Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful periods that any woman goes through, but it varies from one woman to another. Some women appear at their best, while others suffer from skin problems, most notably acne. One in two women suffer from this problem, and women who have a medical history of pimples and skin problems are often more prone to acne during pregnancy. This problem usually appears in the first three months of pregnancy as a result of changes in hormone levels and increased secretion of fats in skin cells to maintain their elasticity, which leads to widening of pores and accumulation of fat, and thus the appearance of pimples. In this article, "Dalili Medical" presents to you the causes of acne during pregnancy and ways to treat it using natural recipes.

What is acne during pregnancy?

 

Pregnancy-related acne is the common term used to describe pimples that appear in pregnant women. The main reason for the appearance of these pimples is the major hormonal changes that occur in a woman's body during pregnancy, as increased levels of androgens lead to the appearance of acne.

When do facial pimples appear in pregnant women?

 

Acne usually starts to appear during the first months of pregnancy, as hormone levels are at their highest during the first trimester. After that, this level begins to decrease during the later stages of pregnancy, which may lead to a decrease in the appearance of acne. However, acne may continue to appear throughout pregnancy and even after delivery. It is reassuring that not having acne during the first trimester does not necessarily mean that the pregnant woman will suffer from it in the following stages.

**Risk factors for acne during pregnancy**

 

In addition to androgens, there are other factors that may increase the likelihood of acne in pregnant women, such as:

- Weakened immune system, which may contribute to the appearance of acne.

- Increased levels of stress hormones, which may lead to an outbreak of acne or worsen an existing condition.

**Does acne always mean pregnancy?**

 

Although many women may suffer from acne during pregnancy, this is not necessarily evidence of pregnancy. Acne can appear as a result of various hormonal fluctuations, and not just due to pregnancy. For example, it may occur as a result of polycystic ovary syndrome or hyperthyroidism.

**When do acne disappear in pregnant women?**

 

There is no specific answer about when acne will disappear in pregnant women, especially for those who suffer from chronic acne.

Is there a relationship between the appearance of acne in pregnant women and the gender of the fetus?

 

There is a common belief that there is a link between the appearance of acne in pregnant women and the gender of the fetus. It is said that pregnancy with a girl leads to the mother's skin becoming pale and acne appears, while pregnancy with a boy does not cause this.

However, scientifically, this belief is incorrect. The hormonal changes that lead to acne occur in most women regardless of the gender of the fetus.

Symptoms of acne during pregnancy?

 

Acne during pregnancy can appear in several forms, including:

- Redness

- Spots on the cheeks

- Inflamed spots around raised pimples, in addition to widespread spots

Acne during pregnancy is not just a cosmetic problem, but is often accompanied by itching and discomfort, which causes discomfort to the mother. Acne symptoms may begin in the second month of pregnancy, and may continue for several months after giving birth. Getting rid of acne takes patience and time, as there are no effective ways to prevent it. However, there are many medical and home remedies that can help relieve symptoms.

**Types of pregnancy and menstrual pills**

 

Whiteheads and blackheads are the most common types of acne, but other types of lesions can appear during pregnancy or during your menstrual cycle. Inflammatory lesions can lead to scarring on the skin. These types include:

**Papules** are small red bumps caused by inflammation of hair follicles. The pores become blocked, causing areas of skin to swell, resulting in pimples. These pimples usually contain pus as a result of the inflammation of the follicle cavity, and can become painful and hard. When this happens, the pimple turns into a cyst, in which case it is known as cystic acne.

**Nodules** Nodules appear as hard, painful lumps under the surface of the skin, and may appear in areas other than the face, such as the armpits and thighs. In some cases, women may develop thyroid nodules during pregnancy, and these nodules are often benign.

**Cystic acne** Cystic acne is considered one of the most serious types of acne, as it develops when cysts form deep in the skin. This type is caused by a combination of bacteria, oils, and dead skin cells that are trapped in the pores.

**Acne tests**

It usually requires some blood tests to determine the most appropriate treatment, as some medications may cause dry skin, bone and foot pain, in addition to mood swings.

Roaccutane is one of the most commonly used medications to treat severe acne, as it prevents the condition from worsening and reduces the production of natural oils and fats secreted by the skin. However, its prescription requires several precautionary tests to avoid common side effects.

