In Reply to: Cystic acne and BC pills and progesterone HELP! posted by Anita on December 17, 2000 at 03:25:21:

Hi Anita,

The #1 best BC pill for fighting acne is Ortho-Tricycline. But just to let you know, any low-dose BC pill will help you because it controls hormone surges that very often are the cause of female adult acne. The problem with Ortho-Tricyline is some insurance companies don't pay for it (like mine) and it costs about $31/month. Instead, I use Ortho-Novum 1/35 which is covered by my health insurance.

Also, My dermatologist prescribed Minocycline pills (1-2 per day) and Clindamycin topical liquid (applied 1-2 per day). The combination of these three have made my once severe acne virtually disappear. If you feel that your acne is hormone related (break-outs around your menstruation cycle) then BC pills are a probable solution. Your Primary Care Physician or your gynecologist can prescribe them for you. If you haven't already done so, you must speak to a dermatologist and discuss your options. What has worked for me may not work for you.

Also to remember not to overwash... I use only Neutragena cleansers and Oil of Olay facial lotions. Beware of facial products with oils and fragrances.
Stay out of the sun... makes acne worse in the long run. Drink lots of water... hydration dilutes the toxins that clog pours. Also, you are what you eat... nutritious foods have less toxins. Avoid foods that would dehydrate you (caffeine, alcohol, salt, etc.); these interfere with hydration and water is skin's best friend.

Here are some websites for more information:
www.m2w3.com/acne/facts_acne.html
www.derm-infonet.com/acnenet/index.html
Be informed before you talk to you doctors so you can make decisions together.

Good Luck Anita !!

• Re: Cystic acne and BC pills and progesterone HELP! Nancy H 17:07:21 12/22/00 (0)
• Re: Cystic acne and BC pills and progesterone HELP! Anita 17:00:48 12/22/00 (0)