how to get rid of pimples in pregnancy - #15409
I am 24 weeks pregnant and omg, my skin is going crazy! I’ve never dealt with acne like this before—like, I used to have clear skin and now it’s just full of pimples everywhere! I tried the usual washing my face and moisturizing, but it feels like nothing is helping. I’ve read stuff about how to get rid of pimples in pregnancy, but seriously, it’s so confusing. Some say don’t use certain products because they could harm the baby, but others suggest natural remedies that I’m not sure about. I’ve been using coconut oil and honey masks, but I don’t know if they really work for how to get rid of pimples in pregnancy. Sometimes my skin feels oily, and sometimes it’s dry, which makes me more frustrated! Also, do hormonal changes really mess with your skin this much? I never thought pregnancy would turn my face into a pizza place! I’m freaking out a little, and I just want to know what’s safe and effective? Anyone had experience with this? How to get rid of pimples in pregnancy sounds like a million-dollar question for me right now! Any tips, please?
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Doctors’ responses
Dealing with acne during pregnancy can be quite the challenge. Hormonal changes do mess with skin, stimulating oil glands and leading to breakouts that didn’t exist before. It’s common, but I understand how frustrating it can be. While treatment options can seem limited due to safety concerns for the developing baby, there are still effective ways to manage pimples.
First things first, avoid products containing retinoids and salicylic acid; while they’re popular acne-fighters, they aren’t considered safe during pregnancy. Sticking to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers can help prevent irritation and don’t over-dry your skin. Look for cleansers with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or glycolic acid in low concentrations, as these may be safe under your doctor’s guidance.
Natural remedies like coconut oil and honey masks have anecdotal support but aren’t a strong evidence-based solution for acne. Coconut oil might make things worse by clogging pores; try other options like dabbling tea tree oil or aloe vera on inflamed areas. Make sure you’re washing your face twice a day and keeping hair and hands off your face to reduce bacterial transfer.
Use a good non-comedogenic moisturizer to balance out the dryness without adding excess oil. Avoid heavy makeup, or at least ensure it’s labeled as non-comedogenic. Sometimes, proper hydration and a balanced diet low in sugar might contribute positively, but it’s not a standalone solution.
If nothing seems to help, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist with experience in pregnancy-safe acne treatments. They might recommend light therapies or prescription options that are safe to use. Red-flag symptoms like severe inflammation or infection warrant immediate medical attention, though these are rare. Remember, never start or stop any treatment without seeking medical advice specific to your circumstances.
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