Pregnancy acne: gentle skincare for pregnant women

Pregnancy Acne: Why It Happens and How to Care for Your Skin Gently

Pregnancy acne: gentle skincare for pregnant women
Why pregnancy acne appears and how to care for your skin gently
Pregnancy acne is common and is usually hormonal acne, caused by the natural shifts in hormone levels. In most cases it is temporary and settles down after birth. During pregnancy, skin needs especially gentle care, and it is best to discuss any product or treatment with your doctor.
Important: This article is for information only. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, always consult your doctor or gynaecologist before using any cosmetic product or skincare item on your skin. Some ingredients are not recommended during pregnancy.
In this article you'll find

Why pregnancy acne appears

Pregnancy acne: gentle skincare for pregnant women

During pregnancy, hormone levels change significantly. Raised androgen levels stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, which can clog pores and lead to pregnancy acne. Because the cause is hormonal, this condition is also known as hormonal acne, and it's a completely natural response of the body.

When does pregnancy acne appear and how long does it last?

Acne most often becomes more noticeable during the first and second trimester, when hormonal changes are at their strongest. It varies from woman to woman: some don't get any spots at all, while others notice a real change in their skin. In most cases, pregnancy acne is temporary and gradually fades after birth, once hormones settle down.

How skin changes during pregnancy
First trimester
Spots may appear due to sharp hormonal changes.
Second and third trimester
For some women acne persists, while for others the skin calms down.
After birth
Hormones gradually settle and skin usually improves.
More on this topic: Acne: what you need to know (full guide)

What's important to avoid

Speak to your doctor first. Not all ingredients used against acne are suitable during pregnancy. Only your doctor or gynaecologist can assess what is safe for you.

Here's a general guide to discuss with your doctor. It doesn't replace medical advice, it simply helps you ask the right questions:

Usually gentle (but ask your doctor first)
Gentle cleansing with lukewarm water, light hydration, and natural single-ingredient lavender water.
Discuss with your doctor before use
Products with active ingredients, essential oils (including mint), certain plant extracts, and any new cosmetic product.
Avoid without your doctor's approval
Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), high concentrations of salicylic acid, oral acne medication, and aggressive procedures.

The general rule is simple: during pregnancy, opt for gentle, simple care and check with your doctor before trying anything new.

Gentle natural care during pregnancy

Gentle natural skincare during pregnancy

When you're looking for the gentlest possible care, a good choice is a product with just one, clear ingredient. Organic Lavender water - Hydrolina contains only lavender water (INCI: Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Water), is vegan and organically grown. It gently refreshes and soothes skin that's prone to blemishes.

Organic Lavender Water Hydrolina, gentle care for skin prone to blemishes
💜Just one ingredient

Only lavender water (INCI: Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Water), no additives, vegan and organic.

💜Gentle refreshment

Refreshes and cleanses skin prone to blemishes without drying it out.

💜Soothing

Helps soothe redness and leaves skin feeling comfortable.

Gentle routine during pregnancy
1
Cleanse your face with lukewarm water morning and evening, without rubbing harshly.
2
Refresh skin with gentle lavender water after cleansing.
3
Moisturise with a light product that's right for you, approved by your doctor.
4
Ask your doctor before trying any new cosmetic product or active ingredient.
Even with a fully natural, single-ingredient product, consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you're looking for more comprehensive care, such as Acne RoutINA™ or HYDROBIOTIC Lavender and Mint (which contains mint), always discuss these with your doctor first, as certain plant ingredients are not recommended during pregnancy.
What our customers say
4.84 / 5
★★★★★
Organic Lavender water - Hydrolina
★★★★★
Eoin Byrne

I order this for my daughter, and she's well pleased with the cosmetics.

Organic Lavender water - Hydrolina
★★★★★
Sophie

Hello there! I've only been using the organic lavender water Hydrolina for a short while. It's a grand product, just like your other stuff. Leaves the skin lovely and soft, and clean too, without drying it out at all. Cheers!

Organic Lavender water - Hydrolina
★★★★★
Daisy Healy

I bought this organic lavender water for my teenager. We saw results after just the first few uses. Can't recommend it enough!

See all reviews

Acne after birth

After birth, hormones gradually return to their usual levels and acne usually improves. If you're breastfeeding, it's still important to check any products with your doctor. Give your skin time and keep up gentle, consistent care: calm, good hydration and a soft routine are often the best thing you can do.

