pregnancy acne

I know there have been a number of posts, but did anyone suggest anything that works and is safe? My face and (t.m.i.) back are disgusting... I have NEVER had such bad acne in my life! Thanks ladies!

[krushing]

I know some were talking about Proactive.  I'm not pregnant yet, but since I've been off of birth control, my acne has become unbearable, so I'm willing to try anything.  And I believe they said it was safe to use during pregnancy.

[babydreams9]

I'm sorry you're having such a hard time w/acne. I suffered from severe acne from age 16-19 and it was really difficult. I still get bad breakouts at 25 and, now that I'm pregnant, things aren't any better! I can tell you a few tips that I used back in the day, and that I use now:

- Always use a clean towel to pat (don't rub) your face dry after washing. I keep a stack of clean washcloths on the counter just for drying and use a new one every night.
- Don't wash more than twice a day. Washing too much can dry out skin and cause it to over-produce oil to overcompensate for the dryness, which causes breakouts.
- Even if your skin is super oily like mine, use a light moisturizer all over after washing. I love Neutrogena's oil-free moisturizer for combination skin.
- Change your pillowcase a couple times a week.
- Keep your hair away from your face and forehead, especially at night. Natural oils in your hair can easily get onto your skin and clog pores, causing breakouts.
- Avoid touching your face at all. Even when your hands are clean, there's a ton of oil on them.
- Don't use harsh cleaners. Not only are some of them not proven safe during pregnancy, but they wreck havoc on your skin but over-drying. Use a gentle cleaner. I like Neutrogena's Extra Gentle wash, and Biore cleaning cloths (to get the last traces of make-up off). Always use your hands to wash your face.
- Use high quality make-up and make sure it's comletely removed at night. Be sure it is an oil-free formula.
- For super huge zits, it's okay to use a dab of Clearasil cream on them while pregnant. Avoid salicylic acid.

I hope you get some relief soon; I know how frustrating it is to not feel like you look your best. Best wishes to you!

[LauraB78]

Thanks ladies!!