Acne is a skin condition that usually affects individuals at puberty. This means that it usually appears around the ages 13 years to 19 years. It is thought that one of the main causes of acne is hormonal imbalance and of course puberty is one of the main periods of hormone upheaval that we all experience.

It is the hormone disruption link to acne which sees it occur in pregnancy.

Acne during Pregnancy

Having acne during pregnancy can cause high levels of stress in some women, especially those who are already experiencing insecurities due to the changes occuring in their body.

If the acne is mild treatment in pregnancy may not be needed and this is just as well because many of the recognised acne treatments are not advised during pregnancy.

Following a healthy diet, rich in nutrients and high water content foods will help the mother retain her good health during pregnancy and will also help to minimise the symptoms of the acne she may be experiencing. Following a scrupulous hygiene practice will minimise the risk of infection setting in to open pustules, which then means the use of oral antibiotics can be avoided.

Topical solutions containing salicylic acids are not recommended for pregnant women. Even mild Accutane and Isotretinoin can have side effects for the foetus and may also affect women who are trying to get pregnant.

A safer topical acne treatment for use in pregnancy contains benzoyl peroxide as there are no known side effects for either mother or baby. The downside is that these preparations are not as quick to act as others so results are slower in coming.

It is essential that any woman who is pregnant, intends to become pregnant or is breastfeeding consults with her doctor before self treating acne at home.