Pregnancy Acne Treatment

Your body undergoes many changes during pregnancy to support the development of a new baby. One of the more frustrating changes can be the appearance of acne. While many people associate acne with adolescence, it can affect individuals of all ages, especially during pregnancy when hormones fluctuate. These hormonal shifts, particularly the increase in progesterone, can cause your body to produce more natural oils, or sebum, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Acne is very common during pregnancy, with more than half of pregnant women experiencing breakouts. Additionally, if you had acne during adolescence, you’re more likely to experience it again during pregnancy. Although acne can be frustrating, it should be treated carefully with proper medical guidance to ensure the safety of both you and your baby. With over 25 years of experience in medical and cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Michele Green is an expert in acne treatment and sees many pregnant patients at her private NYC dermatology practice for pregnancy-related acne.

Acne blemishes can be frustrating and uncomfortable, making you feel self-conscious about your appearance. While there are many common treatments for acne, managing acne during pregnancy can be especially difficult on your own. Some treatments, medications, and skincare ingredients are unsafe for the developing fetus and may increase the risk of birth defects. However, many effective acne treatments are safe to use while pregnant. It’s essential to find an experienced dermatologist who can develop a personalized treatment plan to address your hormonal acne safely. When you consult with Dr. Green, you can trust that your pregnancy acne treatment will be both safe and effective, helping you look and feel your best again.

Expert, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has over 25 years of experience treating patients with acne at her private practice on the Upper East Side. Dr. Green has led advancements in cosmetic dermatology, caring for patients worldwide who struggle with acne and acne scars. She skillfully uses the latest technology and innovative treatments to provide her patients with natural-looking, long-lasting results, helping them look and feel their best. Recognized for her dedication and expertise, Dr. Green is consistently voted one of New York’s top dermatologists by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, and New York Magazine. She values building strong relationships with her patients, taking the time to understand each individual’s skin issues and tailoring their treatment plans to meet their unique needs and goals. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will recommend a personalized mix of topical and oral medications, specially formulated skincare products, and in-office procedures to safely address your skin concerns and help you achieve clear, radiant skin.

What causes acne?

Acne is a skin condition caused by many factors, including hormones, genetics, and excess sebum and dirt trapped in pores. During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations often increase the likelihood of acne breakouts, which can also happen during menopause and the menstrual cycle. Changes in hormone levels and various activities can stimulate sebaceous glands, leading to clogged pores and acne lesions. Bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes can infect these clogged follicles, resulting in inflammation. Sebum, a natural oil produced by sebaceous glands, helps keep the skin moisturized and healthy. However, excess sebum, combined with dead skin cells and bacteria, can cause inflammation, redness, and pain. While many associate acne with adolescence, it can affect people of all ages. Acne can occur anywhere sebaceous glands are present, most commonly on the face, chest, and back. If left untreated or poorly managed, acne can cause permanent scars or hyperpigmentation, which are often harder to treat than the original breakout. If you are experiencing active breakouts, it is important to see a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green promptly to prevent scarring and achieve clear, glowing skin.

When should you consult a dermatologist for acne during pregnancy?

Acne varies from person to person and may require different treatments depending on its type. However, the Acne varies from person to person and may require different treatments depending on its type. However, the treatment of acne during pregnancy should always be discussed with a dermatologist as soon as possible, since many key ingredients in over-the-counter products are unsafe for babies and should be avoided when pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also important to see a dermatologist when you first develop acne, because inflammation and lesions can lead to scarring, which is much more difficult to treat than the acne itself. When you see Dr. Green, she will coordinate with your OB-GYN to develop a skincare plan that safely and effectively treats your acne and helps you reach your aesthetic goals.

