Why Do Birth Control Pills Help Oil Secretions?
Birth control pills are sometimes prescribed to treat acne. They work by decreasing sebum production, as excess sebum (an oily secretion) is a major cause of acne.
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Causes
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Oil secretions by the skin are influenced by hormones. When pores are blocked by excess oil, dead skin and/or bacteria, acne is formed.
Function
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Birth control pills help decrease oil secretions by affecting the amount of androgen, a hormone that influences oil production, is released by the ovaries.
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Time Frame
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If taken to decrease oil secretions and help acne, birth control pills may take several months to work. Additional treatments, such as salicylic acid, are recommended during this time.
Side Effects
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Side effects may include breast tenderness, mood changes, nausea, headaches, increased risk of blood clots and even increased acne.
Types
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According to the Mayo Clinic, three different estrogen/progestin combination pills have been FDA approved to treat acne: ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate (Ortho Tri-Cyclen), ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone (Estrostep) and ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone (Yaz).
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