Period · 7 min read
Period and impure skin - what helps against pimples?
What helps against pimples before/during your period?
We've all been there: shortly before or after their period starts, many menstruating people struggle with blemished skin. From blackheads to annoying pimples – even if you're well past puberty, your mid-thirties can suddenly feel like being a teenager again.
The reason for this, as for so many things, is hormones. Fluctuating hormone levels affect the sebaceous glands, moisture levels and the skin's overall circulation.
By the way: Pimples mainly appear where there are lots of sebaceous glands, which clog the pores through excessive sebum production. Other influences also play their part, such as dirt particles in the air, creams, make-up, sweat or dead skin cells. Alongside hormone levels, an unbalanced diet and stress also have a major impact on your skin and on whether it falls out of balance.
If you are also struggling with period pain or bloating alongside blemished skin, read on here: "Bloating before your period – what you can do about it", "What helps against period pain?"
12 tips against pimples
We have put together our 12 best tips and home remedies against pimples and blemished skin:
Don't touch it!
This won't get rid of pimples directly, but at least it won't make them worse. Even if it's hard, keep your hands off. The likelihood of pimples becoming inflamed and even leaving scars behind is very high.
Apple cider vinegar against pimples
Apple cider vinegar is an absolute all-rounder around the house. But it also scores plenty of points in the beauty department. Did you know you can make your own facial toner from apple cider vinegar? It's not only cheaper, but at least as good as the products from the chemist.
Apple cider vinegar toner is great for oily skin. The fruit acid it contains makes the pores contract, which allows the sebaceous glands to calm down. On top of that, apple cider vinegar boasts antibacterial, wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Tip: Simply mix a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar into a cup of cold water and gently apply it to your face. You can easily do this with a cotton pad, for example.
Healing clay against blemished skin
Healing clay has, as the name suggests, very soothing properties. You can buy healing clay as a ready-made mask or as a powder to mix with water at the chemist or pharmacy. Applied damp to the face, it helps absorb excess sebum, skin oil and bacteria.
Ice cubes against pimples
The cold of the ice cubes causes the blood vessels and pores to contract. The ice also has an anti-inflammatory effect, which speeds up the healing of the pimple. Redness and swelling go down, automatically making the pimple less visible.
But be careful: Never place ice cubes directly on your skin – always wrap them in a clean cloth to avoid skin irritation.
Garlic & onion against pimples
Admittedly, it smells a little unpleasant, but the juice of an onion or a clove of garlic can actually help curb the growth of pimples and the spread of blemishes. It's easy, cheap and quick. Just cut the onion or garlic clove in half and rub it on the blemishes. Rinse off with clear water after about five to ten minutes.
Baby powder soothes irritated skin
Baby powder works very well against skin irritation – and not just for babies. It binds excess fluid and can safely be left on overnight. Simply apply the powder to the affected areas with a brush or cotton pad and rinse off any residue the next morning.
Baking soda against blemished skin during menstruation
Baking soda is a similar all-round talent to apple cider vinegar. It has a drying effect and has proven itself as a home remedy against pimples. Simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a teaspoon of water, dab it onto the pimple and rinse off after about 10 minutes. Afterwards you can moisturise your face as usual.
Zinc ointment against blemishes
Zinc ointment supports the healing process. Its disinfecting effect dries out the pimple while fighting bacteria at the same time. It's best to let the ointment work overnight and wash off the residue in the morning.
Our tip: Apply the ointment with a cotton bud – this stops bacteria from your hand getting onto the affected areas.
Camomile tea & steam against clogged pores
The steam opens up the pores so that sebum and dirt can be removed. Simply take a bowl with 1.5 litres of hot water and three camomile tea bags in it, and lean your head over it with a towel for around 10 minutes.
Honey against skin inflammation
Honey is very good at fighting bacteria and promotes healing. Make your own honey mask: apply a thin layer of honey to cleansed skin and leave it on for three hours. Then rinse off with warm water.
Tea tree oil against blackheads & co.
Its distinctive scent is unmistakable – tea tree oil is an absolute classic at the pharmacy and chemist. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect makes it a true secret weapon against blemishes. It dries out the pimple and relieves pain and swelling.
Tip: Only apply the oil to the affected areas with a cotton bud and let it absorb. If you have sensitive skin, it's best to wash the oil off again after 15 to 20 minutes.
Aloe vera against pimples and blackheads
Aloe vera doesn't just work wonders on sunburn – it also helps with pimples and blemishes. The active ingredients it contains soothe blemishes, redness and swelling. If you have a plant at home, you can simply cut off a leaf. The healing gel collects at the cut within a short time. If you don't own a plant, you can also buy ready-made gel at the chemist, pharmacy or online.
How can I prevent pimples?
The best thing, of course, is to stop blemishes from appearing in the first place. Before your period, your skin produces more sebum, so it's important to cleanse your face regularly, ideally in the morning and evening.
During your period, skin often tends to be dry, so make sure to give it plenty of moisture. Argan oil or products containing hyaluronic acid are ideal here.
