Birth control pills for acne?

Date Updated: 08/05/2020

Answer Section

Yes, birth control pills (oral contraceptives) can improve acne in women.

Though typically safe and effective, birth control pills for acne (combination estrogen-progestin pills) aren't for everyone. Side effects can include headache, breast tenderness, nausea, weight gain, breakthrough bleeding and a slightly increased risk of blood clots.

Talk to your doctor about how your health history and age may affect your risks with birth control pills for acne.

Don't take birth control pills for acne if you:

Are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Haven't reached puberty
Are over age 35 and smoke
Have a history of migraines
Have high blood pressure and vascular disease
Have a history of heart disease
Have a history of breast cancer, undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding or liver disease
Have a history of blood clots