How to Deal With Acne During Pregnancy

Ok, it’s a known fact that not every woman has healthy glowing skin while pregnant. In fact thanks to a higher level of hormones, pregnancy can bring on acne or make it worse, and some women actually develop what is nicknamed a “mask of pregnancy.” These are brownish pigmented areas around the cheek nose and eyes. Unfortunately, you can’t just go out and pick up any medication to help take care of the problem because certain meds are prohibited to be used in pregnancy. The good news is there are ways to reduce or get rid of this acne without putting you or your baby at risk.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Wash gently with a mild soap or cleanser twice a day, and if you use moisturizer make sure it's oil-free. Also make sure to wash your face with your hands, instead of scrubbing with a washcloth. Scrubbing can make the problem worse.

2. Resist that urge to pop, squeeze or rub those pimples. Yes, it’s tempting, but it will only make the situation worse. It can cause the bacteria to spread and can leave acne scars.

3. Talk to your doctor before using any kind of medication, including over the counter ones. There are a several natural skin-care products that may be safe for both you and baby, but again, check with your doctor or health care provider.

4. Your diet can make a tremendous difference. Foods that contain antioxidants can help fight off acne. This is foods like salmon, dark green veggies, olives, berries, strawberries and extra virgin olive oil.

5. Exercise matters. Daily exercise will increase your circulation and blood flow to the skin, helping it to tone and become healthy. It also reduces stress, another component that can cause acne.

6. If you wear makeup, use products that are water based and labeled "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic," meaning they won't clog your pores and cause breakouts. Be sure to wash off your makeup before going to bed, too.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay away from any acne medications that contain Tetracycline, Salicyclic Acid (a common ingredient in over-the-counter acne treatments), Tretinon (sold under the brand name Retin-A), and Isotrentinoin (sold under the brand name Accutane). Medications containing retinoic acid, which is used to treat severe acne, are dangerous for the unborn child. Scientific studies have shown Retinoic acid (Roaccutane) to cause birth defects and, in some cases, miscarriage. Topical treatments containing Tretinoin are also considered hazardous for the same reasons.