The Natural Approach to Treating Pregnancy Acne

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Everyone talks about the enviable “pregnancy glow” but what they don’t mention that it’s most likely sweat, which quickly develops into a nasty breakout. More than 3 million women in the US suffer from pregnancy-induced acne due to the increased hormone levels they experience in their first trimester, which causes increases their skin’s production of natural oils. Those who suffer from hormonal acne or breakout primarily during their menstrual cycle are even more likely to experience it in their pregnancy.

With most over-the-counter medications deemed unsafe for unborn children, pregnant woman have a difficult time finding products that are safe enough for them and their babies. Here are some helpful holistic and healthy approaches to the dealing with the dreaded pregnancy acne.

Do’s and Don’t’s

  • Avoid over cleansing your face. Doing so will overstimulate your oil glands and cause an even nastier breakout..

  • To keep your skin healthy, eat foods that are full of vitamin A such as sweet potatoes, spinach, mangos, and watermelon. Avoid supplements.

  • Wash your face twice a day and after heavy sweating.

  • Shampoo regularly and keep all hair products (mousse, hairspray, etc.) away from the hairline.

  • Change your pillowcases every two weeks.

  • Be gentle. Your skin is extra sensitive during pregnancy and you’ll strip your skin of natural moisture if you scrub too aggressively.

  • Read the labels. Stick to products that are oil-free, alcohol-free, and non-acnegenic.

At-Home-Remedies

A great trick for oily skin is apple cider vinegar. Soak some of it onto a cotton pad and lightly apply it to the skin and you’ll see a more matte finish to your skin.

If you’re experiencing red, irritated skin, I suggest you try his homemade face mask from Wholefully! Their recipe uses cucumbers, which provides a cooling effect and can help absorb the oils in your skin’s pores.

You’ll need:

  • 1 cucumber, sliced

  • 1/4 cup of plain yogurt

  • 2 tbsp. honey

  • 1/4 - 1 cup of oats (depending on water content of cucumber)

  1. In a blender, pulse together yogurt and cucumber to form a paste. Pour into a bowl.

  2. Add honey and oats (1/4 cup at a time) until the mixture forms a thick paste.

  3. Give another quick spin in the blender to chop oats.

  4. Pop in the freezer for 5-10 minutes to chill and solidify.

  5. Spread on the face, paying special attention to on and around the eyes, and let sit for 5-10 minutes.

  6. Wash off with warm water.

Treatments

Most facials are safe for those expecting, including microdermabrasion, aqua facials, and even laser. What you should avoid are those that include acid, such as chemical peels, because it is absorbed through the whole body. SkinSpaMED also provides top-of-the-line customized facials that will have can help pregnant women regain their healthy, glowing complexion. To schedule an appointment, or to learn more about how these facials can help you, visit the SkinSpaMED website or call our Dallas spa at (972) 392-3895, or Colleyville at (817) 281-8181.