Acne With Pregnancy

Acne with Pregnancy

Acne with pregnancy usually occurs during the first trimester and is typically a result of escalating hormones. As hormone levels increase, skin pores begin producing more oil resulting in pimple breakouts. These breakouts are not limited to the face and many pregnant women find themselves with body acne in the most unlikely places. Of course, there is no cause for alarm if this happens. The biggest problem concerning this issue is probably self-esteem.

The hormone that causes acne with pregnancy is progesterone. This multi-function hormone is vital in a woman’s pregnancy in preparing the uterus for the fetus among other things. At the onset of pregnancy and during the first trimester progesterone is produced by the ovaries. In order to safely keep the embryo, a good bit of progesterone is released into the system which stimulates the oil glades to produce more oil. Of course, this results in oily skin, blocked or infected pores, and voila…acne with pregnancy.

Near the end of the first trimester the placenta takes on the task of progesterone production, hormone levels begin to stabilize, and estrogen production increases. Once this happens many women see their acne get better or go away completely.

So that’s why the acne happens. Now let’s look at what you can do to prevent it, or at least keep it under control.

Acne with Pregnancy – Keeping It under Control

Pregnant women must be very careful and selective when using any products. This especially applies to medications. Always consult a physician before using any type of acne remedy including natural home remedies, creams, and gels. Not all over the counter medications are safe to use during this time and can affect the baby. It is important to note that some natural herbs actually induce labor.

Here are some actions you can take that do not involve medications.

Hydration plays a part in acne with pregnancy. Drinking at least 10 glasses of water a day helps flush the system of wastes and toxins. Water in your system also dilutes hormone secretion. Staying well hydrated is very beneficial to your skin and helps minimize some of the unwelcome symptoms of pregnancy. Moisturized skin tends to be healthy skin.

Washing your face frequently, at least twice a day, can help as well. The goal here is to keep the skin clean. If using a facial cleanser make sure it is gentle, has mild ingredients, and is safe to use. Don’t scrub your skin harshly as this irritates the acne and can spread bacteria, making the situation worse.

Tea tree oil has been known to lessen acne with pregnancy as well as vapor treatments, and certain types of masks.

If using moisturizers or other creams, stay away from oil based products.

Keep your body healthy by exercising and eating lots of veggies and fruits. Exercise helps to cleanse your body through perspiration. Antioxidants found in certain fruits and vegetables are also helpful in reducing acne with pregnancy.

Rest and get as much sleep as you can. This can actually help to control breakouts.

Acne with Pregnancy – Final Thoughts

It is estimated that at least one third of pregnant women experience acne early on in their pregnancy so you are not alone. Fortunately, this tends to subside by the end of the first trimester but depends on the individual. Hormones can wreak havoc on your body, and they usually do. Just remember that all these unwelcome symptoms will eventually go away and at some point during the next nine months you will not have to be concerned about acne with pregnancy.

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