Acne in pregnancy: why it appears and how to take care of the skin during the nine months

Acne in pregnancy can appear in the first few months, but this is not a reality for all pregnant women. Still, it is a problem reported by many moms. Acne can lower self-esteem and even cause discomfort in the daily life of pregnant women.

If you are pregnant and pimples have started to appear, here are some valuable tips to overcome this obstacle.

Pimples in pregnancy? Why do they appear?

Acne in pregnancy, also known as gestational acne, happens due to the hormonal changes a woman goes through during this period. To receive a baby, the body transforms, and one of these changes is hormones.

The levels of estrogen, progesterone, beta-HCG and prolactin increase considerably during pregnancy, which can lead to a series of changes in relation to the appearance of acne in pregnancy and also other aesthetic changes, such as stretch marks, the appearance of melasma gravidarum, in hair and nails, and sebaceous and sweat glands.

Pregnancy

In the case of acne during pregnancy, it appears due to the accumulation of oil produced by the sebaceous glands, which instead of being eliminated through the pores, clogs the follicle, leading to the appearance of the pimple.

These acnes are usually closed, inflamed nodules. They are called closed pimples, which appear as pustules, that is, small elevations in the region. Pimples, which are often painful, can carry pus in the center of the lesion, due to contamination from bacteria present on the skin.

Women with oilier skin tend to have more acne during pregnancy. Young people and those who already had pimples during adolescence are also more susceptible to acne during pregnancy. But it's not a rule!

Where does pregnancy acne appear most often?
  • Face (near the jaw, side of the mouth and close to the hairline);

  • Neck;

  • Lap;

  • Shoulders;

  • Glutes.

Pregnancy acnes
How to prevent and treat acne in pregnancy?

The main tip is to take care of the skin daily with specific products, indicated by a dermatologist. It is important not to use products or medicines on your own, as some of the most common treatments for acne are not recommended for pregnant women, due to the active ingredients used in them. With that being said, watch out!

To prevent acne, pregnant women can adopt a facial care routine. But, we emphasize again: it is essential to consult a trusted dermatologist. The professional analyzes each skin and each case individually.

Maintain a skin care routine

The skin care routine must be constant. The tip is to wash your face with cold or lukewarm water twice a day. In general, it is recommended to use sulfur-based soaps, lotions and creams for daily application to control oiliness.

Sunscreen is essential when using anti-acne products, as they can sensitize the skin. In addition, sunscreen prevents possible stains on the skin, as many pregnant women are prone to melasma.

Pregnancy practing pilates

If you can't do without makeup on a daily basis, choose ones that are appropriate for your skin type, and of course, for acne-prone skin.

Lastly, it is common, after pregnancy, with the normalization of hormone levels, for acne to improve.

Remembering that acne prevention, whether at any stage of life, starts with food. It is ideal to maintain a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, have a good night of sleep, as well as use sunscreen daily and take good care of your skin.