How Can Birth Control Cause Acne? Understanding the Relationship
For decades, dermatologists have used birth control tablets to treat acne in women.
Acne is a prevalent skin ailment that impacts millions of individuals globally.
Hormonal imbalances are one of the many possible causes.
In general, birth control for acne treatment is frequently recommended for healthy women who also require contraception.
This article will investigate and answer the query, ‘Can birth control cause acne?’ and will give insights into how to treat it.
Does birth control cause acne
Yes, Progestin-only birth control can cause acne breakouts.
A 2019 study states that acne worsens in adult women with the use of Progestin-only contraception.
During this time, there is a relative rise in hormones with higher androgenic activity, which causes an acne flare.
Researchers have said that hormonal Intrauterine Devices, implants, and long-acting Progestin-only techniques may have a detrimental effect on acne or induce it in acne-prone women.
The study also mentions that discontinuation of Estrogen-containing oral contraceptives can cause acne too.
A recent study and report, while talking about the treatment of acne, also states that some oral contraception can cause acne.
This is because some people are more sensitive to certain types of Progestin.
Using a Progestin that is less androgenic generally works in treating these cases.
The next section explains the relationship between Androgens and acne, answering how can birth control cause acne.
Hormonal acne from birth control
Hormonal birth control influences hormone levels.
Contrary to the common belief that birth control improves skin, birth control can cause acne.
Contraceptive pills that contain Progestin (a synthetic form of Progesterone) have a higher possibility of causing acne, or hormonal acne, in comparison to alternative methods of birth control.
Androgens are hormones that regulate reproduction.
Although they’re usually associated with men, women also naturally produce a tiny amount of these hormones.
Androgens are linked to acne because studies have shown that a high amount of this hormone can make acne worse.
An overabundance of the Androgen hormone stimulates the sebaceous glands to secrete excessive sebum.
This oily substance clogs pores and has the potential to induce hormonal acne.
It has been established that hormonal birth control can make acne worse.
It is possible that the main ingredient in hormonal IUDs could make the person who uses them more likely to get acne.
It’s also usual for women to experience an initial acne flare as their bodies react to the hormones.
Most women’s bodies adjust to the hormones, and their skin settles down after two to three months.
Can birth control give you acne after stopping it
Stopping the birth control may also result in acne.
Acne following stopping birth control is caused by the body’s adjustment to the hormonal fluctuations it experiences, which results in an overproduction of sebum.
Hormonal contraceptives, such as combination pills, reduce the levels of Testosterone and other hormones.
If someone stops taking these pills, their Androgen or Testosterone levels may rise again, which can lead to acne.
This form of acne can last up to a year, with improvement expected to begin after six months.
However, the healing process can be sped up with the proper skincare regimen.
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There are many ways to treat acne, including those caused by birth control.
After a skin analysis, a doctor will be able to formulate a treatment regimen that is specific to an individual’s symptoms.
They might suggest:
- Topical treatments like creams or lotions
- Preventative antibiotics that kill germs
- Contraceptive capsules like combination birth control pills
- Therapies like light therapy, extractions, and drainage
Acne may be alleviated by one or a combination of the above treatments.
Conclusion
Acne is a widespread skin condition caused by hormonal imbalances.
Birth control tablets have been used for decades to treat acne in women.
While most oral contraceptives help with acne, Progestin-only birth control can cause acne breakouts.
Hormonal birth control can also cause acne by disrupting physiological processes.
Stopping birth control may also result in acne due to hormonal fluctuations.
A doctor can suggest treatments like creams, antibiotics, contraceptives, extractions, laser treatment, or light therapy to alleviate acne.
With the correct treatment, it is usually easy to get relief from acne caused by birth control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can changing birth control cause acne?
Yes, changing birth control methods can affect hormone levels, potentially leading to acne. Some contraceptives may increase Androgen levels, contributing to breakouts. It’s essential to consult a doctor when considering a switch in birth control to discuss potential side effects and find the most suitable option.
Can birth control cause acne after years?
Yes, discontinuing birth control pills can sometimes lead to an initial increase in acne due to hormonal fluctuations. However, this is typically temporary, and acne should stabilize as the body adjusts. If persistent, consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice is recommended.
How long does birth control acne last?
Birth control acne can last for varying durations, but the full benefits may take up to a year to be seen. The combined oral contraceptive pill can help improve acne in women, but it may take 2 to 3 months before the treatment starts working. Acne flare-ups are typical when a woman first begins taking birth control pills.
How do you get rid of acne from birth control?
Dermatologists may prescribe topical treatments to target and prevent acne. It’s common for acne to flare up when stopping birth control, and it may take several months for the skin to clear. Using FDA-approved birth control pills for acne treatment can also help reduce or eliminate breakouts.
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