More and more women are opting for hormone-free contraception. The list of side effects associated with hormonal contraception is long. The pill, in particular, is repeatedly criticized for negatively impacting body image and well-being or triggering depressive moods. At the same time, many are hesitant to stop taking the pill because of repeated reports of side effects such as increased period pain, hair loss, acne, and skin blemishes. Learn how you can best support your skin during this time.

What causes skin blemishes after stopping the pill?

As a hormonal contraceptive, the pill works by adding the hormones estrogen and progestin and inhibiting testosterone. After stopping the pill, the body must take over hormone regulation on its own again. This can lead to an excess of testosterone. Testosterone is responsible, among other things, for the skin's sebum production. An excess of this hormone can therefore lead to an overproduction of sebum, clogged pores, inflammation, and ultimately skin blemishes and acne. But other hormonal fluctuations also play a role. It can take several months for hormonal balance to be restored after stopping the pill. During this transitional period, symptoms of hormonal adjustment can vary and develop. In this article, we share our tips on how you can best support your skin after stopping the pill and thus stay in control of your health and your skin during this phase.

First, reduce your consumption of foods and beverages that can worsen skin blemishes (alcohol, cigarettes, convenience foods and junk food, foods high in sugar and fat) and ensure you eat a balanced, fiber-rich diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables.

Second, regularly clean the objects your face comes into contact with daily. We recommend changing your pillowcase once a week and cleaning your phone screen daily. Also, try to touch your face as little as possible and avoid squeezing blemishes. This will reduce the amount of bacteria that reach your skin, preventing micro-injuries and further inflammation.

Third, cleanse your face morning and night with a gentle cleanser. We recommend our cleansing gel with natural ingredients and mild surfactants. It cleanses your skin without over-drying it.

Fourth, use a BHA peel with azelaic acid once or twice a week to regulate sebum production. These active ingredients have an anti-inflammatory effect and reduce redness, irritation, and acne scars. This actively prevents the development of pimples and blemishes.

Fifth: Less is more. Use a gentle, moisturizing skincare routine with natural active ingredients. We recommend our custom serum, which strengthens your skin barrier and provides moisture without weighing your skin down. Combine it with willow bark extract, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. Willow bark extract regulates sebum production and combats skin imperfections. Niacinamide refines large pores, treats blackheads, and reduces acne scars, while hyaluronic acid locks in moisture in your skin.

Whether skin blemishes appear after stopping the pill and how long they last varies from woman to woman. Therefore, pay attention to your individual skin needs and seek advice from a dermatologist if you experience long-lasting symptoms.