Why do acne appear during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is the most wonderful time for many women. But over the course of 9 months, many changes occur in a woman’s body: her breasts enlarge, her tummy becomes round, and a spark is visible in her eyes. But besides the positive aspects, there are also less pleasant ones. For example, women watch with horror how every month hair condition worsens, pigment spots and even acne appear. Let's talk in more detail about the causes of acne during pregnancy and ways to combat this problem.

What causes acne during pregnancy?

There is an opinion that if a woman is pregnant with a girl, the baby gradually takes away the beauty of the mother. Accordingly, this explains the appearance of age spots and acne on the face. But doctors say that the gender of the unborn child does not affect the mother’s appearance in any way. The main indicator is hormonal levels, which actively change throughout the entire period of pregnancy. The higher a woman's progesterone levels, the more likely she is to experience worsening skin conditions and the appearance of acne.  

Progesterone plays an important role during pregnancy. It makes it possible to preserve the fetus and bear it for 9 months. It is for this reason that when there is a deficiency of the hormone, it is prescribed in the form of medications to normalize the hormonal balance. But in addition to its direct function, progesterone provokes the active production of subcutaneous sebum, which, in turn, is one of the root causes of acne formation.  

It is important to note that dehydration causes a deterioration in the condition of the skin and an increase in the number of acne. This is caused by an increase in hormone concentrations.

How to get rid of acne during pregnancy

Unfortunately, it is simply impossible to change hormonal levels during pregnancy in order to get rid of acne. Women just have to come to terms with this peculiarity of the body, provide maximum skin care and eliminate all factors that may contribute to the spread of acne. Not much is needed for this:

• Hydration. There is a stereotype that oily skin cannot be moisturized. This opinion is wrong!  All skin needs hydration, regardless of its type. It is recommended to choose high-quality cosmetics that will facilitate proper care.

• Cleanliness. It is necessary to monitor the cleanliness of the skin. The face should be cleansed regularly using non-aggressive products (no alcohol, fragrances, acids, etc.).
• No scrubbing! You should not use a scrub, regardless of whether it is purchased or prepared at home. Such products provoke the spread of acne throughout the face.
• Habits. To look beautiful, expectant mothers should pay attention to habits such as touching the face, squeezing pimples, etc. Dirty hands are the key to successful bacteria development and an increase in rashes.
• Water balance. As mentioned earlier, drinking enough fluid throughout the day reduces the concentration of progesterone.
• Vitamins. You don't have to buy synthetic vitamins. You can replenish your reserves by eating fruits, vegetables, cereals, meat, etc.

It will be possible to get rid of the rash only after hormonal levels are restored. For some women, this period occurs immediately after childbirth, for others, a month or two after the birth of the baby. But, as practice shows, once you feel the joy of motherhood, there is no time or energy left to worry about the rash. And with daily care, over time the hormonal levels will normalize and the rash will disappear on its own.