Forms of Acne

Acne can take different forms, and understanding these forms is key to proper treatment. Depending on the type of acne, you might need a specific anti-inflammatory or antibiotic medication, which may not be effective for other types of lesions. The three main types of acne are:

Comedonal acne

Comedonal acne is a non-inflammatory type of acne characterized by skin texture irregularities. It occurs when pores are clogged solely with oil and dead skin cells. Comedones are classified into two types: whiteheads and blackheads. Whiteheads are hair follicles blocked with sebum and dead skin cells that are closed off from the environment, appearing as skin-colored bumps. Blackheads are clogged hair follicles that are open to the air. Exposure to air causes the contents of a blackhead to oxidize, darkening it. Common sites for comedonal acne include the forehead, chin, and jawline. It can also appear on the back, chest, neck, and shoulders, and these areas can be treated similarly. Avoid squeezing comedones, as this can introduce bacteria, leading to infections and scars.

Inflammatory Acne

Inflammatory acne happens when comedonal acne gets infected with bacteria, causing red, swollen lesions. There are two types of inflammatory acne: papules and pustules. Acne papules are inflamed bumps that can be red, brown, purple, or skin-colored. The key difference between papules and pustules is that pustules contain pus, while papules do not. Pus forms when white blood cells gather to fight an infection. If you have pustules, avoid trying to pop them yourself, as the bacteria-filled pus can spread and lead to more infection and scarring. These papules and pustules can be especially painful because of the bacterial infection and swelling.

Cystic Acne

Cystic acne happens when clogged hair follicles infected with bacteria become trapped beneath the skin, leading to red, swollen, painful acne cysts. Typically, these cysts are filled with pus as white blood cells try to eliminate the bacteria. Because cystic acne lesions develop below the skin’s surface, they are more likely to cause scars, which can be more difficult to treat than the acne itself. Choosing the right acne products and medications is crucial for battling cystic acne and clearing the infection beneath the skin.

What causes acne during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, reproductive hormones such as estrogen and progesterone increase significantly to support the developing baby and prepare the mother’s body for childbirth. While this process is natural, elevated hormone levels can affect acne development. Specifically, increased progesterone can stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, often called the “pregnancy glow.” Although this rise in sebum—a naturally occurring oil on the skin—may make some people look more moisturized and plump, it can also clog pores and lead to breakouts in others.

When does pregnancy acne start to show?

Pregnancy acne occurs due to increased androgens, especially progesterone, during pregnancy. These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to more oil production. This hormonal shift happens shortly after conception as the body prepares for the developing fetus. While the initial rise in sebum might give your face a moisturized glow, pregnancy acne usually appears after six weeks in the first trimester because the excess oil begins clogging pores, causing inflammation in the skin. However, acne can develop at any point during pregnancy, and the timing varies from person to person. Regardless of the cause, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, to treat acne and prevent scarring or hyperpigmentation safely.

How to treat acne during pregnancy:

During pregnancy, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider to ensure all ingredients are safe for both you and your baby. When acne worsens during pregnancy, the first step is to speak with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green in NYC. Treatment options may include topical acne medications and in-office procedures such as HydraFacials, chemical peels, and acne surgery, depending on the severity of the breakout and the type of acne lesions. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Green has helped many patients with pregnancy-related acne and will coordinate with your OB-GYN to develop a personalized and safe plan for your baby.

8 months before and after acne treatment

Pregnancy-Safe Acne Treatments:

If you want to learn how to treat acne during pregnancy, the first step is to consult a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Green specializes in prescribing safe and effective acne treatments for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) offers guidelines on the safety of various over-the-counter and prescription acne treatments. Using these guidelines, Dr. Green creates a personalized treatment plan for managing acne during pregnancy. Additionally, while some products are safe in small amounts, larger doses or prolonged use can be harmful to your baby. That’s why consulting with Dr. Green before using any acne products is essential. She will collaborate with your OB-GYN to develop a customized acne treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Best Topical Skin Care for Pregnancy Acne:

Azelaic Acid — Because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, azelaic acid is a common ingredient in many topical acne treatments. It encourages cell turnover, promotes the growth of new skin cells, and fights bacteria that can infect hair follicles. As a result, it can reduce the symptoms of existing breakouts and help prevent future acne outbreaks. Researchers have shown that azelaic acid is safe to use during pregnancy and does not harm the fetus.

Topical Antibiotics — Clindamycin and erythromycin are among the most frequently prescribed topical antibiotics for treating acne during pregnancy. These antibiotics work by targeting and killing the bacteria responsible for infection in clogged pores. These ointments are best used as short-term spot treatments for active acne, as no research has documented the effects of long-term use.

