Can Birth Control Pills Help Treat Acne?

photo by: Katie Tegtmeyer

My doctor put my daughter on birth control pills to help with her acne. Why is that?
– Melissa

Some teens need extra help controlling acne, so their doctor or dermatologist may prescribe medication. Depending on the severity of the acne, prescription creams, antibiotics, or stronger medicines may be used.

For some teen girls, certain birth control pills help clear up acne because the pills stabilize the fluctuating hormones that can cause extra oil on the skin and acne. Doctors may try different treatments, including birth control pills, to see what works best.

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: April 2012

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