Birth control patch same as the pill...?

I am currently taking ortho-tricyclen for my skin (acne), since it seems to be the only that that has worked for me (I've tried all the creams, scrubs, etc.) - however, I've seen the patch advertised on TV that you only have to apply once each month. I was under the impression that it's the hormones in birth control that help with acne, does this mean the patch would work just as well?

No. Patches are made specificaly for their purpose. It has been my experience that the pill and patch both produce more acne in women and weight gain as well due to the imbalance of hormones created. The birth control pill is NOT good for you.

Further problems can develope such as mood swings, depression, anxiety and liver disorders and toxicity are also some other side effects of these hormone based products.

Just in case you have not tried any dietary supplementation here are a few well known ones for acne as well as some back ground info on acne. You sound like you have been through the wringer with cures and I am guessing you have tried plenty so this is really just in case.

ACNE

Acne is usually considered an adolescent affliction affecting up to 80 percent of teenagers. Although acne occurs most commonly in adolescent males, it can affect people of any age.

Symptoms
Acne vulgaris, the most common form of acne, consists of whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and deep cysts that appear mainly on the face and to a lesser extent on the chest, shoulders and back.

Acne is often worse during winter, improving during summer.

Causes
Acne commences when the sebaceous ducts in the skin become blocked by skin overgrowth to form a whitehead, or by plugs of sebum which darken on exposure to air forming a blackhead.

When the sebum trapped in the whitehead or blackhead is forced into the deeper skin layers, an inflammatory reaction causes a red lump called a papule. If infection follows, pus collects and the classic pimple (pustule) is seen. When the inflammatory condition is severe, large, painful cysts may form.

Acne is associated with hormonal imbalance, and will typically develop during puberty when hormonal activity increases the size and activity of the sebaceous glands. Some women also experience acne as a component of pre-menstrual syndrome.

The naturopathic view is that acne is aggravated by ineffective elimination from the body, which may be related to a build up of toxins in the system due to an inability of the liver to effectively break down circulatory toxins. It can also be initiated by food sensitivities, poor diet and stress.

Natural Therapies

Zinc is an essential mineral used for wound healing and the normal oil gland function of the skin. It is also involved in the maintenance of vitamin A levels, transport and usage; for protein synthesis, (particularly collagen synthesis); and to help maintain hormonal balance.

Beta-carotene is transformed into vitamin A in the body. These two nutrients act as skin antioxidants, and may be of assistance in the treatment of acne, other skin conditions, and the healing of wounds.

Sulphur is traditionally indicated as a liver tonic to support the body's detoxification processes, and for a variety of skin conditions including acne which are associated with sluggish liver function

Echinacea has been extensively investigated and has been found to have a variety of actions on the immune system, including antibacterial and antiviral activity.

Calendula has traditionally been used for the treatment of skin infection and to assist wound healing.

Vitex Agnus-Castus is indicated for acne problems which are worse pre-menstrually.

Prevention
There are conflicting theories about direct dietary influences on acne.

The best approach is to adopt a healthy well balanced diet high in fibre, filtered water and fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid refined or processed foods, sugars and high-fat foods.

Regular exercise is great for your skin, as it improves your circulation and aids in the removal of toxins. Try brisk walking, jogging swimming or any active sport 3 - 4 times per week.

Hope this helps.

Craig - Naturopath. Source(s): http://www.craighitchenstherapies.com...