterone. Androgens are known to increase sebum production, which can clog pores and lead to acne. By blocking these receptors, cyproterone acetate decreases the amount of sebum produced by sebaceous glands in the skin.

This contraception also reduces the overall production of androgens by the ovaries and adrenal glands. With fewer androgens circulating in the bloodstream, there’s less stimulation of the sebaceous glands, leading to reduced oil production and fewer acne breakouts.

By lowering androgen levels and blocking androgen receptors, cyproterone acetate helps to reduce the amount of oil produced by the skin, which is a key factor in the formation of acne. Less oil production means fewer clogged pores, which reduces the likelihood of inflammation and infection that contribute to acne formation.

For individuals with hormonal acne, especially women with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other androgen-excess disorders, oral contraceptive pills with cyproterone acetate can help balance hormone levels, leading to clearer skin.

Conclusion

Oral contraceptive pills can be a beneficial option for those seeking both birth control and clearer skin. By addressing the hormonal causes of acne, these skincare-friendly formulations provide a dual benefit, helping you achieve a healthier complexion while effectively preventing pregnancy. For better guidance, it’s best to consult with your doctor to find the most suitable oral contraceptive tailored to your needs.

While contraceptive pills with cyproterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol are generally effective in treating acne, individual responses can vary. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether this formulation is best suited for your specific needs and health profile. They can help assess your hormonal levels, medical history, and potential side effects to find the optimal solution.

In addition to taking oral contraceptives, maintaining a gentle skincare routine can enhance their acne-fighting effects. Use mild cleansers, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate the skin.

Sources:

Piquero Martín J, Acosta H. Uso del acetato de ciproterona en el tratamiento del acné [Use of cyproterone acetate in the treatment of acne]. Med Cutan Ibero Lat Am. 1982;10(4):261-6. Spanish. PMID: 6222232.

J. Hammerstein, J. Meckies, I. Leo-Rossberg, L. Moltz, F. Zielske, Use of cyproterone acetate (CPA) in the treatment of acne, hirsutism and virilism, Journal of Steroid Biochemistry, Volume 6, Issue 6, 1975, Pages 827-836, ISSN 0022-4731, https://doi.org/10.1016/0022-4731(75)90311-8

Słopień R, Milewska E, Rynio P, Męczekalski B. Use of oral contraceptives for management of acne vulgaris and hirsutism in women of reproductive and late reproductive age. Prz Menopauzalny. 2018 Mar;17(1):1-4. doi: 10.5114/pm.2018.74895. Epub 2018 Apr 11. PMID: 29725277; PMCID: PMC5925193.

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