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Should I Switch From Althea Pills To Diane Due To Severe Acne And Side Effects?
I was diagnosed with PCOS this month and have been taking Althea pills since. I am almost done with one pack of althea pills. I’ve been noticing a lot of side effects like nausea, headache, dizziness, tender breasts, and I’m also more sensitive than usual. Aside from those side effects, the one thing that really negatively affects me is the amount of acne that I have now because of the althea pills. My acne is all over my cheeks, chin, and even my forehead. My doctor said that this will help clear my acne in the long run but I don’t know if I’m just purging or is althea not for me? Should I ask my doctor to switch to another brand like Diane? My doctor prescribed me with 3 packs of althea pills but I don’t know if I can wait that longer before switching or waiting for great results. I’ve become so self conscious with my acne because of this.
Mon, 3 Jun 2024
Hello,
Contraceptive pills bring about fluctuations in one's hormones. Fluctuation in the release of the male hormone lead to a breakout of acne due to oily skin and androgenic properties. Yet, the progestogen-only pill or contraceptive implant sometimes could aggravate the acne to make it worse. Yes, you should consult your gynecologist and change to a contraceptive pill that best suits you.
Wash your face 4-5 times a day with plain, clean water to remove oil that blocks the pores. Take steam on your face for 5-10 minutes, so that the pores open up. Do this at least 2 -3 times a week. After steaming dap, it with ice to close the pores. Oil will reduce and you will not get acne after a few days.
You can also take doxycycline -100 mg, twice daily for five days. It will help to reduce acne. Avoid applying makeup, do not wear nickel jewelry. Do not share your toiletries with anyone. Take bath regularly, prefer to take vegetarian diet over non- veg food. Do not touch your face with dirty hands.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
Contraceptive pills bring about fluctuations in one's hormones. Fluctuation in the release of the male hormone lead to a breakout of acne due to oily skin and androgenic properties. Yet, the progestogen-only pill or contraceptive implant sometimes could aggravate the acne to make it worse. Yes, you should consult your gynecologist and change to a contraceptive pill that best suits you.
Wash your face 4-5 times a day with plain, clean water to remove oil that blocks the pores. Take steam on your face for 5-10 minutes, so that the pores open up. Do this at least 2 -3 times a week. After steaming dap, it with ice to close the pores. Oil will reduce and you will not get acne after a few days.
You can also take doxycycline -100 mg, twice daily for five days. It will help to reduce acne. Avoid applying makeup, do not wear nickel jewelry. Do not share your toiletries with anyone. Take bath regularly, prefer to take vegetarian diet over non- veg food. Do not touch your face with dirty hands.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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