When you should always consult your doctor
  • Before starting any new product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • If acne is severe, painful, or getting worse quickly.
  • If your skin reacts with a rash, intense redness, or itching.
  • If you're considering any medication for acne.
Related articles

About the InaEssentials family

InaEssentials family, biofarm production of natural cosmetics

InaEssentials is a Bulgarian family business with more than 25 years of experience in organic farming and natural cosmetics made with rose oil, herbal waters and actives from its own plantations. Every product is created with care for the skin and respect for nature.

Frequently asked questions

Is it normal to have acne during pregnancy?
Yes. Pregnancy acne is common and is usually hormonal. In most cases it's temporary and improves after birth.
Which anti-blemish products are safe during pregnancy?
Only your doctor or gynaecologist can assess this. As a general rule, retinoids and high concentrations of active ingredients are avoided. Choose gentle care and consult your doctor.
Can I use lavender water during pregnancy?
Organic Lavender Water contains just one natural ingredient, but even so, it's best to consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Important information

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a doctor or gynaecologist. InaEssentials products are cosmetic, not medicinal, and are not intended for the diagnosis, treatment or prevention of any condition.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, always consult your doctor before using any cosmetic product or skincare item on your skin. Some ingredients, including certain essential oils and plant extracts, are not recommended during pregnancy.

Back to blog

Let customers speak for us

from 7109 reviews
Natural Hair Conditioner with Rosemary oil and White Fir - intensive nourishing care for every hair type
Hair conditioner

Love this product .. use with the lovely shampoo. Keeps my hair soft and conditioned.
Highly recommend all the products

Michele
Acne RoutINA™ - lasting solution for Acne and Blackheads
Thanks to INA ESSENTIALS, my confidence is back

I’ve been using Acne RoutINA™ – lasting solution for Acne and Blackheads for over a year now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I don’t have many photos showing the condition of my skin before, when I was struggling with very aggressive acne, large pimples and many dark spots and scars. For more than 20 years, this acne made my life very difficult.

Today, even though some marks are still visible, I no longer hide from photos, and I love the feeling of softness when I touch my face. Thank you so much! I had tried absolutely every treatment, even laser for a while, but the spots always came back, bigger and darker.

Another reason I remain loyal to your products is your excellent promotions. Truly, a big thank you and congratulations on your wonderful family business.

Carmen
Natural Herbal Soap with Nettle and Pine Oil - anti-inflammatory action
Love everything

I am so happy I found this shop! I absolutely love all the products for my face and my body. They are all natural and perfect for use over pregnancy, thank you so much.

Gabriela
Buy 2 Get 1 FREE - Lavender waters - Hydrolina
Much clearer skin than before

I've used the organic lavender Hydrolina and the hydrobiotic for a little over a week and my skin is much clearer than before. I still do get breakouts everyday but it's not like before where those breakout were big. These are tiny. But I use it 3 to 4 times a day, depending on my breakouts. Even my mum was saying that this is really helping my skin.

Zainab Naazir
Acne RoutINA™ - lasting solution for Acne and Blackheads
Hidrolina for acne

This is extremely powerful and yet gently solution for acne, it doesn't have sting effect when put on the face, the scent is nice and not overpowering as I am sensitive on smells, but overall I would recommend this solution to anyone I know who has similar issues with spot treatment and acne problems.
I really had a doubt when I ordered the products but the acne package solution is soo good it works in just 3 days of use. I will continue with the treatment until all spots are cleared and pores on my face unclogged, but so far so good. Thank you Ina essentials. I will come back for products I want to try soon.
Best: )

Marie Kostova
Natural Wild Nettle Shampoo for Hair Loss
Nettle Shampoo

This Shampoo is absolutely amazing. My teenage daughter developed sudden onset hair loss. We were waiting months for a dermatologist appointment. I hadn't bought anything from InaEssentials, but was so worried I had to give the nettle Shampoo a try. We were both not really expecting much change, but seriously, look at the before and after photos, they are real and I am truly gobsmacked, the hair has regrown. We finally had a dermatologist appointment and she took down the name of the Shampoo. Who knows she might start prescribing it! Amazing Shampoo. Amazing company. I will be rebuying and will recommend to anyone and everyone.

Anonymous
Wild Saint John’s Wort Water - Hydrolina for Psoriasis and Irritated skin
WILD SAINT JOHNS WART WATER

FANTASTIC PRODUCT SINCE I HAVE BEEN USING THIS I HAVE REALLY NOTICED A BIG CHANGE IN MY PSORIASIS NO MORE FLARE UPS

Laura Murphy
Lavender Secret - Natural hand cream for Dry hands
Best handcream ever!

