Anti Acne Serum: What To Avoid and What To Look For

Hormonal change can trigger acne breakouts during pregnancy and take a toll on Mamas’ confidence but don’t worry because here is a breakdown of how to break free from acne breakouts!

Acne breakouts, like stretch marks, are one of the changes that Mamas experience in their body when pregnant. An increase in a hormone called progesterone causes oil production in the skin to increase which may contribute to acne and clogged pores.

A common dilemma for pregnant Mamas is that not all skin care products are safe for pregnancy because the majority of skin care products available in the market contain harmful chemicals that are proven to pose health risks to Mamas and babies.

3 ingredients you should avoid when treating acne breakouts:

1. Retinols and retinoids

Retinols and retinoids are Vitamin A derivatives that may pose Fetal Retinoid Syndrome (FRS) which may cause serious birth defects. These birth defects may include skull and facial deformations, heart abnormalities, and issues with the central nervous system.

2. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid

These two ingredients are commonly used in cosmetic and skin care products however these are not recommended to be used by pregnant and lactating Mamas. Despite having several benefits for acne treatment, these chemicals are detrimental to pregnant women due to the risk of a toxic syndrome called salicylism. The symptoms of salicylism may be severe ranging from dizziness, coma, and even death.

3. Aluminum chloride

Aluminum is a common ingredient in deodorants to lessen excessive sweating however this ingredient can also be found in some skincare products. It is considered to be a toxic chemical for pregnant Mamas because it causes neurological disorders in the baby. Even at low concentration levels, aluminum (including aluminum chloride) is toxic in all developmental stages.

Ingredients that are safe for pregnant and lactating Mamas

Now that we’ve covered the harmful chemicals contained in acne treatment products, let’s review safe ingredients you should look for to treat acne breakouts during pregnancy:

1. Centella Asiatica

Gotu kola, commonly known as Centella Asiatica, is a herb that contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the skin. This ingredient is pregnancy-safe, it is also sure to help with hydration and the reduction of excess sebum.

2. Hyaluronic acid

Acne breakouts can be caused by excess sebum production due to dry skin which is why hydration is key to combating acne breakouts. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in our bodies and its main job is to hydrate the skin and keep it well-moisturized (Matta, 2021).

This ingredient can be used to moisturize and hydrate the skin without causing any concern in fetal development (Nazarian, M.D., 2021).

3. Organic green tea

Organic green tea has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties which help fight acne-causing bacteria. It is also perfect for all skin types and calms skin irritation, reduces dryness, and even treats hyperpigmentation or melasma.

Time to break free from acne breakouts!

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Still not sure which pregnancy-safe acne products to choose? Don’t worry Mama, we have just the right product for you – Mama’s Choice Acne Serum!

Mama’s Choice Acne Serum not only contains the pregnancy-safe ingredients mentioned above, but it is also fast-acting! Based on a study with 45 Mamas who used the serum for 7 days, this acne serum is known for the following: