How to Safely Treat Pregnancy Acne

Pregnancy is a hormone roller coaster. Headaches, appetite changes, energy ups and downs, and skin breakouts are a few examples of the many symptoms you’ll experience while you are pregnant. Whether you always had clear skin or always suffered from acne, there is no telling what you might find during pregnancy. Many women notice a change for the worse during their first trimester which usually clears up during the second trimester.

While you may be eager to get medical treatment for your pregnancy acne, be careful. Many common prescriptions and even over the counter acne treatments can be harmful to your baby. Let’s look at three of the most common acne treatments, including prescription generic Accutane and Retin-A and over the counter creams with benzoyl peroxide.

Accutane

Accutane is an oral medication used to treat acne. It is prescription only, and carries with it some serious side effects including the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, and even infant death. You should not use Accutane while you are pregnant, or nursing. If you are taking Accutane and are thinking of becoming pregnant, speak to your doctor before you stop using birth control.

Retin-A

Retin-A is a topical skin cream that is used to treat acne. Retin-A is considered much safer for use during pregnancy then Accutane as only 10% is passed into the blood stream and even less than that will cross the placenta. But, it does however, carry some risk, so make sure to speak with your doctor if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant before using Retin-A.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl Peroxide is the active ingredient in most over the counter acne creams, gels, and cleansers, and is considered safe for use during pregnancy. But make sure to read your labels carefully and always consult your doctor before using any new products. Another common ingredient in over the counter products is salicylic acids, which is NOT safe for use during pregnancy.