Acne is common during pregnancy. In fact, more than one out of every two pregnant women can expect to develop acne. In some cases, the acne may be severe such that it may require medical intervention.
The primary cause of acne during pregnancy is the increased hormone levels especially in the first trimester. The increased levels of hormones increases the skin's production of natural oils thereby leading to acne.Those with a history of acne or have acne flares at the start of your menstrual cycle, have a higher chance of developing acne during pregnancy. If you do not develop acne during the first trimester, it's unlikely you'll have breakouts during the second or third trimesters.
Treating acne when you're pregnant can be tricky. That's because many prescription and over-the-counter treatments come with a high risk of birth defects.Its advisable you avoid prescriptions that may harm your unborn child.
Managing Acne During Pregnancy
Pregnancy acne is a natural, cosmetic condition that usually resolves on its own after birth and usually subsides when hormone levels return to normal. So the safest thing to do is to avoid any prescription acne medications or over-the-counter chemical spot treatments. Instead, you can use home remedies to treat any acne flare ups.
Below are some methods for coping with pregnancy acne that are drug-free:
- Limit washing to two times per day and after heavy sweating specially after exercise.
- When you do wash, use a gentle, oil-free, alcohol-free, and non-abrasive cleanser.
- Use a cotton pad or washcloth to lightly wash your face ((but change and use a clean cloth or pad each time)
- After washing, rinse your skin with lukewarm water. Then gently pat dry and apply moisturizer.
- Avoid over-cleansing. It can overstimulate the skin's oil glands.
- Shampoo regularly. If you have oily skin, it's best to shampoo daily. Avoid oily hair moisturizers near the hairline.
- Change your pillowcases frequently.
- Keep your hands off your face because there are bacteria on the fingers.
- Use earbuds. Don’t hold a dirty cellphone against the face.
- Above all, avoid the temptation to squeeze or pop your pimples. This usually results in permanent acne scars. If you have clogged pores, get a professional facial.
Remember its only for a while and once the baby is born, acne will be a thing of the past.