How To Treat Acne During Pregnancy

Acne is a common problem faced by most men and women today. While the problem is more serious in men, acne affects young women too. In most women, acne is linked to hormonal changes, and occurs usually during the menstrual cycle or during pregnancy.

Why does acne occur during pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a time when hormones in the body fluctuate and many changes occur. This imbalance in hormones often leads to the overproduction of skin oil and causes a form of acne known as pregnancy acne. It is usually characterized by acne legions, more often around the mouth, chest, back and shoulder areas.


Risk of treatment
Unlike other forms of acne, acne treatment during pregnancy can prove to have implications. This is so because the unborn foetus may be affected, if the wrong medication is given. While risk is less in mild to moderate forms of acne where topical medication can help, risk is often quite high in cases of severe acne, where medication is required. Oral medicines can often cause birth defects like hearing disabilities in children.

Medication in the market
Today many over the counter products are available to treat mild, moderate and severe forms of acne. Most doctors also prescribe medicines for acne treatment during pregnancy. However the general norm is to use minimal medication and avoid introducing drugs in the bloodstream that affect the foetus. The recommended topical medicines include those that contain benzoyl peroxide as the active ingredient. However, topical medicines containing salicylic acids are usually not recommended. Doctors may prescribe Accutane, or Isotretinoin in cases of strict acne, but it is useful to remember that these drugs can affect the foetus and are not recommended for those who are pregnant or are trying to get pregnant.


Recommended diet
While pregnancy acne is not caused by the foods consumed. A nutritious and well balanced diet is of high importance to control it. This means that foods that protect against bacteria, help the skin to recover from damage and regulate the metabolism of the body must be consumed. On the contrary, a food that slows the digestive system, create skin disorders or upset the hormonal balance must be avoided. It is thus recommended that the diet must comprise of zinc, fibre, vitamin A and B, chromium and fatty acids. Alcohol, caffeine, sugar and dairy products must be avoided as far as possible.

Recommended care
A good skin and body care routine must be followed to control acne too. This would involve cleaning the skin regularly without over-drying it. A mild soap can be used for the purpose. A non-medicated astringent that removes the excess oil can be used after washing the face.