Prevent Acne Breakouts

You may not have had zits since you were a teenager but now, you may find pimples sprouting up on your face, neck and breasts.

What causes pregnancy acne?
A surge in progesterone around week 6 of your pregnancy causes your glands to increase acne-causing secretions of oil that clog up pores, leading to breakouts.

What you can do:
1. Keep your face clean. Prevent flare-ups by cleaning your face gently with a mild, soap-free cleanser twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.

2. Be gentle. Don’t overwash or use scrubs as it will strip your skin of its natural moisture, causing your oil glands to go into overdrive.

3. Moisturise. It may seem strange to moisturise but using an oil-free moisturiser can help minimise the irritation.

4. Read the labels. Look for skincare, makeup and hair care products that are oil-free and labelled non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic.

5. The A-list. Take more food containing vitamin A like milk, fish, eggs and carrots. Stay away from extra vitamin A supplements as an excess has been shown to cause birth defects.

6. Eat healthily. Cut out unhealthy fried food, cookies and cakes and replace them with healthy fats found in avocado, salmon, walnuts and almonds.

7. Stay hydrated. Water helps to flush out your skin, keeping it moist and clearer.

8. Talk to your obgyn or GP. He or she can recommend a topical treatment that’s suitable for you. Don’t use any medication, topical or oral, unless it’s been prescribed or cleared by your doctor.

9. Acid attack. Stay away from products containing beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) and salicylic acid until after you deliver and wean your baby.