Acne after stopping the pill

Life without the pill can be a joy, but those unexpected acne breakouts? Not so nice. Fear not, we are by your side to help you understand why this happens and how you can tackle these skin problems.

Why acne returns after stopping the pill.

While the pill regulates your hormones and keeps acne at bay, you often get those pimples back once you stop. But why? Your hormones slowly return to their natural levels, which can lead to oily skin and acne. This is what we call 'acne after stopping contraception'. Life without contraceptive pills can be a joy, but those unexpected acne outbreaks? Not so nice. Fear not, we are by your side to help you understand why this happens and how you can tackle these skin problems.

The Post-Contraceptive Syndrome (PAS)

Some women experience symptoms such as acne, migraines, and irregular periods within the first 4-6 months after stopping hormonal birth control. Traditional medicine may not recognize PAS, but thousands of women experience these symptoms. Experts suggest that hormonal birth control disrupts the natural hormonal balance, and stopping birth control can lead to hormonal imbalance, which causes PAS.

What happens to my skin if I stop?

Changes in hormone levels play a key role in acne after stopping birth control. While using birth control, hormones continue to flow, which keeps acne at bay. But once you stop, your hormones return to their original levels, leading to acne. Some reasons why acne may occur after stopping contraception:

• Hormonal Imbalance: Hormones become confused, which stimulates sebum production and causes acne.
• Increased Oxidative Stress: This can promote inflammation and pave the way for acne-causing bacteria.
• Chronic Inflammation: Inflammation is a big player in acne, and hormonal changes can make it worse.
• Decreased Insulin Sensitivity: This can cause an imbalance in cholesterol and fats in the bloodstream, which promotes acne.

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Will I get acne after stopping the pill?

Several factors play a role in the risk of acne after stopping contraception, including:

• Hormonal Levels for Birth Control: Your natural hormone levels for birth control can affect your acne risk.
• Genetics: Your genetic makeup determines how your body responds to hormonal changes.
• Type of Birth Control: The type of birth control you used affects your risk of acne after quitting. The dose of estrogen and the type of progestin play a role.
• Lifestyle choices: Lifestyle factors such as smoking can influence the risk of acne.

How can I prevent acne after stopping the pill?

1. Limit Sugar Intake: Sugary foods like candy, soda and processed snacks can increase insulin production, which can worsen acne. Choose foods with a low glycemic index to keep blood sugar levels stable.
2. Avoid Dairy Products: Dairy products contain hormones that can increase sebum production and promote inflammation. Consider dairy alternatives such as almond or oat milk. Preferably plant-based alternative, no soya.
3. Use Zinc and Antioxidant Supplements: Zinc can reduce inflammation and heal the skin. Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E help fight inflammation and protect the skin from damage.
4. Skin care routine: A good skin care routine is essential. Cleanse your face, use an exfoliating serum, apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer and protect your skin daily with sunscreen.

Getting acne after birth control is a common problem, but there are solutions to tackle it and regain your self-confidence. Remember that improvements come gradually, so stay positive. Give your body time to return to its natural hormone balance, which can take weeks to months.


Author: Sofie Dewitte