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How To Get Rid Of Pregnancy Acne

The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can wreak havoc with the complexions of many women. An influx of androgen and progesterone often produce an abundance of oil, and some of these individuals who haven’t seen a blemish since high school may well develop flare-ups and breakouts that come with a full-blown acne condition. Conversely, other women who have contended with acne since adolescence may find that their pregnancy hormones have blessed them with clear skin for the first time in years. Although pregnancy acne is not uncommon, this is a crucial time to schedule blood and urine tests to make sure that hormone levels are not abnormal, or that there are no other indications that the sudden onset of acne is due to any other more serious health conditions.

Home Remedies for Pregnancy Acne

When considering home remedies for pregnancy acne, Urine Therapy may well be an ideal solution. Contrary to common belief that urine is contaminated with germs, it is actually a sterile substance that is rich in minerals, vitamins and hormones, making it ideal for treating acne that is the result of hormonal changes, such as pregnancy acne and hormonal acne. Its benefits have been documented as has its effects on acne and other skin conditions. However, it is important to perform this therapy properly: First, the urine must be highly concentrated, and it is best to use the first voiding of the day. Soak a cotton pad or ball in the urine, and apply it to problem areas of the skin. Let it dry on the skin, and reapply up to three times daily.

Oil cleansing is another method to try when determining how to get rid of pregnancy acne, and this method has been shown to help improve the skin’s condition with many different types of acne. As most cosmetic companies advocate oil-free methods of cleansing, many cleansers strip the skin of all its oils, which often exacerbates an acne condition. Oil cleansing uses a combination of castor oil and olive oil massaged into the skin to release trapped oils in the pores. This method works on the theory that oil removes oil, and has helped to balance an overabundance of oil production due to hormonal changes. After the mixture has been massaged into the skin, a hot washcloth is draped over the face and left to cool. Afterward, the oil is wiped away with the cooled cloth, and no other cleanser is needed.

Best Treatment for Pregnancy Acne

Although they are both popular and effective for those individuals who are not pregnant, retinoids should not be used as they may cause severe birth defects. Antibiotics and other prescription medications, both oral and topical, as well as many over-the-counter (OTC) medications should also be eschewed during pregnancy, as they may be potentially damaging to the fetus. An OB/GYN or a dermatologist should always be consulted about the teratogenic (causing fetal harm) actions of any acne medication. Additionally, many herbs, essential oils, and therapies that are not usually considered harmful should be avoided during this time. Tea tree oil, some herbs used in Ayurvedic acne treatment, and other homeopathic remedies should also be taken only under the guidance of a physician during pregnancy.

While many OTC topical preparations such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide should be avoided by pregnant women, glycolic (fruit-based) acids have been found to be safe for topical acne treatment. For severe acne, a dermatologist may use UV light therapy, a glycolic acid chemical peel, or dermabrasion in the case of scarring. Many dermatologists also now use a technique known as laser resurfacing, which removes the top layer of skin by using pulses of light from a laser to reduce scarring and improve skin appearance.