Are you taking birth control for clearing acne?
One of the most common and accessible forms of birth control is the contraceptive pill (the pill).
Birth control pills, IUDs, implants and shots are widely used today and prescribed often as a means to control acne. Most forms of contraception have the potential to cause acne and even weight gain in those who are susceptible. While some women’s skin can benefit greatly from the use of birth control, others aren’t as lucky. Birth control stifles the body’s natural ability to produce certain hormones which in turn can potentially create hormonal imbalances that cause changes in our skin’s behavior.
And, doctors are prescribing birth control as quickly and spontaneously as they prescribe Vitamin C during flu season. It’s a quick fix for acne, and it makes the doc’s job easier because then they don’t have to teach you all of the real reason why you are breaking out. Birth control, for the most part, is a band aid for acne. It isn’t a lifelong solution.
How does birth control affect my skin?
Typically, birth control is categorized as estrogen or progestin dominant and have varying amounts of androgenic (testosterone like) effects. As a general rule of thumb, birth control that contains a higher percentage of progesterone will have a stronger androgenic effect which also carries a higher risk of inducing acne breakouts. Birth control is hardly a one-size-fits-all pill, but as your trusted skin care therapists, we’re here to help you navigate your options so you can choose one that is safe for acne prone skin.
So, while doctors are often prescribing it as a means to control acne, they often don’t even know which ones are safe for acne-prone skin and which ones are not. Many of our clients have cleared, once we have asked them to speak to their doctor about changing their birth control brand and chemical makeup.
We did the hard work for you!
We have compiled a list of commonly prescribed birth control options that can potentially either minimize or exacerbate your acne. This is a basic guideline that should be used to initiate a conversation between you and your physician.
As someone who suffers from acne, it’s important to speak to your physician about selecting a form of birth control that is higher in estrogen and lower in androgen potency.
There are many options in this category. And, we are happy to help you with them once you become a client.
It is best to avoid prescriptions which are high in androgen potency and low in estrogen.
Only you and your doctor can determine what form of birth control is right for you. If you are using birth control, it is important to know that it can be associated with a high risk of blood clots, weight gain, nausea, mood changes, depression and breast tenderness. Serious side effects include strokes, digestive issues, and embolism.
What about IUDs?
We have found IUDs to be very problematic for people who are prone to acne. Although the Paragard/Copper IUD does not contain any hormones, we have observed that is has aggravated acne with our clients.
Treating Acne Without Birth Control
Finally, it is entirely possible to treat acne without the use of birth control. If you have no underlying health issues that require you to be on birth control and are considering using contraceptives ONLY to manage your acne, you don’t have to. And, we don’t recommend it. Birth control may seem like an easy go-to option to cure your skin woes but there are alternative options such as topical products and treatments that can help you achieve the clear skin you’re dreaming of.
We love teaching our clients about the true cause of acne. Hormones are a factor for sure, and they can be managed with proper nutrition and natural supplements. A balanced and healthy lifestyle is the best alternative to acne, and we will teach you how to achieve it.
If you or your doctor is thinking about putting you or your child on birth control for acne, I encourage you to meet with us first. We will discuss all of your options with you and help you find a solution that feels right in your heart and soul.
Cheers to clear!
Rene