fine china - Pregnancy

 Pregnancy - Acne Treatment During Pregnancy

Some of the medications that are to be avoided during pregnancy are: Vitamin A derivatives, Tetracyclin Antibiotics, Hormones and Salicylic acid preparations. Acne in pregnancy is very common, whether you have previously had acne or not. It is most common in the first three months while the levels of hormones are increasing. Progesterone is more androgenic (male hormone-like) than oestrogen and causes the secretions of your skin glands to increase, which can lead to more acne

Pregnancy sometimes brings on acne or makes it worse. Higher levels of hormones called androgens can prompt the sebaceous glands in your skin to get bigger and boost production of an oily substance called sebum.

This extra sebum, combined with the shed skin cells that line your hair follicles, blocks your pores, creating an environment in which bacteria can rapidly multiply. All this eventually leads to the inflammation and skin eruptions of acne.

Always talk with your health care provider before taking any type of medication for your pimples. Some medications that you will definitely want to stay away from include:

* Tetracycline (an oral antibiotic that has been linked to poor bone growth and discolored teeth in babies)
* Salicyclic Acid (a common ingredient in over-the-counter acne treatments)

* Tretinon (sold under the brand name Retin-A)

* Isotrentinoin (sold under the brand name Accutane)

* Pat your skin dry and within five minutes after showering put a layer of oil-free moisturizer on your skin.
*Take extra care not to rub near your outbreak as it will smear the bacteria and you will experience more zits.

Pregnancy Skin Care Tips

Fortunately there are steps you can take to keep your skin in tiptop shape even with acne during pregnancy. While you may not avoid acne during pregnancy, you can do your best to maintain a healthy pregnancy glow. Here are some tips for maintaining your best appearance during pregnancy.

1. Always get plenty of sleep. Getting enough sleep will allow you to look refreshed and will help keep your skin healthy and less wrinkle prone.
2. Use sunscreen religiously. Even if you don't suffer from melasma, your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy. You should always use a moisturizer or sun block with an SPF 15 or higher.

Is there any way I can prevent acne during pregnancy?

No. You can’t predict it and you can’t prevent it. In most cases, the skin clears up after the first trimester, or after giving birth. In the meantime, there are things you can do to take care of your skin safely.