Use of Oral Contraceptives in the Management of Acne
November 2011
in “
DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals)
”
New to Cyproterone? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → Studysummary This review discusses the role of androgens and estrogens in acne pathogenesis and the potential use of oral contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol and progestins to manage acne, but reports no new results.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document discussed the use of oral contraceptives in managing acne, highlighting that acne pathogenesis is linked to increased sebum production stimulated by androgens. Oral contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol reduce androgen levels by increasing sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) production, thus decreasing sebum production. The progestin component in these contraceptives can either bind to androgenic receptors or exert antiandrogenic effects, enhancing the hypoandrogenic effect. The study suggested that oral contraceptives with low doses of ethinyl estradiol and progestins like cyproterone acetate, drospirenone, or chlormadinone acetate could effectively manage acne due to their antiandrogenic properties.