I have tried lots of hand creams over the years, and lately nothing was working. My hands would get dehydrated and I would get little round raised bumps on the backs of my hands. I tried this, and overnight my hands are soft and plump, and stay plump all of the following day. No more raised bumps. My hands have honestly not looked this good for years! I'm using quite a few other products from this company, and they are all amazing. My skin is so much better and best of all, it feels really healthy. I only use it at night, so it can work throughout the night, and that seems to be all it needs. I have now stocked up, and will be sticking to this brand from now on for my skincare. Thank you!!!

Alexandra Coackley
InaEssentials.UK
Hormonal acne

I have been using your brand for over a year now, i love it. The lavender water and soap bar have made a huge difference to my acne. I now use the trio acne set, lavender soap bar and mositurising cream, all, amazing. Your products actually work, they did for me anyway 😊

Mathers Melissa
Organic Chamomile water - Hydrolina for Eczema and Irritated skin
Incredible

Having suffered with Eczema since childhood all I had ever known to keep it at bay was the overuse of steroid creams and ointments which in 2020 bought me to the realisation I was suffering with TSW (Topical Steroid Withdrawal) since then I had been searching for a natural product to help the symptoms of my eczema and try and heal inside and out without resorting to going back on steroids. I came across an advert online for this product which had helped multiple peoples eczema prone skin and of course I had to try it! and I have used it daily since I first purchased in May 2023 and I will never ever look back. My skin is the softest it has ever been and it no longer feels irritated and although I still get slight flare ups occasionally they go within days. This is the best thing I have ever used and will definitely be a lifelong customer. Very quick delivery and a company with excellent values. Thank you! :)

Sophie Forrester
InaEssentials.UK
Organic Chamomile water saved my skin

I recently had a bad flare up of eczema all over my body, the worst I’ve had in years. The prescribed creams I had were no longer doing anything to keep it under control and that’s when I ordered from here as I was willing to try anything. Within a few weeks the eczema on my face, neck and stomach cleared and whilst I still have flare ups on my legs and arms it’s no where near as bad as before.

Shona Bartlett
Organic Lavender water - Hydrolina for Acne
Great Product

Since using this morning and night i have noticed a reduction in active spots,redness and felt my face has been less oily, will be buying another bottle, thankyou 😀

Adam Boyle
Wild Nettle Water - Hydrolina - Hair spray for Hair loss and Oily hair
Happy with the product

The nettle hair shampoo is so good. The hair after wash feel so soft and full volume .It helps a lot with getting rid of dandruff and oily hair.My girls and I are quite happy and will be purchasing again.

Enkelejda Bega
Natural Hair Conditioner with Rosemary oil and White Fir - intensive nourishing care for every hair type
Happy Customer

It's taken me more than one year and many £000's spent on trying to find the right conditioner that is helping to calm my very irritated itchy scalp

I truly believe that I have found my go to conditioner in Ina Rosemary and White Fir, it's certainly helping in calming the itch in my scalp

Margaret Hendrie
Organic Lavender water - Hydrolina for Acne
Forever Grateful

I tried everything for my hormonal acne at age 30 after coming off the pill and stronger and stronger treatments were making things worse including antibiotics which only helped temporarily and prescription grade treatments, was in a spiral and getting more desperate with horrendous pustules all over my cheeks and jawline, really affecting my confidence so badly. Then before giving up completely and resigning myself to a life of hiding, tried this lavendar water from an advert I saw for natural acne solutions as I'd been googling those since other methods failed, and it seemed to be the only thing thats worked, and consistently too! I'd say I am at least 60 percent clearer and it has really helped my self image. I think it must tackle acne bacteria without destroying the skin biome but regardless of looking into it, I'm now a huge fan! Just bought myself a 3 pack with a maskina which I'm waiting for! Face isn't perfect but closest I've got post contraceptive pill! I used to get some results with a couple of previous products for about 3 weeks and then my skin would flare again after that for months after, even though people kept saying keep going with the treatments, retinol, tretonoin, I think all the harsh desperate cleansing and treating was just perpetuating it - was sick and tired of it, think they were spouting nonsense now as after a week of this stuff and now on 3 or 4 months about, still only gets better. Enabling my skin to heal so it can slowly work out the scars too. Forever. Grateful.

El Berry

BEST SELLERS

    "A Purpose Beyond Profit: How Our Brand is Making an Impact"

    At InaEssentials, we believe in giving back to the communities that have supported us. That's why we are proud to offer employment opportunities to members of minority groups, helping to support their livelihoods and provide them with a brighter future. By choosing our organic products, you are not only improving your own health and beauty, but you are also making a positive impact on the lives of others. Join us in making a difference today.