Acne can follow you past your teenage years, into adulthood, and even during pregnancy. Many women who might or might not have suffered from acne as an adult begin facing this problem when they are expectant mothers. It has been observed that women who have faced acne issues earlier and those who suffer from acne as a premenstrual symptom are more prone to it.
Pregnancy acne is a result of increased hormonal activity during the first three months of pregnancy. We know that hormonal imbalance and high levels of testosterone cause the sebaceous glands to get overworked. This in turn contributes to excessive sebum production and secretion which can clog pores and cause acne breakouts. So if you happen to get past your third month without any sign of acne you can breathe a sigh of relief it’s less likely to bother you now.
There are two very important things that you should always keep in mind if you are suffering from pregnancy acne and those are:
1)Follow a regular skin cleansing toning and moisturizing regime, preferably with all natural products.
2)Be VERY careful of what medicines you consume or products you use on your skin.
Many acne medications, drugs, topical solutions, and other treatments are harmful for your baby. They may cause severe birth defects, abnormalities, and other diseases. It’s best that you avoid using any kind of spot treatments or even prescription medications. Your acne can be taken care of with herbal or homemade acne remedies. But if your medications or products have side effects on your child, the damage will be irreversible.
There are some drugs and ingredients that you need to avoid when you are pregnant or when you want to get pregnant. Isotretinoin or Accutane should be avoided at all costs. Many serious birth defects and even miscarriages have resulted with the use of this medication.
Tetracycline, tretinoin, minocycline, doxycycline, and topical retinoids are on the ‘Not to be used’ list as well. Some doctors might recommend low concentrations of benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or erythromycin for you. In any case, you will be safest if you use natural acne treatments.
Your skin may become very sensitive during pregnancy and even after delivery. Good basic skin care is the best way for you to look and feel good. Keep the health of you baby always in mind and remember whatever you use will directly or indirectly affect the baby, whether you are pregnant or a lactating mother. So be selective about what you buy and use.