The Tayeb application helps you conduct the necessary Roaccutane tests from your home, without having to spend long hours in laboratories or hospitals! All you have to do is book an appointment through the app, and a specialized medical team will come to you to conduct blood tests.

Taiyeb's Roaccutane tests include the following:

- Cholesterol test

- Triglyceride tests

- Liver enzymes and kidney function tests

- Complete blood count (CBC)

- Pregnancy test

- Blood sugar test

Taiyeb provides you with a variety of home medical services, whereBlood tests and examinations are performed by specialized nurses and health practitioners, to ensure accurate and professional medical services.

**Treatment of facial pimples for pregnant women with medications**

When looking for creams to treat facial pimples for pregnant women, there are several options that can be considered, whether they are available with or without a prescription.

Among the medications that can be safely used to treat facial pimples during pregnancy are:

- **Glycolic acid**: This acid is considered a beta hydroxy acid, as it helps reduce acne by removing dead skin cells that clog pores. Some doctors consider this option to be safer for pregnant women than salicylic acid.

- **Azelaic acid**: In addition to its effectiveness in treating acne, this acid helps treat hyperpigmentation resulting from inflammation, which reduces the likelihood of scarring after treating facial pimples.

- **Benzoyl peroxide**: This compound helps treat facial pimples by eliminating the bacteria that cause acne and cleaning the pores of excess oils and dead skin cells.

- **Topical creams containing clindamycin**: These creams are used as an effective treatment for acne, as they work to reduce inflammation and bacteria associated with it.

**Treating facial pimples for pregnant women with herbs and natural methods**

There are several natural options that can be used to get rid of facial pimples during pregnancy, including:

**Apple cider vinegar**A mixture of one tablespoon of unfiltered apple cider vinegar with three tablespoons of distilled water can be prepared. Then, a piece of cotton is soaked in this mixture and placed on the affected area of ​​the skin. Apple cider vinegar is characterized by its ability to form a toner rich in natural enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids, making it an effective option for treating facial pimples for pregnant women.

**Turmeric**Turmeric is a natural antiseptic that helps treat acne, as it contains antibacterial substances that help eliminate the germs that cause acne. Turmeric also works to enhance skin health and give it a beautiful glow.

**Method:**

1. Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little water to form a paste.

2. Apply the paste to the affected area.

3. Leave it for about an hour, then wash it off.

4. This treatment can be used once or twice daily for a few days.

**Tea Tree Oil** Tea tree oil is known for its effectiveness in fighting bacteria that may lead to the appearance of pimples, and it also helps reduce inflammation, which helps reduce swelling and redness of facial pimples.

Facial pimples can be treated using tea tree oil by following these steps:

1. Dilute tea tree oil by mixing one drop of it with a teaspoon of carrier oil.

2. Apply the diluted oil to the face using a cotton ball.

3. Repeat this process 1-2 times daily.

You can also use creams and lotions that contain tea tree oil.

**Jojoba Oil** Jojoba oil contains a group of active compounds that help reduce skin inflammation, which helps reduce redness and swelling around facial pimples. In addition, jojoba oil is characterized by its antibacterial properties.

To treat facial pimples with jojoba oil, you can mix a few drops of jojoba oil with a carrier oil, then apply a little of this mixture to the pimples using a cotton ball.

**. White toothpaste:** White toothpaste is an effective way to treat acne that may appear on the skin during pregnancy. Its antibacterial ingredients help eliminate the bacteria that cause pimples, and it also helps dry acne quickly.

**Method:**

1. Apply a small amount of white toothpaste to the pimples.

2. Leave it overnight, and if your skin is sensitive, you can leave it for only 5 minutes.

3. The next morning, wash it off with cold water.

4. Repeat this process daily until your skin is free of any traces of acne.

**Citrus fruits:** Citrus fruits, such as lemon, contain alpha hydroxy acid, which makes them useful in opening pores and getting rid of dead skin cells. To treat facial pimples during pregnancy using citrus juice, you can squeeze lemon or any other type of citrus, then apply the juice directly to the pimples using a cotton ball. Leave it for 10 minutes or until it dries, then rinse your face with cold water.

**Honey** Honey is an effective way to get rid of facial pimples in pregnant women, thanks to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, in addition to its ability to soothe the skin. It is recommended to first rinse the face with warm water before applying honey, then apply honey directly to the affected areas for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse the face again with warm water.