Glycolic acid — Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin by removing excess oil, debris, and dead skin cells from clogged pores. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, glycolic acid products can be used during pregnancy. However, before using any glycolic acid, it is best to consult with your dermatologist or obstetrician to ensure it is safe to use during pregnancy.

Salicylic Acid — Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that works as a chemical exfoliant to clear pores. As a BHA, salicylic acid loosens the debris blocking the pores, making it easier to wash away. It is commonly found in over-the-counter products made for acne treatment. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), salicylic acid is generally considered safe when used in moderation. It is important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or obstetrician before using products containing salicylic acid.

Benzoyl peroxide — Benzoyl peroxide eliminates bacteria in papules and pustules and dries the skin to reduce sebum production. It is found in many over-the-counter acne products, so it’s important always to check your skincare ingredient labels. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, benzoyl peroxide is considered safe when used in small amounts. However, it’s essential to consult a board-certified dermatologist or obstetrician before using products that contain benzoyl peroxide.

23 year old – Acne treatment, 3 months

Oral Acne Treatments in Pregnancy:

If you have severe acne that doesn’t respond to topical treatments, a short course of an oral antibiotic might be recommended. According to a review published in the Journal of American Family Medicine (doi: 10.3122/jabfm.2016.02.150165), some oral antibiotics, like Erythromycin or Cephalexin, are generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, medications such as Tetracyclines, Streptomycin, and Kanamycin are not recommended because they may cause congenital disabilities. When using oral antibiotics for pregnancy-related acne, it is best to limit their use to a short time to avoid potential side effects. Always consult your board-certified obstetrician and dermatologist to determine which antibiotics are safe for you during pregnancy.

Choosing the Best Skincare for Pregnancy Acne:

The first step in any effective skincare routine is washing your face to remove dirt, debris, or sebum from the surface. Pregnant patients generally benefit most from a gentle cleanser that removes buildup without irritating the skin. Patients should avoid cleansers containing physical exfoliants, as harsh scrubbing can damage the skin’s natural moisture barrier and worsen acne breakouts. Dr. Green’s proprietary skincare line, MGSKINLABs, features a Gentle Cleanser that effectively removes excess sebum, dead skin cells, and impurities without irritating.

A good moisturizer is a crucial part of any skincare routine, especially for pregnant individuals with acne-prone skin. Acne breakouts might actually get worse if you skip moisturizer, as dryness can weaken the skin’s natural protective barrier and exacerbate the acne. Many people with acne-prone skin prefer to use a lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won’t clog their pores. MGSKINLABs Ultimately Sheer Hydrating Lotion is an excellent choice for acne because it is rich in aloe and rosewater, providing instant hydration without feeling heavy or clogging pores. Plus, the Ultimately Sheer Lotion has an improved pore-regulating formula that helps control oil production, reduce excess sebum, and leaves a matte finish.

Some patients may be tempted to skip sunscreen because many sunscreens feel greasy. However, sunscreen is a vital part of a proper skincare routine since it shields the skin from harmful UV rays and helps preserve the skin’s barrier. Choosing a non-comedogenic sunscreen is best for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABs, offers a non-comedogenic Hydrating Sunscreen with SPF 50, which combines moisturizer and SPF in one product. This type of sunscreen is ideal for maintaining hydrated, radiant skin while protecting against UV rays that can cause skin cancer and premature aging. When you consult with Dr. Green, you will have the opportunity to discuss a suitable skincare routine, including which products to include or avoid.

In-office Acne Treatments:

HydraFacials

A HydraFacial is a popular treatment for acne breakouts at Dr. Green’s office. It’s a three-step, medical-grade procedure that cleanses, exfoliates, and nourishes the skin. The treatment uses patented vortex fusion technology to remove sebum, dead skin cells, and debris that can cause acne. After cleansing and exfoliating, antioxidants, vitamins, and peptides are infused deeply into the pores to strengthen the skin’s protective barrier. Special boosters, tailored to your skin’s needs, can be applied after exfoliation to target specific skin concerns. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will evaluate your skin type and condition to choose the most suitable booster. HydraFacials can be performed every two weeks or monthly to help prevent acne breakouts and keep your skin healthy and clear.

