Can taking birth control pills cause acne?

In general, taking birth control pills may lead to acne.

The main components of birth control pills are estrogen and progestin, which can alter female hormone levels. Hormonal imbalances may cause endocrine disorders, which in turn can lead to acne. Birth control pills work by regulating hormone levels to inhibit ovulation and achieve contraception. During this process, the hormonal balance in women's bodies is disrupted, potentially causing a relative increase in androgens. This can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, making acne more likely. At the same time, endocrine disorders can also increase sebum production, leading to enlarged pores and recurring acne.

However, after taking birth control pills, hormone levels in women's bodies will gradually adjust and return to normal, and the acne condition will improve accordingly. During this period, it is important to keep the skin clean and dry to avoid secondary infections that could increase the number of pimples.

If acne develops after taking birth control pills, women should consult a doctor promptly to determine whether adjustment of the dosage or switching to another type of medication is necessary. Maintaining good lifestyle and dietary habits, such as keeping the skin clean, avoiding excessive squeezing of pimples, and consuming fewer spicy or irritating foods, can also help alleviate acne problems.