Comparing Epiduo Forte vs Yaz

For Acne: Epiduo Forte is probably one of the most effective topicals I've used to date (suffered from hormonal cystic acne for 8 years now) and definitely more effective than Epiduo. I've never written a review for an acne medication before so trust me when I say I rely on Epiduo Forte as an effective spot treatment. I find this topical to really help in thwarting those angry cystic pimples and stop em in their tracks. If I get them early and apply the Forte they usually go away or just turn into a regular/smaller pimple with a head. The only thing I hate about it is that it makes the area where you apply the epiduo forte EXTREMELY dried out and flaky, which sucks for a foundation-wearer like myself. The flaking doesn't fully subside til about a week so if you want your makeup to look smooth try not to apply the night before or just apply a very thin layer.

For Acne: My daughter's dermatologist prescribed this after she went off of accutane and started getting breakouts again. Accutane cleared her skin up amazingly, but we didn't want to put her back on it if it wasn't necessary. Epiduo Forte really does work. She has been using it for 10 months and her skin looks as clear as it did after 6+ months of accutane. She does still get breakouts, but nothing like before. And she has tried many prescription topical treatments and pills over the years, and none of those worked. She has also managed to make one bottle last 10 months, so she's probably not using enough, but she does say it is very drying. It's very expensive, so be sure and ask your doctor if they know of any rebate programs for it. We get it for $75 after insurance discount and rebate.

For Birth Control: I have been taking Yaz for about a year now. My skin has cleared and my periods often skip for months at a time and when they do come they are just spotting (I wanted to take Yaz to regulate my period). Over the past 6 months near the end of my packet has been something I dread, I become very emotional and depressed. I often have a hard time getting out of bed, feeling unmotivated, and have many self-deprecating thoughts. It honestly scares me. When I am not nearing the end of my pack I am myself, bubbly and energetic, and constantly moving. I will be looking for a replacement and want anyone thinking about taking Yaz to be aware of any mood changes. While there are some positive replies here, there are many negative ones and make sure you are using something that is truly benefitting you more than hurting you. Wishing everyone the best!

For Birth Control: I've been on Yaz for four months and am about to get off of it. It hasn't made a difference in my acne (which was slight) and I've noticed some weight gain. I work really hard to maintain my weight with regular workouts and eating well. I hadn't changed anything in my lifestyle yet have been gaining weight, so I can definitively attribute my weight gain to this pill! And no, it is not water weight; I literally do not fit into my slacks for work. I've also had a lot of breast tenderness along with my breast size increasing - which I do not like at all. But I will say that this pill drastically decreased my period in length and bleeding. This pill has not been terrible for me. If it weren't for the weight gain, I would stay on it.