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, birth control pills, or stronger medicines may be used. For some teen girls, birth control pills help clear up acne because the pills stabilize the fluctuating hormones that can cause acne. Doctors and dermatologists often try different medications including birth control pills to see what works best for each person.

For more information, check out these articles:

Skin, Hair, and Nails
Acne Myths
How Long Does Acne Last?

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: October 2006
Originally reviewed by: Neil Izenberg, MD

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