What is Pregnancy Acne?
Dealing with pregnancy acne can be frustrating. This common skin condition, also known as gestational acne, affects many women due to hormonal shifts during pregnancy. While not a distinct form of acne, understanding its causes and treatment options is crucial for managing this temporary skin issue.
When does it start?
Like most symptoms associated with pregnancy, there is no specific time when acne begins. In fact, pregnancy acne can start anytime during pregnancy and varies from person to person. While some women experience acne in early pregnancy, others do at a later point. The intensity of pregnancy also varies in women and may be directly related to the underlying hormonal changes a woman undergoes.
Where does Pregnancy Acne occur?
Acne occurs in areas of the body with lots of oil glands. These glands are found in the skin and release oil into the hair follicles to lubricate hair and skin. Most common areas of pregnancy acne include the face, back, chest and neck.
Studies have shown that over 80% of pregnant women develop acne on the trunk (chest, back, abdomen, or pelvis). Pregnancy acne on the skin appears to be the most common area on the face, with over 69% of women developing it
What causes Pregnancy Acne?
The hormones that a woman’s body produces during pregnancy don’t just help the baby grow but also affect her entire body, including the skin.
Hormonal fluctuations are one of the primary causes of pregnancy acne. During pregnancy, the levels of the hormones oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone (androgens) increase. These stimulate oil production in the skin, triggering acne.
An increase in oil production clogs pores in the skin, leading to bacterial growth. This can trigger acne during pregnancy.
Women with a history of acne or those having acne experience an aggravation of their condition during pregnancy.
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What does Pregnancy Acne look like: Signs and Symptoms
If you thought pregnancy acne looked different, well, it doesn’t! Pregnancy acne looks like regular acne. Here are a few characteristics of pregnancy acne, and these may vary from person to person:
- Pimples, whiteheads or blackheads
- Inflammation, redness and scarring
Many women complain of more inflammation during pregnancy acne than regular acne. This inflammation is also found to be more pronounced on the body than on the face.
How is Pregnancy Acne treated?
Can you get rid of pregnancy acne? You sure can! Here are a few things that can help clear your skin during pregnancy and reduce the incidence of pregnancy acne:
One of the most commonly used products for facial care is a face wash. It is also the most basic step in preventing acne during pregnancy. Consult your dermatologist, who will recommend the most suitable cleanser, shampoo, and face wash to reduce oil on the skin and hair.
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Remember to avoid products that may irritate your skin. For products that touch your skin, opt for oil-free and non-comedogenic options.
If you are looking for an effective and safe way to get rid of pregnancy acne, we highly recommend a consultation with a dermatologist. They will evaluate your skin and tailor the treatment plan and medications to suit your body.
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In most cases of severe pregnancy acne, the dermatologist may prescribe certain antibiotics that are effective on your acne but safe for your baby and you. Follow your doctor’s instructions thoroughly.
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The dermatologist may also recommend applying one or more topical medications to the affected areas of the skin.
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In some cases, laser and light therapy may be used as they are safe and effective for treating pregnancy acne. These therapies kill bacteria within the pores and help reduce inflammation in the skin.
At Hortman Clinics, we understand the complex interplay of factors during pregnancy. Therefore, treatment plans are always curated based on the woman’s health. We recommend treatments and medications that are permitted during pregnancy.
A few therapies that must be avoided for acne treatment during pregnancy include:
- Hormonal therapy
- Antibiotics like oral tetracyclines and topical retinoids
Speak to your healthcare provider, including your gynaecologist, before considering any treatment during pregnancy.
How to prevent acne during pregnancy?
Since hormonal fluctuations and their effects primarily cause pregnancy acne, there is no 100% guarantee that one can prevent it. However, here are some ways to reduce the incidence and intensity of this condition:
Follow a gentle skincare routine that includes using a non-abrasive cleanser with lukewarm water, shampooing your hair regularly to reduce acne risk around your hairline, using water-based products, and avoiding products that may irritate your skin.
Avoid certain scrubs, astringents, and cosmetics that may clog your skin's pores and exacerbate acne. It is also advised to keep hair off your face to prevent oil from the hair from getting transferred to the skin. Opt for flowy, loose clothing that does not trap oil and cause acne breakouts
Pregnant women are advised to eat a nutritious and clean diet during pregnancy to ensure optimal nutrients reach the baby and keep the mother healthy. Stay hydrated and avoid processed and oily foods to prevent excess oil production and, subsequently, clogging of pores, as they may trigger acne.
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Final Thoughts!
Acne may not be the worst of the symptoms that a woman experiences during pregnancy, but it can be a challenge to deal with. In addition to its annoying symptoms, pregnancy acne may impact a woman’s self-esteem. But don’t let it affect you. With advances in dermatology, many treatment options are available to help you manage it better.
Whether it is your first time dealing with pregnancy acne or you have experienced it in a past pregnancy, you can rest assured you are not alone! Treat yourself with compassion and seek a consultation with a dermatologist who will help you manage your pregnancy acne effectively and, most importantly, safely.
Struggling and frustrated with pregnancy acne? Book a consultation with our skin care experts at Hortman Clinics, Dubai right away! Our Pregnancy Facial Package is the best way to hydrate, pamper and soothe your skin. Our experts tailor the procedure for moms-to-be to give you the glow you truly deserve!
To learn more about hair implants and whether they are right for you, contact our experts at Hortman Clinics today!
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