Acne surgery

Some acne breakouts and cysts require a traditional removal method. For more severe cases of acne, surgery might be an option. The procedure involves opening the pores and extracting dead skin cells, excess oil, debris, and other impurities trapped inside. This is followed by injections of intralesional cortisone to reduce inflammation, accelerate healing, and help prevent acne scars. Acne surgery is most effective when combined with topical antibiotics to reduce bacteria levels that cause acne. Additionally, low-dose steroid solutions are often injected into the acne lesions to decrease inflammation and promote healing.

When does pregnancy acne improve?

Pregnancy acne usually lasts as long as you are pregnant and hormone levels stay high, but this can vary for each person. In early pregnancy, high levels of progesterone help regulate the menstrual cycle, prepare the uterus for pregnancy, and support a healthy pregnancy. Many women find their acne persists through the first and second trimesters and starts to improve in the third trimester. Some women experience acne throughout pregnancy and see significant improvement after giving birth. Others may have persistent acne even after delivery and while breastfeeding, with it finally clearing up a few months postpartum. The length of acne varies from person to person, and there is no specific timeline for pregnancy-related acne. Differences in improvement may come from ongoing hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While acne should lessen as hormone levels normalize, it’s important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, if you’re struggling to see any improvements in managing your pregnancy acne safely.

Acne Treatments that are not approved During Pregnancy:

Many common oral medications and Many common oral medications and skin care products for acne might not be safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Certain ingredients can enter your bloodstream and the baby’s, potentially leading to birth defects. It is crucial to consult your obstetrician and a qualified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green, before starting any acne treatment, so you know which medications to avoid.

Topical Retinoids – Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin (Retin-A), adapalene (Differin), and tazarotene (Tazorac), are commonly used to treat acne vulgaris; however, they are not recommended during pregnancy. Since they are derived from vitamin A, retinol treatments work by exfoliating the skin and reducing excess sebum to help clear hair follicles. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, when retinoids are absorbed through the skin and enter the fetal bloodstream, they can cause birth defects, so they should be avoided during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Other common brand names for topical tretinoin that are unsafe during pregnancy include Refissa, Renova, and Avita. Over-the-counter retinol products should also be avoided.

Isotretinoin – Oral isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane or by its brand names Absorica, Claravis, Zenatane, or Amnesteem, is an FDA-approved treatment for severe, cystic, or scarring acne. Like tretinoin, isotretinoin is derived from vitamin A and is used when antibiotics and topical creams have not effectively cleared acne. The federal government regulates this medication because of the serious birth defects it can cause if taken. Conversely, pregnant women or those who become pregnant while using Accutane should not take it. Isotretinoin should never be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it can be harmful if absorbed into the fetal bloodstream.

Spironolactone – Spironolactone, also called Aldactone, is a medication that reduces the production of androgen hormones, which can cause the skin to become more oily. While spironolactone effectively treats hormonal acne, it has been shown to cause birth defects in a developing fetus. Because of this, it should not be used if you are pregnant.

Oral Tetracycline – Tetracyclines are a class of antibiotics that are unsafe to use during pregnancy. Two commonly prescribed tetracyclines for moderate to severe acne are doxycycline and minocycline. Their anti-inflammatory properties typically help decrease acne breakouts. However, both have been associated with birth defects such as inhibited bone growth and should not be taken during pregnancy.

How common is pregnancy acne?

Pregnancy acne is very common, with over 50% of expectant mothers experiencing it during their first and second trimesters. Although those who had acne in their adolescence tend to be more susceptible to pregnancy acne, there is no definitive link, and pregnancy acne can affect anyone.

Why is my pregnancy acne so bad?

