What Causes Acne in Pregnancy?

It is a well-known fact that pregnancy can cause hormones to go haywire. Hence, pregnancy and acne may go hand in hand, whether or not you are previously prone to breakouts or not, most especially during the first 3 months of pregnancy. So if you think you have outgrown the zits, well, think again.

Progesterone has been identified as the main culprit that causes the increase of the secretions of glands which can possibly lead to formation of unsightly pimples and pesky zits. However, after the first trimester, the pregnant woman’s body produces progesterone by the placenta and no longer in the ovaries, so you can expect those pimples to eventually clear up after the first three months.

For people who are more prone to acne, it is important to discuss acne treatments with a qualified medical professional. This is mainly because most of the prescription medications for acne can be harmful to an unborn child such as oral isotretenoin, tetracycline and even those topical retinoids. Tetracycline, for one has been known to cause adverse effects on the teeth and bones of a developing fetus. Additionally, Isotretinoin tablets can possibly cause serious abnormalities. In fact, the only antibiotic that has been known to be quite safe to use during pregnancy is Erythromycin.

If you are dealing with pregnancy and acne at the same time, it is generally safe to avoid all forms of drug treatments and opt for natural remedies such as tea tree oil. It is also important to choose a gentle cleansing agent that is mild enough to be used during pregnancy. For those pesky blackheads and overly oily skin, you can opt to use clay masks instead to deeply clean clogged pores and absorb excess oils. And of course, adequate water intake and proper diet is important not just for getting rid of those blemishes, but for the developing baby as well.

Remember, hormonal fluctuations are normal during this stage so you should not be bothered with sudden skin flare-ups. Pregnancy and acne can go hand in hand during this stage but it has been known to eventually go away as you enter your second trimester.