While pregnancy is a joyous and exciting time of life, it can come with many unappreciated side effects. Aches and pains are common, while many women will also experience sickness, constipation, indigestion and a lot more!
Women may also notice changes to their skin during pregnancy. Its tone and texture can worsen, while some pregnant women may develop acne. If this is something you’re experiencing, here we answer the most-commonly asked questions to help you manage acne throughout your pregnancy.
Can Pregnancy Cause Acne?
As soon as you become pregnant, your hormone levels begin to fluctuate significantly to support the growth and development of your baby. These changes can increase oil production, leading to the formation of pimples and acne spots. If you have a history of acne, particularly if you experience it throughout your menstrual cycle, then you may be more susceptible to developing acne during pregnancy.
How Long Will Pregnancy-related Acne Last?
If you’re going to get acne when you are pregnant, it will most likely occur during the first trimester when the most significant hormonal changes occur. Research suggests that it’s not common to only experience breakouts during the second and third trimesters.
Unfortunately, acne can last your whole pregnancy and may only go away when your hormone levels return to normal. This may be a few months after your baby is born as your body recovers from the significant changes it has gone through.
Can Acne be Treated During Pregnancy?
Keeping your baby safe while you’re pregnant will be your priority, which is why certain prescription medications and treatments commonly recommended for acne are off limits during pregnancy. These include oral isotretinoin and topical retinoids.
Some medications can lead to birth defects, while others simply haven’t been tested on pregnant women just in case of causing adverse events. That’s why we only advise trying topical treatments that contain a small amount of ingredients. This means that they’re unlikely to be absorbed into your blood stream, which could risk harming your baby.
What Acne Treatments can I try When Pregnant?
At Pure Perfection Clinic, the products we recommend for your pregnancy-related acne include:
we have a selection of topical treatments that can help with your pregnancy acne. These include:
- ZO Complexion Clearing Mask: a clay-based formula that purifies pores and absorbs excess oil
- ZO Oil Control Pads: contains salicylic acid to exfoliate dead skin cells while reducing oiliness
- ZO Exfoliating Cleanser: rids the skin of dirt and surface oil to unclog pores and soothe irritation
After a thorough consultation, we may also recommend treatment with Dermalux LED. The blue LED light used in this device provides an anti-bacterial effect to successfully treat congested acne-prone skin. Depending on the level of your concerns, we may sometimes recommend waiting until after your pregnancy to try this treatment.
While acne treatment is limited during pregnancy, you can be reassured that your skin concerns will most likely resolve when your hormone levels settle after your baby is born and you’re no longer breastfeeding.
If you’re still suffering beyond pregnancy and breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Pure Perfection Clinic team who can guide you through multiple other treatment options. We are proud to specialise in acne treatment and offer a range of safe and effective solutions.