Pregnancy acne can appear anywhere on the body as whiteheads, blackheads, bumps, pustules, or cysts. The increase in acne during pregnancy is caused by rising hormone levels, such as progesterone, which leads to more sebum production in the skin. Your pregnancy-related acne might be worse than your usual breakouts because excess sebum can clog your pores and cause inflammation. While hormonal changes during pregnancy can be more difficult to manage as part of a healthy pregnancy, you can adjust your skincare routine. For those with dry to normal skin before pregnancy, using the same products on your face during pregnancy might become more challenging. To help reduce oil and prevent pore clogging, choose skincare products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic. Some ingredients considered safe to use during pregnancy include azelaic acid, clindamycin, erythromycin, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. Before making any changes to your skincare routine, be sure to consult with a board-certified dermatologist and OB-GYN to determine which ingredients are safe for you and your baby.

When is acne more intense during pregnancy?

Acne during pregnancy varies from woman to woman. Still, it is usually most intense in the first and second trimesters and tends to improve in the third trimester as hormone levels stabilize. Since increased progesterone levels cause acne due to conception, the drop in hormones after childbirth often helps reduce it. While experiences differ and some women may have pregnancy acne for a shorter or longer period, it’s important to remember that pregnancy acne is temporary. If you are experiencing pregnancy acne and are unsure of the safest way to treat it, the best first step is to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, to determine the most appropriate treatment options.

What is the best treatment for pregnancy acne?

Many pregnant women with acne wonder what the safest and most effective treatment options are. Navigating this question can be complicated for several reasons. Most importantly, you need to know which treatments could potentially cause birth defects in your baby. Additionally, different types and severities of acne require different approaches to reduce breakouts. The key to finding the best treatment for your pregnancy-related acne is to consult with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, to develop a safe and effective plan. Instead of trying various over-the-counter options that may not be effective or safe, it’s best to speak with Dr. Green, who can recommend products and treatments that will help you achieve clear skin without risking your health or your baby’s.

Acne treatment before and after

Other Pregnancy Acne Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Why do I get pregnancy acne?

Developing acne during pregnancy is very common, with more than fifty percent of Developing acne during pregnancy is very common, with more than fifty percent of pregnant women experiencing it at some point. Usually, acne appears around the sixth week of pregnancy and persists through the first trimester as your body produces more progesterone. While progesterone is essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy, it also stimulates extra sebum production. As progesterone levels increase during pregnancy, sebum can also increase, leading to clogged pores and the development or worsening of acne. Additionally, having a history of acne or experiencing breakouts at the start of your menstrual cycle can raise the risk of developing acne during pregnancy.

Will Pregnancy acne clear up?

Yes! Pregnancy acne is temporary and caused by a sudden increase in hormones, which boosts sebum production in the skin. As a result, excess sebum can lead to more clogged pores. If you are experiencing acne breakouts postpartum, it is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green to discuss treatments that can help manage your acne and achieve clear skin.

Will pregnancy help acne?

Some people might notice improved skin during pregnancy, but no scientific studies prove that pregnancy specifically helps with acne. During pregnancy, increased sebum production can lead to a “pregnancy glow,” characterized by radiant and luminous skin due to hormonal changes that boost sebum, along with increased blood flow that gives the skin a rosy, flushed look and a healthier, shinier appearance. If you’re dealing with acne, whether you’re pregnant or not, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green to find the most suitable treatment for you to prevent acne scars and achieve clear skin.

When does acne start in pregnancy?

The severity and timing of outbreaks can vary from person to person. During the first trimester, significant hormone fluctuations occur in the body. These changes, especially in the hormone progesterone, can lead to increased oil, or sebum, production on the skin, which may clog pores and cause acne breakouts. For women experiencing acne during the first trimester, breakouts usually start to appear around six weeks into pregnancy. Acne may improve for some women during the second trimester and flare up again in the third, due to higher levels of the hormone androgen, which increases sebum production. No matter when your pregnancy-related acne begins, Dr. Green offers a variety of safe and effective treatment options.

Where is pregnancy acne usually located?

Although pregnancy acne can develop wherever sebaceous glands are present, it most commonly appears on the face, upper back, chest, and arms. These areas have a high concentration of pilosebaceous units, which include hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Since acne results from oil and dead skin cells clogging pores, it is more likely to occur in regions with more oil-producing glands. Therefore, the chance that hair follicles across the face, back, chest, and arms could become clogged by a higher-than-normal amount of sebum is greater.

