Oral Contraceptives in Acne

Oral contraceptives have alwyas been known to have a good effect on helping with acne. This is believed to be from suppressing the ovary from making androgens. In addition, there is an overall reduction of serum testosterone through estrogen-induced elevations of steroid hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Numerous brands have been shown to produce good results. These ranged from 50% to 100% over 3 to 12 months. Recent studies have listed the following for use in acne, in order of approval: TriCyclen, Diane 35, Alesse.

Patients who cannot take oral contraceptives include patients with high blood pressure, who smoke, who are pregnant, and who have migraines with aura (preceeding symptoms prior to the onset of headache).