Pregnancy can affect the body in all types of ways. For the lucky ones this means a glowing complexion and thick, luscious hair. But for others the effects can be negative, and a perfect example of this is dreaded pregnancy acne. Women who have spent their entire lives with crystal clear complexions can sometimes find that their skin suddenly breaks out in unsightly pimples and spots. But being pregnant means many don’t want to treat any part of their body with harsh chemicals and over the counter remedies, and many new moms wonder how to treat pregnancy acne in a natural way.
Honey, particularly Manuka honey, is full of antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-fungal properties and is a great way of tackling pregnancy acne. Honey also contains hydrogen peroxide which gives it it’s antibiotic qualities. Just apply generously to the affected area and leave for around 15 minutes before washing off with warm water. Another kitchen staple that many swear by is baking soda. Simply mix equal parts of baking soda and water to form a paste then apply to each spot directly using a cotton bud. Leave to dry for around 10 minutes and then wash off with cold water. And while you are raiding those cupboards keep an eye out for the likes of lemon juice, oats, mint leaves, strawberries and apple cider vinegar which are all considered to be great ways of tackling pregnancy acne.
If homeopathic remedies are more your thing then look no further than the magic and soothing properties of tea tree oil. This essential oil, from a plant native to Australia, has been heralded as one of the best natural remedies for fighting acne due to the way it tackles bacteria. So much so that there are an abundance of acne fighting products available on our shelves today containing this miracle oil. For something a bit more organic try mixing it with aloe vera gel, coconut oil or honey and applying. You can even mix it with water and use it like a toner over your whole face. Just be careful as tea tree oil should never be applied undiluted to acne.
Another discovery is the revelation that the herb thyme could be the key to fighting acne. And it’s the perfect natural remedy for those who are expecting a little one. Recent research has shown that the herb could be better at zapping spots than many of the prescription creams, gels and lotions that are on offer today and laboratory tests have concluded that thyme oil is one of the most effective essential oils at inhibiting bacterial growth. Thyme oil can be blended into a carrier oil base and applied to the acne directly or small amounts of thyme oil can be added to hot water and applied as a warm compress.
On the subject of oils, another one thought to have amazing acne healing properties is that old favorite coconut oil. The same ingredients found in breast milk to protect babies from infection are also found in coconut oil. This – plus the vitamin E and anti-inflammatory properties it also contains – makes it an invaluable way of treating those pregnancy pimples. Make sure you use virgin coconut oil and apply it to the face before bed instead of a moisturiser. Leave it on overnight and not only should your acne begin to clear up but you will be left with glowing and nourished skin to boot.
If there was ever a time that you wanted to put only natural and organic products on and into your body then pregnancy is that time. So if you are unlucky enough to be cursed with some pre-natal acne then give some of our remedies a try. You might just love the results!
RELATED QUESTIONS
Pregnancy Acne:( any suggestions on what to try?
Please someone, anyone have a safe face wash/acne treatment during pregnancy. My face is a disgrace!
Those who had acne during pregnancy did it go away after giving birth?
