My daughter is 14 and has been on several antibiotics for acne since the age of 11. We used the drug Accutane as a last resort. Though her skin was perfectly clear at the end of the treatment, her acne returned full force after she was off the drug for six months. Furthermore, her periods have been irregular ever since she started at the age of 12. I've heard of teenagers using birth control to regulate periods and clear acne as well. Should I consider this? We're desperate.
--B.H.
Birth control pills are a great way of killing two (or more) birds with one stone. In addition to providing protection against pregnancy (which I certainly hope is not a concern at age 14!), they can regulate cycles, decrease menstrual cramping and clear up skin. In fact, in Europe, the pill is frequently prescribed for no other reason than to help clear up acne.
Although all birth control pills can help fight acne, only one (Ortho TriCyclen) has gone through the FDA process to be able to state that its formulation helps prevent and treat acne. For many young (and some not-so-young) women, the pill is all that is needed to banish pimples. Others will need medications like Accutane as well. Because Accutane can cause serious birth defects, all women using it who are sexually active MUST be using an effective means of contraception. The pill can provide the contraception and help with the acne on its own by lowering androgen (male hormone) levels.
A dermatologist can prescribe the pill as well as Accutane and topical or oral antibiotics used to treat acne.
