About Acne Medications for Pregnant Women

Acne medications for pregnant women can be prescribed by a doctor or purchased over-the-counter, but there are several ingredients that must be avoided entirely during pregnancy. Acne medication made with benzoyl peroxide and sodium sulfacetamide is the most common type of topical treatment for pregnant women and these offer several benefits.

Significance

Thousands of women experience excessive acne breakouts during pregnancy, and these are typically a result of fluctuating hormone levels. However, the most common acne medication and over-the-counter products may not be appropriate for pregnant women; many chemicals and acids used in acne products can be harmful to the unborn child, so there are only a few options available for managing acne during pregnancy.

Types

In almost all cases, a woman who is pregnant cannot take oral acne medications. However, there are several topical treatments available that work by sinking into the skin's pores and reducing excess oil production. Topical acne medication made with benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and sodium sulfacetamide have been deemed safe for use by pregnant women. Erythromycin is another valuable medication for acne treatments and is available in both gel and liquid solution forms.

Effects

Topical acne treatments help to clear up skin over time. They can be applied once or twice per day to the affected areas and in some cases, overnight. The skin will begin to turn over at a faster-than-average rate as it "purges" unhealthy cells, toxins and oils and reduces the skin's ability to overproduce natural oils that can clog up pores. Acne treatments can also help calm down the skin during the major hormonal shifts associated with pregnancy, reducing the risk of acne pustules and excessive breakouts.

Benefits

Acne treatments help to kill the bacteria commonly associated with acne, and sink deep into the pores to clean them out and promote cell renewal. Once the skin is no longer inflamed, the cells can purge themselves of toxins and buildup in a natural way, leaving skin more clear and resilient. Acne treatments combined with a healthy skin-care routine can reduce breakouts, improve the appearance of acne scars, and leave skin looking youthful and vibrant.

Considerations

Pregnancy can create several hormonal imbalances that affect a woman's skin, energy levels and even tastes. Acne breakouts are commonly associated with hormonal issues, and typically subside after the pregnancy is over. Many women can discontinue taking acne medication after delivering the baby, and can benefit from spa facials or medical-grade facials shortly after they have fully recovered. Topical ingredients that should be avoided during pregnancy include tretinoin, hydrocortisone, adapalene, salicylic acid and tetracycline. Accutane, a popular acne therapy, is also not considered to be a safe solution while pregnant.

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Resources

• Safe Acne Medications During Pregnancy
• How to Treat Acne During Pregnancy

[nancyw999]

on 12/31/2008 Hello Ladies,

I would just like to remind all the ladies out there, that yes, we all want to avoid chemicals in our food, milk and our household while being pregnant. It is very important. I also want to remind everyone that there are alot of chemicals in skincare today, and pregnant women should only use chemical free or Organic face creams.

Your skin is an organ - that you are sharing with your unborn child. Any chemicals applied to your skin will feed the growth of your child. And please do your research on the internet regarding chemicals in skin care products.

My personal recommendation, is the Made from Earth product line. They are completely chemical free and organic, and their products have a shelf life of 6 months, because they are not presevred with chemicals, but they do use quality ingredients. I used their 3 Berry Face Serum while I was pregnant, and its a