Effects of Two Estroprogestins Containing Ethinylestradiol 30 μg and Drospirenone 3 mg and Ethinylestradiol 30 μg and Chlormadinone 2 mg on Skin and Hormonal Hyperandrogenic Manifestations

In a study from 2008, 55 women with hyperandrogenism symptoms such as seborrhea, acne, and increased hair growth were treated with two different estroprogestins (EPs) to assess their effects on hormonal levels and skin conditions. Thirty women received ethinyl-estradiol (EE) 30 μg combined with drospirenone (DRSP) 3 mg, while 25 women were given EE 30 μg with chlormadinone acetate (CMA) 2 mg. Over 6 months, both treatments significantly reduced circulating androgen levels (androstenedione, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) and the free androgen index (FAI), while increasing sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels. Additionally, both treatments improved skin conditions, but the EP containing EE and DRSP was more effective than EE and CMA in improving skin changes such as seborrhea, acne, increased hair, hydration, homogeneity, and overall skin quality. Hormonal changes, particularly the FAI, were more pronounced with the EE/DRSP combination. These findings suggest that the choice of EP can be important for patient compliance and quality of life in women with hyperandrogenism.