This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:

The review will examine whether any COC is more effective than other COCs, oral or topical anti‐acne medications or placebo in the treatment of facial acne in women. We will evaluate the following hypotheses:
1) COC treatment for facial acne in females is more effective than no treatment or placebo in reducing the severity of facial acne.
2) COCs do not differ in their efficacy and are not more efficacious than other oral or topical anti‐acne medications in reducing the severity of facial acne.
3) COCs do not differ in discontinuation due to side effects.