Where is pregnancy acne on the face?

While pregnancy acne can appear anywhere on the face, it is most noticeable in areas where hormonal acne usually occurs, such as the lower face and jawline. Hormonal acne often develops on the lower part of the face, especially around the jawline and chin, because the sebaceous glands there are more sensitive to androgen hormones. Even at normal hormone levels, these hormones can cause excess sebum (oil) production, which can clog pores and lead to inflammation. The sebaceous glands on the lower face, particularly around the chin and jawline, are especially susceptible to hormonal effects. Excess hormones stimulate these oil glands, many of which are located in the chin area.

Is sulfur acne treatment safe in pregnancy?

Sulfur has been used to treat acne for centuries. It possesses antibacterial properties that can eliminate the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, which causes acne. Sulfur also provides anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce redness and swelling, especially in pregnancy-related acne. It helps regulate oil production, which can be beneficial for those experiencing pregnancy acne, as oil production often increases during this time. Sulfur-based acne treatments have been used for decades without reports of adverse effects during pregnancy. Because of this, many dermatologists feel comfortable prescribing topical sulfur treatments.

Is pregnancy acne painful?

During pregnancy, the most common type of acne is nodular acne, which is characterized by redness, swelling, and inflammation beneath the skin. Nodular acne develops when hair follicles become blocked by excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to inflammation and deep nodules that can be painful. For painful pregnancy acne, a good treatment option is Acne Surgery, which removes sebum and dirt from deep within the pores. The lesion is then injected with a corticosteroid to promote healing and prevent scarring. This procedure can immediately reduce the appearance and size of the acne and lessen any painful nodules.

Is pregnancy acne normal?

Yes, pregnancy acne is common among many expecting mothers, affecting over 50% of them. It occurs due to hormonal fluctuations that stimulate the sebaceous oil glands in your skin during pregnancy. This increase in breakouts is temporary and typically subsides once hormone levels stabilize, especially in the third trimester and postpartum. If you continue to experience acne after pregnancy, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, to find the most effective treatment for clear skin.

Which treatments and skin care can help with acne while pregnant?

Remember that pregnancy acne is temporary and caused by increased androgens your body produces. Following a careful skincare routine or removing certain ingredients from your current regimen is crucial to managing pregnancy acne. It’s easy to start using ingredients that cause dryness or are too harsh, which can actually worsen irritation and breakouts as your skin produces even more oil to compensate. Safe and effective ingredients during pregnancy include azelaic acid, clindamycin, erythromycin, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. HydraFacials and acne surgery, along with the right skincare routine, are also safe and effective for pregnancy-related acne, helping to clear dirt and debris from your pores. Navigating many over-the-counter and in-office cosmetic treatments can be overwhelming. Still, the key is to consult an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green to develop a safe plan for you and your baby.

What makes pregnancy acne worse?

Acne during pregnancy usually happens due to increased sebum production caused by hormonal changes. In addition to hormonal fluctuations, certain lifestyle habits can make acne worse. Patients who exercise and sweat frequently are more likely to develop acne during pregnancy. Sweat trapped under workout clothes can clog pores, trapping oil, dirt, and debris, which can worsen existing acne or cause new spots. It’s important to remove dirty clothes and wash your skin right after exercising to help prevent acne. Patients who regularly use harsh physical exfoliants may see their acne worsen because these exfoliants strip the skin of its natural moisture barrier, leading to more sebum production. Some skincare products can be oily and clog pores, so choose products labeled as non-comedogenic, which are less likely to clog pores. Additionally, popping pimples can increase breakouts, as pus and bacteria from one lesion can spread and infect other clogged pores. If you’re experiencing pregnancy acne, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, who has the knowledge and experience to treat your acne safely and effectively.

When will pregnancy acne clear?

