Starting the pill can be a complicated period. Not only does the body have to adjust to a completely new level of hormones in the body, you also have to suffer through the possible side effects that can come with the contraceptive. One of these could be that the skin decides to mess with you. These 8 tips can help.
For those who get extra dry skin during birth control pills:
Continue with your normal skin care routine
Just because you’ve started birth control pills (which in many cases can also give you better skin) doesn’t mean you can stop giving your skin what it used to get. As long as you are still struggling with acne or pimples, the safest bet is to continue with the anti-pimple products you used to have!
Moisture Moisture Moisture!
Moisturizing your skin is even more important when you’re on the pill than when you’re not (especially if you get dry skin). Your skin produces less natural oil when you take birth control pills and you therefore need to help with a good moisturizing cream.
Consider medication
If you can’t get over your skin and it’s completely out of whack, it may be appropriate to see a dermatologist who can prescribe stronger products – or medicine for you. This does not have to mean that you should go on the medication forever, sometimes a month or so is enough for the acne to subside as the body adapts to the hormones.
For those who get extra oily skin during birth control pills:
Use a mild cleanser
Buy a cleanser that is gentle and made to control oily skin (ask at the pharmacy or store). Make sure to use this frequently – preferably twice a day.
Skip the moisturizing
Since you’re trying to get rid of oil and oily skin, it’s okay to skip moisturizing for a period to see if it can get your skin in better shape. During this period, you can use a light, oil-free or oil-absorbing sunscreen instead.
Do not rinse off cleansers and creams with your hands
When you have sensitive oily skin, the worst thing you can do is to use your hands directly on the skin when taking care of your face. Sensitive oily skin is an expert at bringing in bacteria and making the whole thing even worse. Instead, use wet towels, cotton pads or cleaning sponges as much as possible.
Consider medication
If you can’t get over your skin and it’s completely out of whack, it may be appropriate to see a dermatologist who can prescribe stronger products – or medicine for you. This does not have to mean that you should go on the medication forever, sometimes a month or so is enough for the acne to subside as the body adapts to the hormones.
There are of course many more things to take into account and of course it all depends on your skin type and what suits you best. But these tips can be a good start!
ATTENTION! If you have or get severe acne in connection with birth control pills, medical help is the primary thing!
Source: Teen Vogue
