So, I stopped taking the pill. I use Natural Cycles now. I really just want to be as natural as possible with anything regarding my health. If I can control it and it will not harm me, I am all for it. Only downside is my skin changed, fast, and I did not know how to care for it anymore - until now.
What happened to my skin when I quit the pill?
Famine, drought, locusts. Ok but that's what it felt like! But really I started breaking out more (like back in high school), got tons of dark spots, uneven skin tone, dullness and lost clarity on my skin type. I know once you stop taking the pill your skin will take a while to adjust to the new normal but its been over 6 months - I didn't know it would last that long. So I did some research.
How did I get my skin back on track?
Well after catering my research to "hormonal skincare" and "skincare after quitting the pill" specifically, I started finding more information that worked. One article in particular really helped me out. In this Glamour Magazine article, she talks about the products she used to get her skin back on track. I used a product she mentioned but I also incorporated other products and practices into my skincare routine and wow, did it make a difference. It may seem like a lot but it is super simple and the results are mind blowing!
My Hormonal Skincare Routine + Products
Any basic skincare routine consists of cleansing, exfoliating, toning, serums and moisturizing. Hormonal skin just needs an extra kick so here is what I have been doing every day for the past 3 weeks. And what a dramatic difference I've seen.
Cleansing (morning + night):
I use Youth To The People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser. It is sort of like a gel cleanser and it is packed full of cold-pressed antioxidants to detox your skin. I had started using this a month ago when I was trying any and every thing to fix my skin and happened to actually stumble across a great find. I use this every morning and night to deep clean my skin. Make sure to use circular motions and massage in for at least a minute.
Exfoliating (night):
I normally exfoliate every night with First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Polish because it is gentle enough to use daily BUT they have been sold out everywhere for a bit so I found a new one to use in the meantime - Olehenriksen Pore-Balance Facial Sauna Scrub. Don't be alarmed when it warms up as you massage it in. It really is like a sauna for your face. I use this 3 times a week but feel free to use any exfoliator of your choice. I am patiently waiting for First Aid Beauty to be back in stock.
Steaming (night):
What a game changer. I used to frequent infrared saunas weekly before this pandemic so it got me thinking, why don't I just steam my face? Dr. Dennis Gross has one (more about this genius later) but it's way overpriced. So I went to Amazon and found this great dupe. I steam for 10 minutes every night after I cleanse and exfoliate. This bad boy acts as a facial steamer, towel warmer and humidifier.
Toning (morning + night):
Toner always shows you what you missed during the cleansing portion of your routine. I use a mild toner in the morning, Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner, gentle enough to use daily. But the real game changer is my night time toner, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel. THIS. This really helped with my dark spots, dullness and overall texture of my skin. I believe I will continue to use these toner wipes even when my skin is back on track. A little bit on the pricier side ($88) but absolutely worth it.
Serums (morning + night):
You must incorporate serums into your skincare routine! They play such an essential part in maintaining the balance and texture of your skin. Glossier has quality and affordable serums that I have used for years. I use the Super Glow vitamin C serum in the morning and the Super Pure niacinamide serum at night. Put about 5 drops in your hands, rub together and then gently pat into your skin.
Moisturizing (morning + night):
I found this new gem of a moisturizer recently and I already know I will continue to use it for a while. Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream is a great daily moisturizer that locks the moisture in without being greasy. Tip: go for the products made by doctors - they really know what they are doing. Sometimes, I will switch it out at night for Flora + Bast Age Adapting CBD serum. It smells a little strong but it is perfect for after using the daily peel toning wipes. Don't let the fact that it is an oil scare you away - it seeps in perfectly with no oily residue. Put 6-8 drops in your hands, rub together to warm up and then gently pat into your skin.
So there you have it. This really works! I have seen a drastic improvement in my skin and for the first time since I quit the pill, I have hope that my skin will find it's new natural balance. I also continue to drink tons of water and started swapping out more carbs for leafy green veggies and fresh fruit. What goes in your body is just as important as what you put on it. If you are struggling with hormonal skin or quit the pill as well, try out this routine and watch your skin heal.
*I make a small commission from affiliate links.
