How to Safely Treat Acne During Pregnancy

Many women experience acne during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased oil production. If you're faced with this unwelcomed pregnancy side effect, you may wonder if acne treatments are safe. While it might be difficult to avoid acne during pregnancy completely, there are natural ways to treat pimples and prevent future breakouts.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Keep your skin clean. Wash with a mild, oil-free cleanser twice a day. Avoid acne treatments that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and/or retinoids (sometimes listed as retinol, Retin-A, tretinoin, or retinyl palmitate). After cleansing, gently pat your face dry with a towel and follow with an oil-free moisturizer if needed.

2. 
    

   Before going to bed, apply fresh lemon juice to any active blemishes with a cotton ball. Leave the juice on overnight and rinse off in the morning. If your skin is sensitive, dilute the lemon juice with water before applying.

3. 
    

   If you wear makeup, use products that are labeled noncomedogenic, which means they won't clog your pores. Be sure to remove all makeup before going to bed. During the day, blot your skin with oil-absorbing sheets or paper to remove any excess oil.

4. 
    

   Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated. Also, including a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet can help with acne during pregnancy.

5. 
    

   Exercise daily to increase circulation. Shower immediately after working out to prevent future breakouts.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid the urge to pick at your pimples and touch your face as this can spread bacteria and cause scarring.
• For many women, acne during pregnancy begins to clear up after the first trimester.
• Do not use any oral or topical acne treatments without first talking to your doctor.

Resources

• Pregnancy Safe Acne Treatment: BELLI Facial Wash
• Beaute De Maman Facial Scrub For Pregnant Women

[oxymora]

on 7/16/2009 Very good information.

[sonni57]

on 7/16/2009 Good tips for pregnant women who get acne the hormones do it every time.