Acne is a problem for many pregnant women. Proactiv is a formulation that is effective against acne, but as in all things related to pregnancy, women can wonder whether this is safe to use during pregnancy. So is Proactiv during pregnancy safe?
Why pregnancy acne occurs
Like a most pregnancy related ailments this one also can be laid at the door of the hormonal changes that are going on inside the body at that time. It is probably the hormonal changes that could be causing the skin to produce excess sebum, which causes the acne.
There is also the fact that fluid retention can be a problem many pregnant women face and this could be adding to the acne problem.
Is Proactiv safe to use in pregnancy?
According to the Proactiv website, there is no reason not to use this acne medication during pregnancy, because none of its ingredients are contraindicated for pregnancy. However as in all things during pregnancy you should ask your doctor about using it and use it only if your doctor clears it. Most doctors seem to be of the opinion that Proactiv can be safely used in pregnancy.
What is off limits during pregnancy?
For severe acne breakouts, medications such as accutane, topical retiniods, Retin-A, etc. may be prescribed (brand names isotretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene, tretinion etc). However these are not safe during pregnancy.
In fact pregnant women should steer clear of any oral acne medications during pregnancy. Tetracycline and oral isotretinoin should be avoided particularly since they are associated with certain birth defects. These medications should also be avoided while lactating because some oral medications could pass on to a baby through breast milk.
In some cases erythromycin may be prescribed as an antibiotic to fight severe pregnancy acne. But under no circumstances should pregnant women self medicate for their acne problem.
What can you do about acne in pregnancy?
Remember that your skin will most likely clear up after the arrival of your baby. In the mean time you can try and prevent flare-ups by taking extra care of your skin. Clean your face with gentle cleansers and steer clear of harsh chemicals that could irritate skin. Use an oil free moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.
Shampoo your hair frequently and keep hair off your face. Don’t keep touching your face. This will help to avoid acne.
Use non-comedogenic products that won’t block pores. Don’t pop or squeeze pimples because this could spread the bacteria and cause new breakouts.