Acne is often stereotyped as a skin problem that happens to teenage boys. As with many stereotypes, it is based on half-truths. Teenagers are the most likely to suffer from chronic acne breakouts due to their increased testosterone levels, and men are more likely than women to both have acne and to suffer from more severe cases of acne.
Unfortunately, being female or being an adult does not protect you from acne; acne is the most common skin condition, and nearly everyone is affected by acne at one point in their life. For women, however, oral contraceptives and other hormonal therapies provide a powerful and convenient treatment option.
Oral contraceptives have been used as treatment options for women who suffer from moderate to severe adult acne. It can be used in conjunction with topical therapy, and has proven to be an effective method to treat acne. The exact mechanism of acne production is complex, but we do know that androgens or "the male hormones" as most of us know it, have a significant impact on acne. As men produce more of this hormone and especially in their teenage years, teenage boys are the most likely candidates to have severe and chronic acne.
Excess androgens cause oil glands to enlarge and produce excess oil, causing the pores to become clogged, which starts the initial stages of acne. Oral contraceptives are made of estrogens and progestins reducing the production of androgen in the body.
The goal is to reduce the androgen levels, which will contain acne production from its root cause. Some examples of oral contraceptives that are used in treating acne include Alesse®, Diane-35®, Yasmin®, and Tri-Cyclen®.
Advice when using oral contraceptives:
Oral contraceptives are most effective as part of a combination therapy
Ask your dermatologist's opinion if you are interested in taking oral contraceptives to treat acne. They can provide you with important information such as dosage, use, and potential side-effects. Remember that like any other drug, oral contraceptives can have side-effects, and can interact with other drugs.
Clearance will take time and patience like most other acne treatments. Remember to follow your doctor's instructions.