**Coconut Oil** It is preferable to use virgin coconut oil as an alternative to a moisturizer before bed to treat facial pimples in pregnant women. Coconut oil is characterized by its antibacterial and antifungal properties, and it also contributes to soothing the skin and is easily absorbed, making it a suitable option for those who want to treat facial pimples using natural ingredients.

**Oatmeal and Cucumber** The mixture consisting of oatmeal and cucumber is soothing and cooling for the skin, and can help treat acne in pregnant women. After mixing the ingredients, it is recommended to put them in the freezer, then apply them to the face and leave them for 10 to 15 minutes before washing them.

**Yogurt**Yogurt is a good choice for treating acne in pregnant women, as it has beneficial effects. It contains probiotics that enhance the activity of beneficial bacteria on the skin, in addition to lactic acid that helps gently exfoliate the face. Therefore, yogurt can be used to make a face mask and a natural mixture to treat facial pimples in pregnant women, twice a week.

**Baking soda**Baking soda is effective in absorbing excess oils on the skin of pregnant women, making it a good choice for reducing acne. It can be used by mixing a tablespoonMix baking soda with a tablespoon of water, then apply this mixture to each pimple and leave it until it dries, then wash the face.

However, it should be noted that baking soda may cause skin irritation and remove the natural oils necessary to protect the skin. Therefore, it is preferable to use it directly on the pimples only, instead of applying it to the entire affected area.

**Garlic**Garlic contains the compound allicin, which is characterized by its antimicrobial properties, which makes it useful in reducing infections associated with facial pimples and preventing their spread.

To benefit from garlic in treating facial pimples, it is recommended to follow the following steps:

1. Crush some garlic cloves.

2. Add the crushed garlic to a hot pot with 100 ml of olive oil.

3. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 3-5 minutes.

4. Leave the mixture to cool.

5. Filter the oil and then apply it to the affected areas using a cotton ball.

6. Leave it for 20 minutes and then wash the face.

General tips for skin care during pregnancy?

After learning about natural recipes for treating acne in pregnant women, here are a set of tips that will help you maintain healthy and pimple-free skin during pregnancy:

1. Avoid over-washing your face, as this may lead to increased sebum production to compensate for the dryness resulting from excessive washing.

2. Stay away from harsh exfoliation, and instead, use gentle exfoliation followed by applying a suitable moisturizer.

3. Do not touch pimples or try to squeeze them, as this may increase inflammation and increase the likelihood of scarring.

4. Follow a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, proteins and healthy fats such as avocados and nuts, and avoid sugars.

5. Try to stay away from sources of stress and anxiety.

6. Change your pillowcase and towels that you use regularly.

7. Avoid putting your hands on your face.

8. Try to use oil-free cosmetics.

9. Do not use any acne treatment products without consulting a doctor, as some products rich in vitamin A may be harmful to the fetus.

10. Use sunscreen creams, as they are essential for skin care, as they protect it from harmful sun rays.

**Cleanse the skin regularly:** Taking care of skin hygiene, especially in the case of oily skin, is essential to remove dirt and excess oils from the pores, which helps restore their natural size. It is preferable to use cleansers that contain astringents to enhance the clarity of the face, such as transparent soap (such as transparent glycerin), in addition to using light exfoliants to keep the skin clean and balanced, which reduces the possibility of pimples and acne, especially for oily skin.

**Moisturizing the skin:** Moisturizing is an essential step in the skin care routine for pregnant women, even for oily skin. Balanced hydration helps maintain the softness of the skin, prevents itching, dryness or discomfort, and protects against the appearance of signs of cracking and post-pregnancy signs, in addition to preventing wrinkles in the future.

**Adequate sleep:** Getting enough sleep is very important for pregnant women. It is best to organize sleeping hours in a quiet and comfortable environment to promote relaxation and ensure deep and beneficial sleep.

**Drinking water:** It is recommended to drink sufficient amounts of water as needed, given the importance of water in flushing toxins from the body.

**Light exercise:** It is recommended to walk for appropriate periods that suit the ability of the pregnant woman, while continuing to perform simple movements and light exercises that enhance blood circulation and support the flexibility of blood vessels, which contributes to improving the general condition of the body.

**Maintaining a healthy weight:** It is preferable to avoid weight gain by staying away from foods with a high fat content, and focusing on eating healthy foods such as vegetables and fruits in appropriate quantities.