Yes. Birth control pills  (oral contraceptive pills or OCP’s) can help with acne, but only the ones that contain special hormones that counter the natural male hormones (androgens) . These chemicals are called antiandrogens. The best antiandrogen is Cyproterone acetate (co-cyprindiol or Diane™-35, Estelle™ 35 and Ginet-84™). Other antiandrogens like drospirenone (Yasmin™, Yaz™) or dienogest (Valette™) are also quite effective.

However do remember that OCP’s can take 3-6 months to start working and it takes 9 months to see their optimal effects. patience is the key. I usually prescribe other anti-acne drugs like topical retinoids/ benzoyl peroxide +- antibiotics, while the OCP’s start their job.

The side effects of these drugs are similar to that of other OCP’s. However you will need to speak to your doctor to assess risk if you have any family or personal history of breast cancer,  blood clots in your legs, migraine, high blood pressure, liver disease, or if you are obese and or smoke.