Breakouts During Pregnancy: What to Know

Pregnancy hormones can increase oil production and change how easily pores become blocked. That may lead to red pimples, tender bumps, or whiteheads on the face, chest, or back. Breakouts are a presentation of acne, but a spot does not by itself identify the cause. Friction, sweating, occlusive makeup, and a new skin product can add to the problem. Dark marks may remain after inflammation, particularly if spots are squeezed or picked; this is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Wash gently with lukewarm water and a mild, non-abrasive cleanser, then use a non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen. Keep hair products away from the face, change pillowcases regularly, and avoid scrubbing or popping lesions. Before using an acne product, review its active ingredients with your maternity clinician; some prescription and non-prescription acne medicines are unsuitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. A clinician can choose an option that fits your trimester, skin pattern, and medical history. In-clinic choices such as an acne extraction facial, chemical peel, or LED light therapy also need pregnancy-specific assessment rather than self-booking.

Arrange a dermatology review if breakouts are deep, painful, spreading, leaving marks, or affecting sleep or confidence. Seek prompt medical advice for rapidly worsening swelling, warmth, pus with fever, or a painful rash around the eyes. A sudden widespread eruption may need a different diagnosis from acne. Bring the names or photographs of all products and medicines you use so the clinician can check pregnancy and breastfeeding suitability.

Ask which cleanser and acne active are appropriate for your stage of pregnancy, whether a current product should be stopped, and what to use if you are breastfeeding. You can also ask how to distinguish acne from a pregnancy rash and how to reduce the chance of lasting dark marks.