Can The Contraceptive Pill Cure Acne?

'My skin has never looked better.'

A woman has shared before and after photos of her acne, claiming that the contraceptive pill helped clear her skin.

Imgur user 'seventytimes' uploaded the photographs with the caption: "If you guys are wondering what else birth control can do..."

The photos show her skin when she had acne juxtaposed with images of her skin now.

Doctors say the contraceptive pill can help sure acne for some people, but the results are "hit and miss".

On Imgur the woman wrote: "My dermatologist was convinced I'd have to go on Accutane [a drug used to treat severe acne].

"Fortunately for me (and all women of child-bearing age), it's required by law for you to use two forms of birth control (due to the severe birth defects that accompany the drug) and I started the pill a month in advance.

"Five months later, my skin has never looked better. No Accutane necessary."

So can the contraceptive pill help other women suffering with acne?

Dr Helen Webberley, the dedicated GP for Oxford Online Pharmacy, told The Huffington Post UK that it can be hit and miss.

"We have known for many years that the contraceptive pill can really help some people who suffer with acne, although others do find that the medication can have an adverse effect on their condition," she explained.

"All brands can help, but a specific anti-androgen containing pill actually holds a license for treating acne.

"However, it also carries a slightly higher risk of abnormal blood clots, so some doctors are wary of prescribing it."

She continued: "Aside from the pill, there are many other very effective treatments for acne.

"Men, women and children should never be scared of persevering with their doctor or pharmacist until they find a treatment that works for them.

"With the right treatment, the days of bad acne and severe scarring should be over."

Lemon

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