Are you pregnant and dealing with an angry acne flare-up on your skin? Acne during pregnancy can be even more frustrating as many traditional treatments are off-limits. But the good news is that we have some natural and safe options that actually work!
Zinc and natural clays like kaolin are proven-effective and safe for treating acne-prone skin while pregnant. Read on further to know what research says about these gentle alternatives.
Why Pregnancy Causes Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
Pregnancy causes significant changes to your hormones, which have a direct effect on your skin. There is a rise in androgen levels during pregnancy that may lead to the onset or exacerbation of acne.1
In turn, the increased androgens stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, resulting in excess oil that may clog pores and lead to breakouts. Androgens are the most crucial hormones that regulate sebum production.2
Acne in pregnancy is usually inflammatory and is most severe during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. It is estimated to affect up to 43% of pregnant individuals.3
Benefits of Zinc for Pregnancy Skin
Zinc is one of the few systemic treatments that may be considered in the treatment of acne in pregnant women. More than 2,500 pregnant women were given zinc, of various strengths, in studies that aimed at evaluating the use of zinc supplements during pregnancy. None of these studies reported abnormalities or congenital malformation, harmful effects, or risk to the fetuses.4 This makes zinc particularly valuable when topical treatments alone aren't providing enough relief.
Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties and increases reepithelialisation (the skin's natural process of covering a wound with new skin), thereby supporting its topical use for treating various skin conditions.6 This suggests that zinc has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and that it may decrease sebum production. 7 It is safe to use on a pregnant woman since it is a surface drug and its active substances do not pass into the bloodstream. 8
Kaolin Clay: A Gentle Option for Sensitive Skin
Kaolin is a naturally occurring clay mineral used in cosmetics for its absorbent properties. When applied to the skin, kaolin acts as a drying agent and emollient, serving to dry or soften the skin and create a protective layer.9 This makes it particularly useful for managing the excess oil production that occurs during pregnancy.
Kaolin is highly insoluble and is not absorbed systemically, which means it's not generally associated with severe toxicity.9 Because kaolin works on the surface of the skin without entering your bloodstream, it can be used safely during pregnancy for topical application.
Kaolin-containing preparations are not absorbed when used on the skin.9 This local action makes kaolin clay masks a gentle choice for pregnant women looking to control oily skin and reduce acne without systemic effects.
How to Use Zinc and Natural Clays Safely During Pregnancy
When using zinc for acne during pregnancy, various formulations of zinc can be considered for the treatment of moderate to severe acne. 10
For topical applications, apply zinc oxide preparations directly to affected areas as a spot treatment. 6
When using kaolin clay masks, apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin and leave for a few minutes until the mask dries. Rinse thoroughly and repeat twice a week to control oil production.
Who Should Avoid or Use with Caution
If you have moderate to severe acne during pregnancy, it's best to consult with a dermatologist who can recommend a comprehensive treatment plan. Topical medications are recommended as first-line treatment for acne in pregnant women, including antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, and azelaic acid.11
Conclusion
Dealing with acne during pregnancy doesn't have to be difficult. Natural remedies such as zinc and kaolin clay are gentle and effective ways to manage oily skin and acne without introducing toxic chemicals into your system or affecting the baby. Zinc has an excellent safety profile with decades of research supporting its use during pregnancy, while kaolin clay has been a traditional remedy to absorb excess oil from skin. Also, pregnancy acne is only temporary and should resolve itself after giving birth when hormones revert to normal.
Pregnant women looking for an effective and safe skin treatment during pregnancy can consider AreoVeda's Skin Clarifying Serum, which has been carefully developed using only all-natural ingredients such as Canadian Willowherb, PENTAVITIN®, hyaluronic acid, and turmeric. It helps combat acne-causing bacteria, hydrating skin for 72 hours, while reducing redness in just 30 minutes.
It’s always advisable to consult your doctor before embarking on a new treatment while pregnant to develop a personalized regime for your skin that suits your needs.
