Hormonal contraceptives can do more than prevent pregnancy. In fact, some are approved by the FDA for treating skin conditions such as acne. A 2025 review published in Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology found that after six months of combined oral contraceptive treatment, about two-thirds of participants experienced fewer inflamed pimples.
For many women, acne tends to worsen before or during the menstrual cycle, indicating a hormonal trigger rather than a simple skin care issue. Because of that connection, clinicians frequently consider hormonal therapy in acne treatment plans. In appropriate candidates, birth control can be a medically supported acne treatment.
Hormonal birth control can improve acne by addressing one of its underlying drivers, hormone-related oil production. Androgens, a class of hormones that includes testosterone, signal to the oil glands in the skin to produce sebum. Sebum is a natural oil that protects the skin and hair, but overproduction can lead to inflammation and clogged pores. Certain contraceptives help balance these hormones and reduce excess oil.
Combination pills that contain estrogen and progestin are commonly recommended because estrogen lowers androgen activity. As oil production decreases, the skin often clears up over time. Hormonal vaginal rings work through the same pathway, releasing hormones steadily throughout the month. This can help regulate the hormone fluctuations that contribute to acne breakouts.
Oral contraceptive pills and vaginal rings can improve acne by reducing the hormonal swings that occur with ovulation. When ovulation is suppressed, levels of ovarian hormones remain steadier throughout the month. For acne flares tied to predictable cycle-related shifts, that stability can translate into fewer blemishes and breakouts.
Beyond stabilizing hormones, oral contraceptive methods change how the body processes and responds to androgens. Estrogen, for example, increases a liver protein called sex hormone-binding globulin, or SHBG. This protein binds circulating testosterone, limiting its ability to act on the skin and leading to fewer stimulation signals for the oil glands. Over time, this can translate into fewer flare-ups and reduced overall oiliness.
The FDA has specifically approved three combination pills for acne treatment: Yaz, ortho Tri-Cyclen, and Estrostep. A doctor can help choose a birth control formulation that fits your goals, skin type, and overall health.
Hormonal treatments work alongside your skin’s natural renewal cycle, so improvements happen gradually. Most people notice fewer new breakouts after one to three menstrual cycles. Early changes often include less oiliness and fewer deep, painful lesions. More visible clearing typically follows with continued use.
Because everyone’s body is different, ongoing check-ins help make sure treatment is working well for you. During follow-up, your doctor may:
Regular check-ins help fine-tune treatment so results may continue to improve over time.
Choosing the right birth control means finding a method that fits your health needs, lifestyle, and goals. Factors such as medical history, smoking status, migraine or blood clot risk, and comfort with daily or monthly options all influence which method is most appropriate. Hormonal contraceptives can provide benefits beyond pregnancy prevention, including managing acne, regulating cycles, and reducing hormone-related symptoms. A conversation with a healthcare professional ensures your therapy is safe and effective.
Getting started with Counsel is simple. You can first chat with our medical AI at no cost to review your symptoms, health history, and potential treatment options. If appropriate, a licensed physician can join the same secure chat to confirm your care plan, answer questions, and prescribe the medication, which can be picked up at your local pharmacy.
Ongoing check-ins with Counsel allow your clinician to monitor your response, manage side effects, and adjust your plan as needed. You can return to the same conversation at any time, ensuring your treatment remains safe, effective, and aligned with your health goals.
Begin a secure conversation today to explore whether birth control may be right for you.
The Counsel Health editorial team is a multidisciplinary group of writers and editors dedicated to delivering clinically grounded, evidence-based health information. Their work is informed by real-world care delivery and guided by physician expertise, ensuring content is accurate, accessible, and trustworthy. By translating complex medical topics into clear, practical guidance, the team helps readers understand their health, explore care options, and make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
Dr. Rishi Khakhkhar is CMO at Counsel Health. A practicing emergency physician and founding team member, he leads the clinical team in building best-in-class asynchronous care models. Previously, he served as Medical Director of Mount Sinai’s Virtual Urgent Care, the health system’s largest telemedicine service, and led emergency department operations for Hospital-at-Home while supporting mobile integrated health initiatives across the care continuum.
Our content is created for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical care. For personalized guidance, talk to a licensed physician. Learn more about our editorial standards and review process.
