Pill and acne: choosing the right treatment

The contraceptive pill prescribed to prevent unwanted pregnancy can have consequences on the skin and may either improve or worsen acne, depending on the type of pill chosen.

HVAD ER HUD MED TENDENS TIL AKNE?

How does the pill affect the skin?

These are two main types of hormonal contraception:

Combined oestrogen-progesten pills, which contain both an oestrogen and a progesten.
Progesten-only pills, which contain only a progestogen.

Oestrogens are anti-androgens and reduce androgens, the male hormones involved in excess sebum production, the main factor in acne. When sebum accumulates, it clogs the skin’s pores, leading to pimples.

Progestogens have varying effects on the skin. Some are androgenic and can worsen acne, while others are non-androgenic and should be preferred in case of acne. They reduce sebum production, help limit breakouts and prevent blemishes on the face and body.

Side effect to be aware of

The pill is a hormonal treatment available on prescription and must be carefully assessed before use. There are contraindications and potential side effects. Not all women can use combined pills. They increase the risk of venous thrombosis (phlebitis, pulmonary embolism), and arterial thrombosis (stroke, myocardial infarction) compared to non-users.

The most effective pills against blemishes

The most recommended pills for acne are those that combine oestrogens and progestogens with anti-androgenic properties. Simply put, the molecules in these pills block the action of androgens, which reduces sebum production and the appearance of pimples. On the other hand, progestogen-only pills, which only contain progesterone, can worsen acne, and are not recommended in such cases.

To know which pill is best suited for your contraceptive needs and hormonal profile, consult a healthcare professional who can guide you in making the right choice.

Choosing the right pill for your needs

The choice of pill is not to be taken lightly. There are several factors to consider before making it:

Your personal and family medical history.
Whether you smoke or not. Using combined oestrogen-progestogen pills is not recommended for chronic smokers, and smoking itself is not ideal for your skin.
Your lifestyle and personal preferences: the pill is not the only available contraceptive method.

A medical consultation with a gynaecologist or doctor is essential to determine the best option and tailor your hormonal treatment accordingly.

What measures should be combined with the pill to treat acne?

Topical treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoid creams. They will help you limit the effects of acne flare-ups.
Oral treatments for the most severe cases. As with any treatment, consult a dermatologist or a doctor before starting it.
Zinc gluconate may be prescribed for very mild to moderate inflammatory acne in case of contraindication or poor tolerance of other oral treatments.

Treatments like Avène’s Cleanance Comedomed Anti-Blemish Concentrate offer you an effective alternative with fast results against acne. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating formula, it targets pimples and visibly reduces skin blemishes.

Skin cares associated with pill against acne

Adopt an appropriate skincare routine

A good skincare routine can maximise the pill's benefits on your skin. To take care of your skin daily, wash your face morning and evening with a gentle, soap-free cleanser that respects your skin’s PH. Then, apply a non-comedogenic moisturiser designed for acne-prone skin. You can also use products containing soothing active ingredients such as thermal spring water, or aloe vera. Alcohol-based or antiseptic products are not recommended, as they are ineffective and can cause irritation and/or sensitivity.

Avène’s Cleanance range is particularly recommended, to soothe and protect weakened skin, as it is designed for acne-prone skin. For example, the Cleanance Cleansing Gel purifies the skin while eliminating excess sebum.

Improve your lifestyle and diet

Your skin reflects what you eat. By paying attention to your diet, you can significantly reduce acne breakouts. A balanced diet, rich in antioxidants (meaning fresh fruits and vegetables, omega-3s, and fast sugars) can help improve your skin’s condition. On the other hand, foods rich in fast sugars may contribute to the appearance of blemishes (some observations suggest it, but there are not yet any robust enough scientific studies to confirm it). So try to reduce their consumption in your diet.

At the same time, reducing stress, sleeping well, and engaging in regular physical activity are also key factors that promote healthy, radiant skin. Anti-acne cosmetic products are a good solution to reduce acne problems. But for best results, they should be used in addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Choose products suitable for weakened skin

When taking the pill, choose dermatological products suited to your skin’s needs. In addition, apply sun protection daily to prevent the appearance of spots and protect your skin.

Treatments such as Avène’s Cleanance Hydra cream are ideal to hydrate and soothe. They provide targeted hydration for skin that is often dried out by acne treatments.

The contraceptive pill can be an effective ally against acne, but its effectiveness depends on choosing the right formulation, and ensuring it suits your individual needs. By combining rigorous medical monitoring, a suitable skincare routine, and a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to minimise blemishes daily.

For further information, feel free to consult our resources on the links between hormones and acne, as well as the different types of acne.