Table of Contents
During pregnancy, women experience numerous emotional and physiological changes. The outcome of these changes affects overall well-being, with the skin being no exception. As for the latter, particularly, acne is a common occurrence. Globally, over 40 percent of expectant women suffer from breakouts. So, if you’ve been confronting it, don’t feel alone! Dealing with pregnancy acne is possible. However, you must know what causes it and its treatment options.
Causes of Pregnancy Acne
Acne during pregnancy results from increased hormone levels in the first trimester. The high levels of hormones stimulate the production of natural oils. Not everyone suffers from acne during pregnancy. Women with a history of breakouts during the beginning of their menstrual cycle are more prone to pregnancy acne.
In addition to the above, increased blood flow and fluid volume during pregnancy can result in skin changes and worsen acne. Besides, acne scars can also be the outcome of pregnancy-related emotional and physical stress.
When Does Pregnancy Begin?
Practically, you can suffer from breakouts anytime during pregnancy. However, in most cases, acne blemishes become visible around 5-6 weeks into pregnancy. Some women may be oblivious to pregnancy during this time. Hence, the sudden appearance of acne may indicate pregnancy, although one shouldn’t make conclusions based on it.
Does Pregnancy Acne Stay Forever?
No. Pregnancy acne doesn’t stay forever. It usually disappears after a few weeks of childbirth. So, you need not worry about pregnancy acne as it is natural, unless it is in excess and irritating, for which you can consult an expert.
How to Treat Pregnancy Acne?
While you have numerous treatment options to treat acne, pregnancy demands more care, thought, and expert consultation while dealing with acne. It is because the treatment shouldn’t harm you, your baby, or both. Some potential generic treatments for pregnancy acne include the following.
Know more about what causes acne in babies.
Following Skincare Routine
A skin expert will chart a safe and proper skincare routine to combat pregnancy acne. Generally speaking, you must use a mild soap-free cleanser to wash your face twice daily and refrain from scrubbing your skin to avoid irritation. Additionally, choosing non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products that do not clog pores, can help you deal with acne better.
Nutritional Adjustments
Nutrition plays a vital role in acne control during pregnancy. Accordingly, a diet rich in fruits, whole grains, and vegetables can keep the skin healthy. Besides, staying hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water can help control acne breakouts. You must also avoid foodstuffs spiking blood sugar levels. Restricting refined carbs and sugary snacks can help significantly in this regard.
Topical Treatments
In addition to natural treatment options, your skin expert may also recommend topical treatments. These can include using benzoyl peroxide, sulfur-based treatments, and azelaic acid.
Stress Management
Another significant aspect of treating pregnancy acne is managing stress. Techniques like meditation, prenatal Yoga, and ensuring adequate rest can keep stress levels under control and potentially benefit acne management.
How to Prevent Acne During Pregnancy?
Whether pregnant or not, acne can be annoying, Thankfully, with the below tips you can prevent acne during pregnancy. Here’s what you can do to do that.
- Follow an expert and well-suited skincare routine
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet
- Choose treatments safe during pregnancy, particularly in your case
- Avoid hormonal treatments, retinoids, and high-dose salicylic acid
- Keep stress away
Need Expert Pregnancy Acne Treatment? Welcome to Eva Pimples, Skin and Hair Clinic!
Acne pregnancy is common and normal. Hence, you don’t have to stress yourself out for it. Adhering to expert and best-suited measures can help you deal with it effectively. If you need specialist advice for the right treatment options, you’ve got us. We are a team of seasoned skin experts based out of Wakad, Pune. Our personalized and safe treatment can help you get rid of pregnancy acne. Call us at +91 788 799 1919 to schedule an appointment with our specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use acne treatments during pregnancy?
It is. However, not all acne treatments are safe during pregnancy. You must consult a skin expert and know what’s right for you to avoid side effects and risks.
Does pregnancy acne go after delivery?
Yes. In most cases, pregnancy-related acne goes away after delivery as hormone levels return to normal. Nevertheless, individual situations may vary.
Is pregnancy acne risky?
It isn’t. However, it could become a cosmetic concern. Accordingly, you must deal with it per a skin expert’s advice.
Can aloe vera reduce pregnancy acne?
Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit acne. However, you must always do a patch test and consult your skin expert before trying aloe vera or other natural ingredients like honey or tea tree oil.
