Q. Does the birth-control pill cure acne? My 13-year-old daughter is getting a lot of pimples. Should she just start taking the pill, or should she see doctor for a prescription? What is the minimum age? Can the pill relieve boys' acne too? - Worried Mum
A. Dear Worried Mum,
Acne is a complex condition. Genetics, race, hormone, diet, lifestyle and environment are all implicated in its development.
Teenage acne results when overdriven hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, which obstructs the pores.
There are several treatment options, depending on severity and type. The birth-control pill is one, and it can improve acne dramatically by blocking the effect of the male hormone.
But it's more commonly prescribed in adult acne, in which hormonal imbalance plays an important role.
In general, the minimum age for taking the pill is when menstruation begins, but it's not recommended for girls unless they have other medical indications.
For boys, the pill is absolutely not an option, since it can cause many side effects, including enlarged breasts.
First-line treatments for teen acne are good skincare, topical medications and lifestyle modification.
Start by washing the face with a mild cleanser, but not too often or too vigorously, since it can worsen the condition.
Try to avoid a diet rich in sugar and fatty acids, which can increase sebum production.
And the simplest treatment is to make sure your daughter gets a good night's sleep - at least eight hours.
If the acne is unresponsive or severe, oral medications and special treatments can be used.
Don't let acne go untreated for too long. If it does not respond to over-the-counter medications, I would suggest you to make an appointment with a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.
