First time using birth control and horribly acne breakout at end of month 2?

Experience

Hi,

I just started week 9 of Yaz BC. I went on it because I have lean PCOS and struggle with cystic acne, which was managed for years with adapelene and on and off antibiotics. This year I went through a lot of stress and nothing calmed my skin down so I started Yaz. It honestly flared my skin up around the middle of month 1 and I noticed more pustules, clogged pores and even inflamed acne compared to before going on it.. but I stuck it out. I just finished the 4 placebo pills in the second pack. I’ve had the worst cystic spots on my chin for about a week straight and they’re still present and healing. I am only at week 9, I feel like my skin inflames so easily and the clogged pores I’ve gotten weeks ago are still on my midface (I never even used to struggle with blackheads this much??). This is my first time using a BC, and everyone advises that it is normal for your skin to flare and to wait until month 3/4. I am willing to give it a couple more weeks to see if it improves with time but feel somewhat discouraged (I’ve been on 3 months of antibiotics before starting Yaz, feels like I’m constantly waiting for my skin to calm down?). I am healthy, very clean diet, active and otherwise haven’t changed anything about my skincare. Do any of you have advice? I am scared to switch BC because I thought this one is supposed to be the best for my condition as well. I’ve seen people get clear skin 1 month after starting BC, so it is honestly mentally disturbing to still be struggling at week 8/9. FYI: I am 22.

Any comment is appreciated!!

Posted Aug 3, 2026, 2:00 PM UTC

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