As a young child, I had a lot of skin allergies, eczema, and rashes. It made my childhood difficult. As I got older, those skin problems turned into severe acne and sensitive skin. I spent years learning about how to treat my skin to minimize the effects of these things. There are natural treatments, dietary changes, and even dermatology treatments that can help. I don't want to see others suffer the way that I did with skin problems like these, so I created this site to help teach others about the things that I've learned. I hope that the information here helps you to care for your skin and minimize your rashes and issues.
Three Things You Need To Know About Treating Acne During Pregnancy
The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can lead to a host of secondary symptoms, including the resurgence of acne. After you have your baby, the acne normally subsides once your hormones return to their normal levels. However, that does not mean you have to suffer in the meantime. Here are three things you need to know about effectively treating acne during pregnancy.
1. Don't Overcleanse
It can be tempting to try to scrub your acne away by washing your face multiple times each day with harsh cleansers. However, this can make your acne worse in the long run. By stripping your skin of its natural oils, it will produce even more oil to compensate. If your face is dry, this can actually encourage oil to get trapped in your pores.
Instead, wash your face in the morning and at night with a gentle cleanser.
2. Know What Medications to Stay Away From
It is permissible to use acne medication during pregnancy, but it is important to know what medications to avoid. During pregnancy, many doctors usually recommend that their patients stay away from acne medications that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Neither of these substances have been studied extensively enough to be labeled as safe for usage during pregnancy. Instead, consider using a medication that contains erythromycin or clindamycin.
In cases where your acne does not respond to erythromycin or clindamycin, it is important to consult with your dermatologist and obgyn for other alternatives. Some doctors will approve the use of products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in small doses.
If you have cystic acne or a widespread breakout, your doctor may prescribe a short-term antibiotic to help get your bacteria levels under control and clear up severe breakouts. Numerous antibiotics are deemed safe for usage during pregnancy.
Avoid using any acne medication that contains retinoids or isotretinoin, as these ingredients are associated with birth defects.
3. Check Your Personal Care Items
Take a moment to consider if you may be using any personal care items that are contributing to your acne, such as hair care products or body lotions. When styling your hair, it is easy for a small amount of hair product to make its way to your forehead and cause a breakout. Or, you may frequently touch your hair and then touch your face.
Make sure all hair products stay on your head. Scented body lotions or heavy skin products can also clog pores and irritate the skin; you may want to swap your current moisturizer for a product that is labeled as oil-free and non-comedogenic.
If you apply makeup using brushes, make sure to regularly wash your brushes, as they can harbor acne-causing bacteria.
Speak to a dermatology professional for more information.