Acne during pregnancy

Acne during pregnancy: Causes and safe care

The appearance of pimples and inflammatory rashes on the face, chest or back during pregnancy can be an unpleasant surprise, especially if you have long forgotten teenage skin problems. This phenomenon, known as "pregnancy acne", is very common and has a purely hormonal nature. Understanding the mechanisms of its development and the rules of safe care will help you get through this period with minimal discomfort.

Why does the skin "rebel"?

The main culprit behind acne is the hormone progesterone and androgens, whose levels rise significantly, especially in the first trimester. These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce a larger amount of skin oil (sebum). Excess sebum together with dead skin cells can clog pores, creating an ideal environment for the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes to multiply, leading to inflammation and the appearance of pimples.

This process can be amplified by other factors such as stress, dietary changes, and genetic predisposition. If you had problematic skin before pregnancy, there is a chance that it may temporarily worsen during it. However, in many women the skin, on the contrary, becomes clear and radiant. This is a very individual reaction of the body. Read about other physical changes of the body in our guide.

Safe care: What you can and cannot do

Treating acne during pregnancy requires special caution, as many familiar products are categorically contraindicated. Some active ingredients can penetrate the skin into the bloodstream and harm the developing baby. Always read the cosmetic ingredients carefully and consult a doctor.

Safe ingredients:

• Glycolic and lactic acids (AHA): In low concentrations they are considered safe for gentle exfoliation.
• Azelaic acid: One of the few effective acne-fighting components allowed during pregnancy.
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation.
• Zinc and sulfur: In masks or spot treatments they help dry out inflammation.

What to avoid:

• Retinoids (vitamin A): Isotretinoin, retinol, retinaldehyde — categorically prohibited due to the risk of serious congenital defects in the baby.
• Salicylic acid (BHA): Not recommended in high concentrations (peels, some tonics). Allowed in rinse-off cleansing products.
• Benzoyl peroxide: Use is possible only in low concentrations and after consulting a doctor.

Proper self‑care during this period is not only about beauty, but also about safety.