Tip: Change your towels regularly, as dirt and bacteria build up in them very quickly – and that can lead to more frequent breakouts. You can find more hygiene tips in our guide "Proper intimate care: 9 tips for a healthy vaginal flora".
SUPER. The most comfortable alternative to tampons I have tried so far.
Recommended products
Our latest innovation is a true game-changer in period underwear! Our brand-new, self-adhesive material allows for the combination of period panties with interchangeable inserts – a real change in the world of reusable period care has come! A revolutionary material In close collaboration with our product designers and textile experts, SELENACARE has developed a new technology that redefines flexibility during menstruation – a self-adhesive material! This material is sewn into the crotch of the SELENACARE Easy Comfort Basic Panties, as well as onto the accompanying absorbent inserts. This material makes changing the inserts easier and without slipping! So, the inserts can be changed easily without having to undress. The self-adhesive material allows the inserts to be inserted into the matching SELENACARE Easy Comfort Basic Panties and can be easily replaced when needed, like traditional pads. Unlike traditional pads, our inserts can be reused as they are washable! Say "Goodbye" to the uncomfortable moments of changing and "Hello" to a feeling of absolute flexibility during your period! The SELENACARE Easy Comfort Period Set The SELENACARE Easy Comfort Period Set consists of two parts. The SELENACARE Easy Comfort Basic Panties are the core of our system and are equipped with the self-adhesive material in the crotch – a brilliant base for the SELENACARE Easy Comfort Inserts, the second part of the period set. Absorbent Easy Comfort Inserts with Wetbag The Easy Comfort Inserts are equipped with the specially developed self-adhesive material on one side and are ideally matched to the Basic Panties. This makes inserting them into the crotch area of the panties incredibly easy. Thanks to this self-adhesive property, the insert stays securely in place and does not slip, without relying on uncomfortable or annoying attachment methods. With various levels of absorbency, they are ready to accompany you in every phase of your period – from light to heavy, we've got you covered. Once the Easy Comfort Inserts are fully saturated, they can be easily removed from the Basic Panties and replaced with a new insert. No need to take off the panties, as with traditional period underwear. Simply transport them in the Wetbag, wash, and reuse.
Feel completely protected and free with SELENACARE Free-Cut period underwear. Invisible under your clothes, it offers you comfort, discretion and maximum absorbency during your period. This underwear in sizes XS-M as well as L-XXL was specially developed for medium days and meets the highest demands. Invisible perfection for you Thanks to the innovative Free-Cut design and the thin material, SELENACARE Free-Cut period underwear does not leave any unsightly marks under tight-fitting garments. You can move freely and feel completely comfortable without worrying about visible marks. With this underwear you stay confident and secure in any situation. Maximum comfort and flexibility for you SELENACARE's Free-Cut period underwear offers you not only protection but also exceptional comfort. The super-stretch microfibre material fits your body perfectly and offers maximum flexibility. Whether you're working, exercising or just relaxing, this underwear ensures an optimal fit and freedom of movement for you. Reliable protection for medium days The period underwear has been specially designed for medium days to provide you with a high level of protection. The absorbent layers inside the underwear safely retain fluid and prevent unwanted leakage. You can trust its reliability every day of your period. It's your perfect companion during menstruation. Experience the comfort, discretion and protection you deserve. Be confident and enjoy your freedom no matter what the day brings.
The Period Panty Hipster convinces with its modern cut and super-comfortable fit. As with all our models, the integrated suction surface is discreetly and invisibly incorporated into the period panty. The menstrual underwear absorbs up to 25 ml of fluid. With its low-slung leg and medium waist, it hugs your body perfectly and gives a feeling of security. Light, medium or heavy days The strength of your period can vary throughout your cycle. The Hipster period underwear is ideal for the light and medium days of your period. It provides a dry feeling and does not allow fluid to leak out. On your heavier days, we recommend using the underwear in combination with a menstrual cup or tampon. If you have periods or spotting, you can use either a period slip or a washable pad, depending on the intensity of the bleeding. No restrictions, always well protected There are really no limits to the use of period underwear. You can use them in your free time, at work or on holiday. In addition to period blood, it also absorbs sweat and other fluids and reliably seals them in. Because the material is absorbent, it also gives you a very safe feeling during sports. After use, you can wash the panties out with cold water, air dry them and reuse them. This makes them a convenient, reusable alternative to tampons and disposable pads. Not only do you reduce waste, but you also save money because of their long life. Hygiene and freshness based on silver chloride (biocide active ingredient according to article 95 list) The absorbent layers of the SELENACARE products are equipped with the antimicrobial, biocidal protective finish SILVERPLUS® from RUDOLF GROUP. It prevents the proliferation of odour-causing bacteria. SILVERPLUS® is the leading silver ion technology and is certified according to the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100. OEKO-TEX guarantees that all components have been tested for harmful substances and that the product is harmless to health.
Others also read
Customers also read
Endometriosis vs PCOS: The Differences Explained – and What Helps in Everyday Life
Dilation and Curettage (D&C): A Topic We Need to Talk About
