When does pregnancy acne go away?

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that brings joy and excitement to a woman’s life. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges, including hormonal changes that can lead to skin issues such as acne. If you’re currently experiencing pregnancy acne, you’re not alone. It’s a common condition that affects many expectant mothers.

But the good news is that there are natural home remedies that can help you deal with it. In this post, we’ll explore when pregnancy acne usually goes away and share some effective natural remedies to help you manage it.

So, let’s dive in!

pregnancy acne
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    The Takeaway

    • Pregnancy acne is a common occurrence caused by changes in hormone levels and the immune system.
    • Women who have had acne in the past are more likely to experience breakouts during pregnancy.
    • A dermatologist can safely help you find a pregnancy acne treatment and skincare routine that suits your needs and preferences.

    Is acne a sign of pregnancy?

    According to a 2017 review article, around 42% of pregnant women experience acne during their pregnancy. However, not all pregnant women develop acne. Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, the founding director of the Bay Dermatology Centre and an assistant professor at the University of Toronto Department of Medicine, states that whether or not a woman’s acne worsens or stays the same during pregnancy largely depends on whether or not she had acne before becoming pregnant. In other words, acne is not a definitive indicator of pregnancy, but it is a possibility.

    Does pregnancy cause acne?

    Oh, the joys of pregnancy can be overwhelming, but one aspect that expecting mothers might find less exhilarating is the possibility of acne flare-ups. It’s no secret that pregnancy causes our bodies to undergo a series of changes, and one such modification revolves around hormones.

    The surge in hormones, particularly the increase in progesterone, is responsible for stimulating the skin’s oil glands, which can potentially cause acne breakouts. Fear not, dear expecting mothers, as this plight may not befall everyone during pregnancy. Similar to the way each pregnancy is unique, so too are the skin conditions that arise during this time.

     

    For those who find themselves coming face to face with this pesky problem, consulting a healthcare professional can make a world of difference in paving the path to clearer skin.

    When does pregnancy acne start? ​

    Pregnancy acne typically starts during the first trimester, when hormone levels are dramatically increasing and fluctuating. These changes cause the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. While most cases of acne during pregnancy will resolve on its own after delivery, some women can experience flare-ups throughout the course of their pregnancy.

    To minimize the risk of acne flare-ups, it is important to practice good skincare habits and use gentle, non-irritating products.

    When does pregnancy acne go away?​

    The duration of acne during pregnancy varies from person to person, depending on multiple factors. Generally, if your pregnancy has been uneventful, and you aren’t excessively stressed, the acne may clear up by the third trimester or shortly after delivery. However, due to the ongoing hormonal fluctuations in the body during post-pregnancy periods, acne may persist in some women. There is no standard timeline for acne resolution since every woman’s pregnancy is unique.

    Anxiety and stress can trigger acne during pregnancy, irrespective of the duration of the pregnancy. The timing of acne aggravation may differ among individuals. If acne persists after delivery and you wish to treat it while breastfeeding, certain over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are deemed safe. It is always advisable to consult with your pharmacist to determine the right treatment for you.

    What does pregnancy acne look like?​

    Acne while pregnant is similar in appearance to typical acne breakouts. The affected area of the skin typically becomes red or pink and feels sensitive. The breakout typically appears as small bumps in a rash-like pattern. Inflammation is often heightened during pregnancy, resulting in more prominent redness and swollen lesions. Moreover, acne can also appear on the body, particularly on the chest and back.

    How to get rid of acne when pregnant at home?

    Natural pregnancy acne remedies:​

    1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser twice a day: Use warm water and a mild soap or cleanser to remove dirt, oil and bacteria from the skin’s surface. Be sure to rinse off all of the product thoroughly.
    2. Avoid heavy makeup: If you are prone to acne during pregnancy, avoid wearing heavy foundation or powder. Instead, opt for lighter makeup that won’t clog pores.
    3. Apply an over-the-counter acne treatment: Look for one with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria on the skin. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and limit use to prevent excessive drying of the skin.
    4. Apply a topical cream: If you have severe acne, your doctor may prescribe a cream containing antibiotics or retinoids to reduce inflammation and aid healing. Always check with your doctor before using any product during pregnancy.
    5. Eating a healthy diet: Eat foods that are rich in vitamins A, E, and zinc which can help reduce inflammation and heal the skin. Switch to foods that are rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, sardines, mackerel, flaxseeds and walnuts. Also reduce your intake of dairy products, which can raise the levels of hormones that can cause acne. Drinking lots of water will also help flush out toxins from the body.
    6. Use honey: Honey has long been used as a natural remedy to treat pregnancy acne. The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of honey work to reduce the appearance of acne by drawing out impurities from the skin and reducing redness. Honey also contains antibacterial compounds that can help reduce bacteria on the surface of the skin, preventing further breakouts. Honey is a great addition to any skincare regimen, as it can provide relief without the harsh chemicals found in many over-the-counter acne treatments.
      To use honey for pregnancy acne, simply apply a thin layer of raw, organic honey directly onto the affected areas and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and pat the skin dry. You can also mix honey with other ingredients such as essential oils or aloe vera gel for added benefits.

    Do pimples on face during pregnancy means you’re having boy or girl?​

    There is a popular old wives’ tale that suggests if you develop acne during pregnancy, you’re likely to have a girl. Conversely, if you have clear skin, it means you’re carrying a boy. However, thanks to modern medicine, we no longer need to rely on such skin changes to predict a baby’s gender.

    It’s important to understand that the gender of your child has no bearing on pregnancy breakouts. No scientific evidence supports the notion that acne during pregnancy is more or less likely based on the baby’s gender, despite what superstitions may suggest. The hormonal changes that cause acne are a result of pregnancy in general.

    Nevertheless, women who are pregnant with multiples have a higher hormone load and may be more prone to developing pregnancy acne than those carrying a single baby.

    Fortunately, expectant parents can now determine the gender of their baby through a visit to a pregnancy ultrasound clinic like A Date With Baby. Although the results are typically highly accurate, they may not be always 100% depending on several factors.

    Final Words

    When it comes to pregnancy acne, it’s important to keep in mind that it is temporary and will eventually go away on its own. However, there are several home remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms and appearance of acne during pregnancy until it subsides. 

    Don’t forget to use gentle skincare products to prevent further skin irritation during this time. With patience and a few simple steps, you can enjoy clearer skin during your entire pregnancy journey.

    Pregnancy can be a beautiful but challenging experience; take care of yourself using natural ingredients and keep your skin looking radiant throughout!

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