Acne is a common skin condition that affects many people, especially during their teenage years. However, it can also appear during adulthood and even during pregnancy. Pregnancy can cause many changes in a woman’s body and skin, and one of those changes can be an increase in acne.
What Causes Acne During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, a woman’s body produces a lot of hormones, including progesterone and estrogen. These hormones can cause an increase in sebum production, which can lead to acne. Additionally, the increased levels of progesterone can cause an increase in the production of androgen hormones, which can also contribute to acne.
What Can You Do About Acne During Pregnancy?
Treating acne during pregnancy can be tricky because many of the traditional treatments are not recommended during pregnancy. For example, most topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are not recommended during pregnancy. Additionally, some oral medications, such as isotretinoin (Accutane), should also be avoided during pregnancy.
However, there are some treatments that are safe to use during pregnancy. Your doctor may recommend topical treatments such as azelaic acid, which is derived from grains, or a retinoid cream, which can help to reduce sebum production and reduce inflammation. Additionally, your doctor may recommend a topical antibiotic or an antibiotic taken orally to help treat the acne.
In addition to medication, there are also some lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce acne during pregnancy. These include washing your face with a gentle cleanser twice a day, avoiding scrubbing your skin, avoiding wearing makeup, and avoiding touching or picking at the acne.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you are pregnant and experiencing an increase in acne, it is important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment for your acne and provide guidance on how to manage it. Additionally, if you experience any other changes in your skin, such as discoloration, itching, or rash, it is important to talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
Pregnancy can cause many changes in a woman’s body and skin, and one of those changes can be an increase in acne. Treating acne during pregnancy can be tricky because many of the traditional treatments are not recommended during pregnancy. However, there are some treatments that are safe to use during pregnancy, as well as some lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce acne. If you are pregnant and experiencing an increase in acne, it is important to talk to your doctor so they can help you determine the best course of treatment.