While pregnant moms may see an increase in acne during pregnancy, many prescription acne treatments are not considered safe during pregnancy. The most common medications used for acne are Accutane, Retin-A and Tetracycline.

Accutane is a Category X medication which means the drug has shown fetal defects in human cases. Retin-A is a Category C which means it crosses into the bloodstream and into the fetus.

Tetracycline is a Category D which means the medication is not approved for pregnancy and can cause birth defects.

The use of over the counter medications and antiseptics for acne should be pre-approved by the obstetrician while pregnant.

Acne is caused by blocked sebaceous (oil) glands. The skin sheds more than 30,000 dead skin cells a day. If these skin cells block the sebaceous glands, the natural oil cannot escape and thus the backup of oil causing acne.

Natural facial care during pregnancy can aid in controlling the flair up of acne during pregnancy. Skin should only be washed with a mild facial wash as soaps tend to dry the skin. Skin should be washed both morning and night. Weekly exfoliating with an approved product can help to clear up any dead skin cells that have not shed from the skin.

After washing the face, a light moisturizer should be used to keep the skin free from additional dry patches that could increase acne. Pregnant women may also try eating less oily foods to decrease acne break outs during pregnancy.
If acne becomes severe, the pregnant woman can seek help from a dermatologist. Acne can permanently scar the skin if left untreated.