Birth Control for Acne
Pregnancy can be prevented safely and successfully using birth control tablets. But do you know that many women also take birth control for acne? They are often recommended for healthy women who also need contraception and are also known as oral contraceptive tablets.
Blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and cystic acne are all conditions that can be treated with certain birth control tablets. When other therapies have failed to control stubborn hormonal acne over the lower face, jaw, and neckline, they can be particularly beneficial.
Here is a detailed overview of how birth control pills work for acne treatment.
How do birth control pills work?
Synthetic (artificial) hormones in oral contraceptives for acne stop sperm from fertilising eggs. It accomplishes this by:
- Preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg
- Preventing the sperm from fertilising the egg
- Modifying the cervical mucus’ consistency so that the sperm cannot reach the egg
- Changing the uterus’ lining to prevent implantation
The hormones progesterone and oestrogen are found in synthetic form in several birth control medications. These are known as combination pills. Each version of the combo tablet has a different hormone ratio.
Progestin, a synthetic version of progesterone, is the only ingredient in other birth control tablets. Sometimes, people call them “minipills“.
How does birth control treat acne?
Every teenager is aware that there is a direct link between hormones and acne. As their hormone levels fluctuate during their cycle, some women have acne flare-ups before their periods. And for others, acne keeps recurring over time, even after menopause.
Excessive sebum production is what causes acne. Sebum is an oil produced by skin glands. Sebum can block pores and encourage the development of germs that cause acne and skin cells. The androgens hormones, including testosterone, cause your skin to create sebum.
The level of androgens regularly produced by a woman’s ovaries and adrenal glands is minimal. Excess sebum production may result from higher androgen levels. The androgens level in your body reduces by using birth control tablets that include both oestrogen and progesterone. It produces less sebum and less severe acne.
Benefits of birth control for acne
Birth control pills can assist acne-prone skin in several ways. The following are some possible advantages of birth control tablets for acne:
1. Regulating hormone levels
Acne occurs due to hormonal abnormalities. Birth control pills for acne can aid in the body’s hormonal regulation, reducing the quantity of sebum produced by your sebaceous glands and lowering the risk of blocked pores and breakouts.
2. Reducing inflammation
Oestrogen and progestin-containing birth control tablets may have anti-inflammatory effects that can help lessen acne-related inflammation and redness.
3. Fewer hormonal fluctuations
During the menstrual cycle, fluctuations in hormone levels can make acne worse. Birth control pills for acne can assist in balancing these hormone levels, reducing hormonal swings and the possibility of acne breakouts.
4. Complementary to other acne treatments
To enhance overall skin health, birth control pills can be used with other acne treatment forms, including topical creams and antibiotics.
5. Fewer pimples
Contraceptive pills for acne can help to improve skin texture by reducing the occurrence of pimples.
6. Less severe acne
These pills are highly effective in treating severe acne by reducing the testosterone level in the body.
Can I get birth control pills online in Singapore?
Birth control pills can be purchased in Singapore via telemedicine providers or online pharmacies, like Ova. It’s crucial to remember that laws are in place to guarantee the appropriate and safe use of drugs, including birth control tablets. You will normally need a telemedicine session with a qualified healthcare physician to buy birth control pills in Singapore.
Conclusion
Birth control pills can be an excellent acne medication for certain people. They work well for treating all forms of acne and can be taken alone or in combination with other treatments. Acne-friendly birth control pills reduce the body’s testosterone levels, leading to fewer breakouts and less severe acne overall.
FAQs related to birth control pills for acne
1. Which birth control pill helps with acne?
Several best contraceptive pills for acne are available, such as:
- Ortho Tri-Cyclen
- Yaz
- Estrostep
2. How long until the pill clears the acne?
After starting birth control pills, you might anticipate an improvement in your acne within two to three months.
3. Can hormonal acne be treated with birth control?
Both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne can improve in girls and women who use birth control tablets. The female sex hormones progestin and oestrogen are included in the acne-fighting tablets.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Book a consultation with Ova Singapore’s medical team to learn more about reproductive healthcare treatments here.