In this beautiful time when you are expecting to become a mother, have you started to get acne on your face in an unexpected way? Maybe your face is full of acne like never before. Don't worry, this is something that happens to many people. But you are afraid to use the acne cream you used to use before, right? You are a little afraid that something will happen to the baby in the womb. Your fear is very reasonable. Because some of the things we use during pregnancy, especially medications, can directly affect the baby. So let's be aware of this today.
Why do acne appear at this time of year?
Many people think that acne only occurs during adolescence. However, acne is also very common during pregnancy. The main reason for this is the hormonal changes that occur in your body.
Simply put, when you get pregnant, your body's hormone levels increase dramatically. In particular, a type of hormone called androgen is produced in greater amounts. These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands in your skin. This results in an increase in sebum production. This excess oil, along with dead skin cells, clogs your pores. When bacteria start to grow inside these clogged pores, they become red, swollen, and sometimes pus-filled, resulting in acne.
This is a completely natural process. So don't worry and think, "Why is this happening to me?" This is just something your body is going through as it prepares for a new life.
Be careful! Do not use this medicine!
When we get acne, we are used to going to the pharmacy and buying a cream or using a prescription medicine, right? But this is absolutely not the case during pregnancy. Some acne medications can have very serious effects on the unborn baby, that is, the fetus. The table below will make it clear about these dangerous medications.
| Drug category | Chemical / Brand Names (Example) | Possible effects on the baby |
|---|---|---|
| Isotretinoin group (oral medication) | Isotretinoin (e.g. Accutane) | Causes severe birth defects . Risk of miscarriage and stillbirth is very high. |
| Hormone therapy (oral medication) | Flutamide, Spironolactone | Birth defects can occur in various parts of the baby's body. |
| Topical Retinoids | Adapalene, Tazarotene, Tretinoin | It can be absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin and cross the placenta to the baby, causing harm. |
| Tetracycline -type antibiotics (oral medication) | Doxycycline , Minocycline, Tetracycline | It affects the baby's bone development and permanently changes the color of the teeth (yellowing/browning). |
Why are these so dangerous?
Imagine that you are taking a medicine that you drink or apply to your skin and it is absorbed into your bloodstream. This blood is what carries the oxygen and nutrients your baby needs through the placenta. So, the medicines in your blood also pass into your baby's body in the same way.
A drug that is tolerated by an adult body will not be tolerated by a small developing fetus. At this time, when the baby's delicate organs such as the brain, heart, limbs, and face are forming, such strong chemicals interfere with that development. That's what we call "birth defects." That means that parts of the baby's body do not develop correctly. This is a very serious condition. That's why we say, do not do anything during pregnancy without medical advice .
So what are the safe things we can do?
You might be thinking, "Oh, so I'm just going to have to live with this acne?" No, I'm not. There are safer things we can do.
The most important thing is to talk to your doctor (doctor) before using anything. Tell him that you have acne problems. Then he will give you the safest solution for both you and the baby.
Things you can use after asking your doctor
Some skin care products containing benzoyl peroxide are considered safe for pregnant women. However, since the concentration of the product can affect your pregnancy, you should consult your doctor before using it.
Other things to avoid
- Salicylic Acid: Many acne soaps, face washes, and creams contain this. However, since these can also be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, it is best to avoid using them during pregnancy.
- Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA): These are also found in skin lightening and acne products. Since it is not known exactly how these will affect babies, it is wise to avoid taking any risks.
Things you can do without medication
1. Gently cleanse your face: Wash your face twice a day with a gentle, unscented cleanser. Use lukewarm water instead of hot water .
2. Don't squeeze pimples: Squeezing or picking at pimples will only damage the skin, increase the infection, and ultimately lead to scarring.
3. Oil-free products: If you wear makeup or moisturizer, choose products that are labeled "non-comedogenic" (won't clog pores) or "oil-free."
4. Healthy lifestyle: Drink plenty of water. Eat fruits, vegetables, and a nutritious diet. Get enough sleep. These things are very important for skin health.
5. Keep your mind relaxed: The stress during pregnancy can sometimes be a cause of acne. So try to keep your mind relaxed.
These pregnancy acne breakouts are usually temporary. They usually go away once your hormone levels return to normal after you have your baby. So don't worry too much about it. The most important thing is to always follow your doctor's advice and not use anything you feel like using. Your safety and that of your baby should come first.
Take-Home Message
- Acne during pregnancy is a common condition caused by hormonal changes.
- Do not use any acne medication (oral or topical) without a doctor's recommendation.
- In particular, Accutane (Isotretinoin) , Retinoids , Tetracycline -type antibiotics, and certain hormone treatments can be very harmful to the baby.
- It is also wise to avoid products containing salicylic acid and alpha-hydroxy acids on the skin.
- Consult your obstetrician-gynecologist or dermatologist to find out the safest solution for your skin problem.
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