The duration of Pregnancy acne varies among women; unfortunately, acne during pregnancy does not follow a fixed timeline. In early pregnancy, high levels of the hormone progesterone are produced. Increased progesterone stimulates oil production, which can clog pores and cause acne. Many women find that their acne breakouts last through the first and second trimesters and then clear up during the third trimester. However, some women experience acne throughout the entire pregnancy and see significant improvement after giving birth. Others continue to have persistent acne even while breastfeeding, with the acne finally clearing up several months postpartum. The duration of acne may be influenced by the ongoing hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Will pregnancy acne go away after the first trimester?

During the first trimester, your hormones increase, which stimulates your skin to produce more sebum. While some skin breakouts are common because the body is adapting to the rising hormone levels, everyone’s experience is different, so there is no specific timeline for when acne will clear up. Pregnancy acne mainly results from hormonal fluctuations as your body prepares to nurture and deliver a baby. In particular, increased progesterone causes more sebum production, leading to clogged pores. Progesterone levels tend to stay high until about 36 weeks, so many pregnant women experience acne during the first two trimesters but usually see improvement after childbirth. If you have persistent acne that doesn’t go away even after giving birth, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, to determine the best treatment.

What is the best acne treatment while pregnant?

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for clearing acne during pregnancy. The best option for you depends on the type and severity of your acne. Often, targeted skincare products, topical antibiotics, and HydraFacials can effectively treat comedones and mild inflammatory acne. Patients with cystic acne can benefit significantly from acne surgery, which involves removing the contents of the acne lesions and reducing inflammation with intralesional cortisone injections. If you’re ready to find the right acne treatment, the first step is to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green. When you meet with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side of NYC, she will assess your acne and medical history before developing a personalized treatment plan. The topical creams, cleansers, or acne treatments recommended by Dr. Green will be customized to your specific breakouts to help you achieve clear, acne-free skin.

Which face wash is good for pregnancy acne?

The Mayo Clinic recommends using a gentle yet effective cleanser to remove dirt and debris from the pores without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Dr. Michele Green’s proprietary line of skincare products, MGSKINLABS Inc., offers a soothing Gentle Cleanser for Sensitive Skin designed to unclog pores and cleanse without removing natural moisture. This lipid-free cleanser leaves a thin moisturizing film on the skin, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin.

Will pregnancy acne go away after giving birth?

Acne usually clears up within weeks after giving birth for most patients. However, some may experience ongoing acne flares postpartum as hormone levels continue to fluctuate. Postpartum acne is expected to improve once hormone fluctuations stabilize and hormone levels return to normal. Patients with persistent postpartum acne should see an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, who can recommend a safe and effective acne treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.

How to get rid of postpartum acne?

While postpartum acne often resolves on its own as hormone levels stabilize, certain treatments can help decrease acne and improve its appearance. After giving birth, hormone fluctuations during lactation can contribute to postpartum acne. Similar to pregnancy acne, there are restrictions on which medications can safely treat it. HydraFacials, acne surgery, and targeted topical creams can reduce postpartum acne lesions while you are breastfeeding. If you are not breastfeeding, other treatment options can be explored. When seeking postpartum acne treatment, it is important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, who can develop a personalized treatment plan that is safe for both you and your baby.

How to start with the best pregnancy acne treatment today

During pregnancy, your body experiences many changes, including the development of acne. With so many acne treatments available, figuring out which options are safe and effective during pregnancy can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green can help guide you through your pregnancy acne treatment. Dr. Michele Green in NYC will create a personalized plan that may include a combination of topical treatments, targeted skincare products, and in-office procedures such as HydraFacials and acne surgery, both of which are safe and effective during pregnancy. If you’re ready to clear your pregnancy-related acne and achieve smooth, clear skin, Dr. Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green, based in New York City, is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist renowned worldwide for her holistic approach to treating active breakouts and residual acne scars. With over 25 years of experience, she has treated some of the most discerning men and women from around the globe. She has a special focus on helping pregnant patients who struggle with acne achieve a clear complexion. Dr. Green takes the time to understand each patient’s unique acne condition and creates customized treatment plans that address their specific skin concerns safely. Her dedication to her patients and her expertise are reflected in her consistent recognition as one of New York’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times. To start with a personalized acne treatment plan, please call Dr. Green’s NYC office at 212-535-3088 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation.