Managing Problematic Skin During Pregnancy

By Mark Chariker, M.D.  and Brittany Brooks 

Acne During Pregnancy

It isn't just an old wives' tale -- it's really true. A woman can look most ravishing during pregnancy. Well ... make that some women. Indeed, while pregnancy can leave some lucky ladies looking luscious, for others, all that extra hormonal activity can have the opposite effect, causing a variety of pregnancy skin problems. Acne is the number one skin problem to hit women during pregnancy -- but there are also a variety of bumps and rashes and discolorations that occur as well - and most of them due to hormone activity. Moreover, you might also find that at least some of the tried and true beauty products you relied on to keep your skin glowing before pregnancy are unsafe to use after baby is on board. But fear not -- help is on the way! With just a few small changes to your grooming routine, you can get the glow going and join the ranks of the some the world's most beautiful pregnant divas!

Treatment Strategies

Even if it's been years since you've seen acne, don't be surprised if pregnancy brings out a bumper crop, particularly around the lower face and mouth. These are the most common areas for acne to occur during pregnancy, and if you don't treat it right away, it will continue until you deliver, and sometimes even after your baby is born. Although some over-the-counter preparations can help, be sure to know the product you are using.

Products that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or any of the retinoids are not safe for use during pregnancy. Sulphur-based topical products, as well as those containing glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acids, or any at-home microdermabrasion treatment are safe to use. I suggest a plastic surgeon or dermatologist to guide you thru these treatments. If these don't help, there are topical prescription drugs that offer good results. These include erythromycin cream and azelaic acid -- both very safe to use during pregnancy. Note that prescription oral erythromycin is considered safe to use if topical treatments are not effective.

What also works: switching to a foundation for oily skin, or using loose powder mineral makeup. Both have oil-blotting properties and won't irritate skin with acne. You can also use a mattifying product underneath your makeup to soak up excess oil, or dab your face with blotting papers during the day to help remove excess oil.

Pigment Problems

Once your delivery is over, as well as breast feeding, increased facial pigmentation or mole changes can be safely addressed, which are common occurrences during this time. Again, examination by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist is wise. Remember that sunscreen can still be used during pregnancy which is helpful especially in fair skin individuals.

Skincare

Note that some general practices such as mild cleansers for sensitive skin, pH balanced skin toners for oily skin and gentle treatment of the skin with warm water as opposed to long hot showers that strip the skin of essential natural oils go a long way in maintaining healthy skin. A balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables provide the body with essential micronutrients. Drinking about 8 glasses of fluid a day hydrates the body and the skin, which is the best skin moisturizer. A multivitamin with minerals and zinc completes the nutrition component. In regards to skin moisturizers, agents that hold the body’s natural oils may be all that is needed. This should be avoided if acne becomes a problem.

Mark E. Chariker, M.D, FACS is a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, with a subspecialty in Hand Surgery. He is the Surgical Director for Operation Hope; a program that performs corrective surgery for patients with craniofacial anomalies predominately in the Philippines. He offers expertise in skin care and managing various skin conditions. His office carries the top product lines and offers spa services such as chemical peels, customized facials, laser treatments, and injectables such as Evolence, Juvederm and Botox. He is breaking ground on a new state of the art facility including a Medi-spa set to open in the spring.For more information, visit www.drchariker.com.

Brittney Brooks is an licensed esthetician who works at Dr. Mark E. Chariker’s office. She is attending the Louisville Massage School pursuing her license in Massage Therapy.