Pregnant and suddenly full of zits? It’s not uncommon for women to experience acne from pregnancy - especially during the first and second trimesters.
In fact, more than half of pregnant people can expect their skin to breakout. Read on for more information on what to do when pregnant with acne.
What Causes Pregnancy Acne?
Pregnancy acne develops because of changes in hormones which cause the glands in the skin to overproduce an oily substance called sebum.
These acne-causing secretions of oil can clog pores and build up bacteria, leading to inflammation and breakouts.
Women who suffer from acne during their menstrual cycle are more likely to develop acne during pregnancy.
Natural Remedies for Pregnancy Acne
When you’re pregnant, it’s more important than ever to avoid prescription and over-the-counter treatments as these come with a high risk of birth defects.
Fortunately, there are natural remedies you can incorporate into your daily skincare routine to control your breakouts.
Wash Gently
Taking care of your skin is the first step to combating acne. We recommend gently washing your face twice a day with a mild soap and lukewarm water. Take care not to use hot water as this can further aggravate your skin.
Be gentle with yourself and avoid any harsh scrubbing. When you’re finished, be sure to pat dry with a towel instead of rubbing.
Finally, make sure that you don’t over wash as this can remove the skin’s natural moisture and increase the skin’s oil production which will lead to more breakouts.
Keep your Skin Hydrated
Moisturize your skin with our Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream. It’s made with just six ingredients – all natural! The Manuka honey has antibacterial and antiseptic properties and Manuka oil is more potent than tea tree oil when battling bacteria. This makes it a perfect solution reducing inflammation and fighting acne.
Eat Healthy
You are what you eat! It goes without saying that you should strive to maintain a healthy, balanced diet for your overall well-being. A nutritious diet consists of whole grains, lean sources of protein, colourful fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats such as nuts, avocado, and salmon.
On the other hand, you should avoid consuming processed foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats typically found in baked goods or fried food.
Finally, don’t forget to drink plenty of fresh water as this will help flush out toxins and help clear the skin. It’s also a much healthier alternative to carbonated beverages or caffeine!
Find Time to Relax
Life can be pretty busy - especially when you have a little one on the way! - but you should always prioritize your self care. As stress is a common trigger of acne breakouts, you should find some time each day to rest and relax.
Even just fifteen minutes of meditation can do wonders! If you’re not into meditating, you can draw, read a book, indulge in a soothing bath, or listen to some calming music.
Watch What Touches your Face
No matter how tempting it may seem, scratching, picking, or popping acne sores should be avoided at all costs! Not only can this further irritate your skin, but it can also lead to scarring.
You should also do your best to keep your hair away from your face, avoid touching your face unnecessarily, and ensure that you change your pillowcases and towels regularly. If wearing makeup, make sure to read labels before applying to make sure the ingredients are oil-free and non-comedogenic.
Protect your Face
If you’re struggling with ‘maskne’, you’ll love our Remedywear™ Washable Face Mask. Soft and soothing, it’s embedded with zinc which has anti-bacterial, anti-microbial properties. This breathable mask is the perfect solution for those with sensitive skin or acne.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/acne-remedies#1
https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/whose-body/acne.aspx
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/acne-during-pregnancy-treatments-causes#1
