Thursday, February 19, 2009

Acne and Pregnancy

By Fran Anderson

A common problem that affects many women during pregnancy is acne. As the pregnancy progresses, the acne does tend to clear up, but that does not mean that pregnant women have to just wait patiently for it to go away. There are acne treatments available that are safe for use during pregnancy.

Acne during pregnancy is generally caused by changes in hormone levels, not by the more common causes of clogged pores or bacteria beneath the skin. As such, all pregnant women are susceptible to breakouts, regardless of whether bouts of acne were a problem in the past. Having had clear, healthy skin your whole life will not make you immune to acne while pregnant.

Making sure to wash your face in the morning and before bed with a gentle cleanser and using a mild moisturizer as needed may do enough to keep acne at bay even while pregnant. If you are pregnant and searching for an acne treatment, though, ask your doctor for a recommendation. Be aware that acne remedies designed to open clogged pores or fight acne causing bacteria may not be effective due to your acne being likely caused by increased hormone levels.

Non-prescription, topically applied treatments such as those containing a lower concentration of salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can generally be safely used while pregnant. Be cautious, though, and talk to your doctor before using any topical remedy.

Oral acne medications should be avoided in general and only be used when prescribed by your doctor. Some of the active ingredients in orally administered acne medicines are unsafe and pose serious risks when taken during pregnancy.

Consult your doctor if you are thinking of trying an herbal remedy as well. Just because the packaging on an acne treatment reads "all natural" or similar that does not make it safe to use while pregnant. Your doctor will be able to advise you.

Women are prone to outbreaks of acne during pregnancy unfortunately, but acne does not have to go untreated while pregnant. Incorporating a doctor approved acne treatment into your normal skin care routine can result in having healthy skin during pregnancy. - 15438

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