How to Treat Acne during Pregnancy
It is very common for a pregnant woman to have acne. There are many treatments out there, but which one is safe? It is always best to speak to your physician before trying anything to treat your acne while you are pregnant.
The causes of acne during pregnancy is due to the hormonal changes occurring in the body, even women who have always had clear skin can experience acne during the first trimester. Acne can clear up as the pregnancy progresses, so it really doesn’t have to be something that is stressed over. Doctors attribute the clearing of acne due to increased estrogen levels.
Treating acne during pregnancy is relatively easy. Topical creams that contain Benzoyl Peroxide, and Azealic acid are both safe and easy to use. Oral medications should always be avoided while pregnant. There is the exception of Erythromycin which can be prescribed by your doctor if your acne is severe. The two medications to avoid if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant are, Tetracycline, and Oral Isotretinoin, because both of these can harm the fetus and cause birth defects.
Trying the natural approach with the use of herbs is not always the safest. Just because it is herbal does not mean safe. Herbs are very powerful so be sure to speak to your physician before trying any herbal means of treating your acne during pregnancy.
It may take some creativity to control your acne during pregnancy but there are some very safe methods you can take to prevent breakouts:
- Switch to water-based makeup, instead of oil-based makeup you may use.
- Look specifically for makeup that won’t clog pores, or cause breakouts. These products are called, noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic.
- Wash your face gently during this time and avoid scrubbing your skin so that you do not upset the tiny hair follicles on your face.
- Use mild soaps, avoiding soaps with perfumes, oils, and lotions in them. Use clay masks to soak up extra oil that is found on the surface of your skin, due to over productive glands. This can also be very relaxing for you and the baby.
Massage is another safe and relaxing way to treat your acne during pregnancy. Massage is very beneficial in stress release, circulation, sleep patterns, increased immune system, and has many other benefits as well. The point of human contact is also a great way for Dad’s and Mom’s to interact with the baby as well as enjoying the physical contact together.
Eating a healthy diet is very important while being pregnant, but it also plays an important role in keeping your acne under control. Eating foods that are rich in fiber, staying away from sugar, and fried foods will also help you control acne breakouts.
Drinking water is vital during your pregnancy because it will help flush out those toxins and bacteria in the body, as well as help flush those things to your intestines so that your body can remove them. Be sure to drink eight to ten, eight ounce glasses a day for healthier skin.
