Facial skin problems are a common complaint experienced by pregnant women. To overcome this, there are various ways to take care of the face during pregnancy that pregnant women can do. However, pregnant women still need to be careful because some of the ingredients in facial care products can harm the fetus.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause various skin problems, including facial skin. Problems with facial skin can make pregnant women feel uncomfortable and insecure.
However, pregnant women need not worry, because there are various ways to treat facial skin during pregnancy that can be done. This method can be in the form of using facial skin care products, medicines, to certain treatment methods.
Various Facial Problems During Pregnancy
There are several problems on the facial skin that are often experienced by pregnant women, including:
Pimple
The appearance of acne during pregnancy is a common condition, especially in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. There are various types, ranging from mild to severe acne.
Acne usually appears due to an increase in androgen hormones which then trigger the oil glands on the skin to produce excess sebum or oil, causing acne. In addition, stress during pregnancy can also aggravate acne that appears.
Black patches on the face or chloasma
Black patches on the face can also appear during pregnancy. The exact cause of this condition is not known.
However, an increase in the hormones progesterone, estrogen, and MSH or the hormone that produces melanocytes, is thought to cause the skin color to become darker, resulting in patches on the face. Sun exposure also plays a role in the appearance of black spots on the face.
How to take care of your face while pregnant
To treat acne during pregnancy, pregnant women can use a topical cream containing azelaic acid, glycolic acid, or sulfur. However, before deciding to use acne medication with the above ingredients, pregnant women are advised to consult a doctor first.
Although classified as safe to use, topical creams with these ingredients can also increase the risk of pregnancy problems if used in excess.
Meanwhile, chloasma It can go away on its own after delivery. However, to reduce or cover the spots that appear, pregnant women can use concealer and a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.
The use of sunscreen aims to protect the skin from UV rays that can trigger changes in skin pigment.
Apart from the things above, pregnant women can also prevent acne and other skin problems in the following ways:
- Clean your face regularly using a mild facial soap, at least twice a day.
- Dry your face using a soft towel by patting it gently.
- Avoid scrubbing your face using scrub.
- Use cosmetics and facial skin care products that are non-comedogenic.
- Avoid touching your face too often.
- Eat nutritious foods, especially vegetables and fruits.
Treatments to Avoid During Pregnancy
It is important for every pregnant woman to be more careful in choosing drugs or products used to treat the face during pregnancy so as not to endanger the condition of pregnancy.
The following are some types of facial remedies and facial care techniques that should be avoided during pregnancy:
Drug
During pregnancy, you are not advised to use acne medications that contain retinoids. salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide, because it can be harmful to the fetus.
In addition, also avoid drugs that contain tetracycline, tretinoin, and isotretinoin. These drugs can affect the development of the fetus and increase the risk of birth defects.
Maintenance
If you want relaxation by doing a spa, it is recommended to choose a therapist who is experienced in dealing with pregnant women. In addition, avoid treatments that use hot temperatures, such as bathing or soaking in warm water for too long and saunas.
If you want to take a bath or bath with warm water, make sure the temperature is not higher than 32 degrees Celsius. Some types of treatment during pregnancy that pregnant women can try are massage for pregnant women, pedicure, and manicure.
Increased hormones during pregnancy can cause various skin problems, especially on facial skin. To overcome this, pregnant women need to be careful in choosing products and types of care. Do not use materials or treatments that can harm the health of pregnant women and fetuses.
Pregnant women can consult a doctor to find out how to take care of the face during pregnancy and make sure whether the medication or type of facial treatment used is in accordance with the pregnant woman's condition.
