Birth control pills have changed a great deal since their introduction in the 1960's. Today, the levels of hormones in pills such as OrthoTriCyclen Oral Contraceptiveprovide a lower dose of hormones compared with older formulations, while retaining the same degree of effectiveness (greater than 99% when taken correctly).

OrthoTriCyclen Oral Contraceptive is the first birth control pill that has been clinically proven to help reduce moderate acne and maintain clearer skin in women 15 or older, with no known medical reasons not to take oral contraceptives, who menstruate, want contraception and are not responsive to topical anti-acne medications.

Studies show that nearly 9 out of 10 women who took OrthoTriCyclen Oral Contraceptive saw improvements in their skin.

Acne generally appears after puberty when the body begins to produce the male hormone androgen in high levels. Androgen causes the sebaceous glands, located at the base of the skin's pores, to produce an overabundance of an oily substance called sebum, which clogs the pores and results in acne blemishes.

Most acne subsides with age as androgen production levels off. But some adults continue to have acne or first develop it in their 20's and 30's.

Hormone changes or imbalances may cause acne symptoms. It may be advisable to discuss concerns about acne symptoms with a gynecologist when considering birth control options, and to talk about birth control when discussing acne with a dermatologist. About one in four adults with acne consult a physician about the condition, according to a national survey.

Acne is the most common skin disorder in the United States, affecting more than 17 million adults.

According to a national consumer attitude survey, many people think acne is caused by diet, oily hair or failing to wash the face enough. In fact, hormonal imbalances and changes, stress and heredity are the major contributors to acne.

Acne is defined as whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and sometimes boil-like lesions or cysts that appear mostly on the face and sometimes on the neck, shoulders and back.

It lowers the levels of serum free-testosterone, the hormone that contributes to acne breakouts. Therefore, it may help your skin look its best without compromising its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.

Furthermore, pills like OrthoTriCyclen Oral Contraceptive may also provide you with other benefits you might not have realized.