When Does Pregnancy Acne Start?

Pregnancy can bring many changes to your body, and your skin is no exception. One common change is pregnancy acne, which can affect people in different ways. This article will explain what pregnancy acne is, when it usually starts and what causes it. We will also explore whether acne can be a sign of pregnancy, if it indicates your baby’s sex, where it tends to appear, safe treatment options, and whether it can continue after pregnancy. 

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about pregnancy acne:

• Pregnancy acne is linked to hormonal changes and often appears during the first trimester.

• Acne during pregnancy is not a reliable sign of whether you are having a boy or a girl.

• Hormones like progesterone and increased oil production play a role in pregnancy acne.

• Gentle, pregnancy-safe skincare can help manage symptoms without harming the baby.

• In some cases, acne may persist after pregnancy and require further treatment.

What is pregnancy acne?

Pregnancy acne is a common skin condition that develops during pregnancy, mainly due to hormonal fluctuations. It can present as small breakouts, red or inflamed spots, or even deeper cystic blemishes. Many notice it during the first and second trimesters, although it can appear at any stage. While some may experience only mild symptoms, others can have more noticeable flare-ups.

When does pregnancy acne start?

Pregnancy acne often begins in the first three months of pregnancy, which is when hormone levels start to change significantly [1]. These hormonal changes can stimulate oil glands, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Acne may develop later for some people, during the second trimester, but the early stages of pregnancy are the most common time for symptoms to start [2].

Is acne a sign of pregnancy?

While acne can occur during pregnancy, it is not considered a definitive sign that you are pregnant. Many factors can cause acne, such as stress, diet and normal hormonal fluctuations outside of pregnancy [3]. Acne can appear alongside other pregnancy symptoms such as missed periods, morning sickness, fatigue and breast tenderness [4]. If you think you might be pregnant, the most reliable method of confirmation is a home pregnancy test or medical examination.

Is acne in pregnancy a sign of having a girl?

Acne during pregnancy is not a reliable indicator of your baby’s sex. There is a popular myth that having acne means you are having a girl, but there is no scientific evidence to support this. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect skin condition regardless of whether you are expecting a boy or a girl. These changes are more closely linked to increased oil production and skin sensitivity than the sex of your baby.

What causes acne in early pregnancy?

During early pregnancy, rising hormone levels, particularly progesterone, stimulate the skin’s sebaceous glands to produce more sebum (oil). This excess oil can clog pores, trapping bacteria and leading to inflammation [5]. Other hormonal and physiological changes in pregnancy also play a role, though the exact mechanisms are still being studied [6]. The immune system also adapts during pregnancy, which may influence the skin’s response to bacteria and inflammation [7].

Where does pregnancy acne usually appear?

Pregnancy acne can appear in the same places as regular acne. The most common areas include the face, particularly the chin, jawline and cheeks. Some may notice breakouts on the chest, back and shoulders. This is often because oil glands in these areas are more active. Hormonal changes may also lead to skin being more reactive to sweat and friction from clothing.

How to treat and manage pregnancy acne safely

When treating pregnancy acne, it is important to choose safe methods that do not pose risks to your baby. A gentle skincare routine is recommended, using mild, fragrance-free cleansers and non-comedogenic moisturisers. 

Avoid harsh scrubs and products containing retinoids or high-strength salicylic acid, as these are not advised during pregnancy. Instead, opt for pregnancy-safe treatments like topical azelaic acid or certain antibacterial washes, but only after checking with a healthcare professional.

Lifestyle habits such as keeping hair away from the face, washing pillowcases regularly and avoiding touching the skin unnecessarily can also help reduce breakouts.

Can acne continue after pregnancy?

Acne may continue for some people after giving birth. This is often due to ongoing hormonal fluctuations, particularly while breastfeeding. For others, skin may return to its pre-pregnancy condition within weeks or months. If acne persists or worsens after pregnancy, there may be other contributing factors, and a doctor or dermatologist can recommend suitable treatment options.

When should you consult a doctor?

You should seek medical advice if pregnancy acne is severe, painful, or causing significant distress. Also, speak to a healthcare professional before starting any medicated skincare or acne treatments, as not all options are safe during pregnancy. If acne persists after pregnancy or is accompanied by other unusual symptoms, it is worth having it checked.

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy acne is a common but often temporary condition linked to hormonal changes. It typically appears in the first trimester and can vary from mild to more noticeable outbreaks. While myths suggest it may reveal your baby’s sex, there is no scientific basis for this. Gentle skincare, safe treatment choices and professional advice when needed can help you manage symptoms and maintain healthy skin throughout pregnancy.

Sources

[1] Acne - Causes - NHS

[2] Pregnancy acne: How to deal with it - Flo.

[3] Skin Conditions During Pregnancy | ACOG

[4] What Are Early Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy | Pampers UK

[5] Menstruation and Pregnancy - Acne Support.

[6] Acne in pregnancy: A prospective multicenter, cross-sectional study of 295 patients in Turkey - PubMed.

[7] Treatment of Acne Vulgaris During Pregnancy and Lactation: A Narrative Review - PMC