Pregnancy Acne: What, When, & How to Treat

Everyone knows that all kinds of changes happen to the body during pregnancy. Many are considered normal, and however inconvenient or uncomfortable, they’re accepted as part of the process. Weight gain, nausea, heartburn, and food cravings are expected. But what about pregnancy acne?

Even if you have already dealt with acne as a teen or young adult, it can return with a vengeance during periods of pregnancy. To add insult to injury, most treatments on the market aren’t suitable during this time. Topicals and oral medications can negatively impact a growing fetus, and doctors won’t prescribe them.

If you’re dealing with the onset of acne during your pregnancy, it might not be your biggest concern. But this painful and potentially scarring skin concern shouldn’t be left alone.

Let’s explore the causes and possible treatments for pregnancy acne! 

What is pregnancy acne? 

During pregnancy, your body shifts to accommodate and support your future child. As hormone levels change, your skin may skew from normal to oily and acne-prone, leading to breakouts. 

Why does pregnancy acne happen?

Doctors suggest that pregnancy acne is related to teen acne because of changes in hormone levels. As they shift, the sebaceous glands in your skin begin producing more oil, which can cause breakouts. 

Excess oil in your skin attracts grime, which can clog pores. Without intervention, clogged pores may become infected, leading to a breakout.

When does pregnancy acne first occur? 

Pregnancy acne first occurs during the first trimester of your pregnancy. It can continue throughout, usually getting worse during the third trimester.

If you experience acne around your normal menstrual cycle, it could show up before you even know you’re pregnant! 

When does acne pregnancy start to settle down? 

While nearly 40% of pregnant people experience acne, it usually resolves a few weeks after birth. As your body’s hormone levels return to normal, your skin will typically clear up by your baby’s first doctor’s appointment.

Common treatments available for pregnancy acne

Acne during pregnancy is challenging to manage because many common treatments can’t be used. Products containing tretinoin, salicylic acid, and doxycycline can cause problems for your fetus and result in congenital disabilities or miscarriage.

To avoid these, we’ve gathered some treatments that are typically considered safe during pregnancy.

Laser treatments such as Aerolase

Laser treatments are an excellent option for pregnant people with acne. NeoClear by Aerolase provides one avenue for a quick resolution. This non-invasive treatment protocol uses a patented laser technology that not only reduces acne but also improves the quality of your skin. 

A gentle approach to laser therapy, NeoClear allows your provider to treat areas of concern in as little as 15 minutes. This method has little to no downtime, and the results are enhanced by at-home aftercare. 

Some chemical peels

During pregnancy, your body changes how it heals. Chemical peels that require a long recovery period can react differently with your skin during this time.

Superficial chemical peels that use glycolic or lactic acid are considered safe during pregnancy. They don’t penetrate deeply and can help reduce an acne breakout. Talk to your doctor and skincare specialist before proceeding with a chemical peel.

You should avoid peels with salicylic acid, trichloroaceticPrega acid, and Jessner’s solution as they penetrate deeply. 

Pregnancy-safe facial treatments

A relaxing facial can relieve some pregnancy stress and address acne breakouts at the same time! Deep cleansing facials combine exfoliation and hydration to reduce oil levels in your skin. Hydrating facials use collagen and elastin to moisturize your skin and cleanse your pores.

Avoid microdermabrasion, as it can leave your skin scarred and open to further breakouts. Retinoid treatments can absorb deep into your skin and cause complications with your baby’s development. 

Acne pregnancy prevention practices

There are plenty of steps you can take to prevent pregnancy acne from developing in your skin. Home remedies like applying diluted apple cider vinegar to your face and coconut oil as a nighttime moisturizer are common.

Following your regular skincare routine might not be possible, but here are some other tips to try.

Make sure to shampoo regularly 

Many pregnant people experience breakouts around their hairline and scalp. Removing excess oils from your hair can go a long way to preventing this type of concern. Use a gentle shampoo that won’t cause skin irritation regularly to help keep your skin oils in check.

Do not over-cleanse your skin

If this is your first experience with oily skin, the urge to cleanse is powerful. However, over-cleansing can actually cause more problems! Washing your face too often can result in dryness, which can prompt more oil production.

Use a gentle cleanser twice a day to keep your skin feeling clean and fresh.

Consult with your esthetician for best prevention techniques

Check with your esthetician if you feel like you don’t know how to maintain your skin. They have the expertise and experience to provide other treatment options that support your skin and pregnancy.

Pregnancy is challenging, so let The Esthetic Co. help you through the journey!

Dealing with pregnancy acne shouldn’t be a headache! Let the experts at The Esthetic Co. help guide you through treatment options and give you one less thing to worry about. We can provide everything from gentle facials to Aerolase to help you look and feel your best when the big day comes.

Book a consultation with our skincare specialists today!