What can I do if I'm on the pill and breaking out with acne?

I keep breaking out with acne.

Oct 14, 2015 Updated: Aug 28, 2025

Most pills actually help with acne, so you could talk to a health care provider to see about switching to another kind of pill or a different birth control method altogether.

Still not working?

If you try another type of pill and it doesn’t help, you could also switch to another hormonal method, such as the ring, shot, the implant, or an IUD to see if one of those will help with your acne. Or, you could switch to a non-hormonal method like a copper IUD, condoms, or internal condoms.

Want to learn more?

Select one of the related topics to find more.

side effects minipill (progestin-only birth control pill) combination birth control pill birth control birth control pill
Bedsider
Bedsider and Birth control

You deserve access to birth control that fits your body, your life and your plans. Since 2011, Bedsider has been a trusted source of medically reviewed birth control information—covering every method available in the U.S. with guides, real user reviews, side-by-side comparisons, and a clinic search to help you find care near you or online.

Related methods

Dive in and learn all the details about these related birth control methods.

birth control
Birth control pill
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use, but you have to remember to take it every day.
birth control
Birth control ring
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use and works like the pill, but you don't have to worry about it every day.
birth control
Condom
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and don't require a prescription, but they do require work.
birth control
Internal condom (FC2)
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and great for those with latex allergies.
birth control
IUD
Super effective, lasts for years, low-maintenance, and private (though some partners can feel the strings). You can choose hormonal or non-hormonal.
birth control
Implant (Nexplanon)
Super effective, lasts for years, low-maintenance, and private.
birth control
Birth control shot
Very effective if you use it correctly. Lasts for months, is private, and is a good hormonal option for those who can't take estrogen.