What is Post-Pill Acne?
Post-pill acne is a frequent concern I encounter in my practice. Unfortunately, it often prompts many women to revert back to contraceptive pills. However, this is the last thing we want, as it merely postpones the problem, leaving it to be addressed at a later stage.
Post-pill acne manifests after discontinuation of the oral contraceptive pill (OCP). It arises due to changes in hormones that frequently occur with OCP use, which in particular influence sebum production.
Sebum, the skin's protective oil composed of cholesterol and lipids, acts as a barrier against moisture loss and bacteria. Hormones significantly regulate sebum production, a balance that is disrupted by the OCP, leading to a reduction in natural sebum production. In response, the body compensates by upregulating sebum production to prevent skin dryness.
Upon cessation of the OCP and the resumption of hormone production by the ovaries, returning to hormonal balance takes time. During this time, the mix of heightened sebum, hormonal imbalance, and inflammation creates an environment conducive to acne formation.
Adding more fuel to the fire, the OCP significantly depletes skin loving nutrients that are required for wound healing, immune function and that act as antioxidants.
For some women, post-pill acne is short term and will usually normalise after 6 months as natural hormones start to balance. However, if you had acne before going on the pill, or went on the pill for acne.. this could take much longer. If you think about it this way, if the OCP successfully treated your acne, it suggests that an underlying hormonal imbalance may have been a contributing factor to the acne.
However, it's important to note that the OCP doesn't address hormonal imbalances; instead, it suppresses natural cycles and hormone production in favor of synthetic hormones, offering a temporary solution. Therefore, discontinuing its use often means returning to the initial hormonal state. For individuals who experienced acne before starting the pill, post-pill acne can be worse. Please don’t shoot the messenger.
However, there are strategies to support a smoother transition. Ideally, I work with women before they cease the OCP to mitigate the impact. However, this is not always possible, and if you've already stopped the pill, support is still available!
My treatment approach is always individualised and involves uncovering the root cause of the imbalance, but with post-pill acne it often includes:
Correcting nutrient deficiencies that commonly occur with the pill such as Vitamin B9 (folate), B12, B6, Vitamin C + E, Selenium, Magnesium and Zinc.
Supporting elimination channels to clear excess hormones.
Encouraging lymphatic flow.
Supporting the nervous system is often indicated due to the psychological and stressful impacts of acne, which may also involve working with a psychologist or therapist.
Balancing out those anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory pathways.
Supporting skin barrier, both internally with herbs and nutrients and externally with a skin therapist.
Ensuring your diet is nutrient dense and is jam packed full of everything needed for general health and skin health.
Hydration!
Remember, you are not defined by your skin.
As a Hormone Health Naturopath, I am often seeing patients with skin concerns. With the right treatment approach and a combination of internal and external therapies, I see amazing results. Get in touch if you are thinking about coming off the pill and need some support.. you don’t need to go it alone! Follow this link to book an appointment with me.
