Is it safe to use benzoyl peroxide during pregnancy?
While benzoyl peroxide is considered safe to use throughout every stage of pregnancy, there are certain precautions you should take to minimize any possible risk or side effects. Benzoyl peroxide, like other acne treatments, can be quite drying on skin, so it's important not to get overzealous when applying it.
Does benzoyl peroxide really work?
Benzoyl peroxide has been used for decades in the treatment of acne and is proven to be effective. In studies, it reduces acne lesions by 50% on average after 3 months, but when used within a proper regimen, it can completely clear the skin. When combined with other medications, it also helps them work better. How does it do this?
Is benzoyl peroxide good or bad?
There is plenty of clinical evidence behind the ability of Benzoyl Peroxide to eliminate skin bacteria. So it may come as some surprise that Benzoyl Peroxide is bad. Bad, bad, bad. Why? Benzoyl Peroxide doesn’t cure acne.
Can benzoyl perioxide permanently damage skin?
Yes, BP can cause a dermatitis (permanent skin damage). I had problems with BP, I used it for the spots, but when I applied it my skin went red (it like burned...)on the spots I had applied the BP. I personally don't like BP at all. Pixieprincess, the skin on the face is much more fragile (thinner) than the skin on the chest and back.
What acne treatment is safe during pregnancy?
Generally, skin treatments containing erythromycin (Erygel, Erythra-Derm) and clindamycin (Cleocin T, Clindagel, others) are considered safe. Other options include treatments containing benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid.
What category is benzoyl peroxide for pregnancy?
Benzoyl peroxide is classified as pregnancy category C. Approximately 5% is absorbed systemically, and it is completely metabolized into benzoic acid, a food additive.
Can you use salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide when pregnant?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has recommendations, and you can discuss them with your healthcare providers. In general, they have suggested topical benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, topical salicylic acid, or glycolic acid for treatment of acne in pregnancy.
Can I use peroxide while pregnant?
Peroxide, the active ingredient in teeth whiteners, is safe for adults -- even if you swallow some during the bleaching process, says Colleen Olitsky, DMD, a cosmetic dentist in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. "But there's so much we don't know about how substances affect babies during pregnancy.
Can you use acne cream while pregnant?
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. It can be helpful to look for cleansers and spot treatments with these active ingredients, which are thought to be safe for pregnancy, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): Azelaic acid. Glycolic acid.
What is category B in pregnancy?
Category B Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
What face ingredients to avoid while pregnant?
11 skincare ingredients to avoid during pregnancyRetinol. Also known as Retin-A and retinyl palmitate, this is a derivative of vitamin A. ... Speaking of sunscreen. ... Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. ... Hydroquinone. ... Parabens. ... Aluminum Chloride. ... Essential oils.
What skincare products should be avoided during pregnancy?
Beauty Products and Skincare Ingredients to Avoid While PregnantRetin-A, Retinol and Retinyl Palmitate. These vitamin A derivatives and others can lead to dangerous birth defects. ... Tazorac and Accutane. ... Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic acids. ... Essential Oils. ... Hydroquinone. ... Aluminum chloride. ... Formaldehyde. ... Chemical Sunscreens.More items...•
What does pregnancy acne look like?
What does pregnancy acne look like? No different from the regular pimples, these are little rashy bumps on your skin. Usually red or pink, they are pretty sensitive to touch. They can also take the form of blackheads or whiteheads.
Is it safe to use panoxyl while pregnant?
Benzoyl peroxide is likely safe to use while you're pregnant. This is because your body absorbs very little of the drug. No problems with use during pregnancy have been reported. You should talk to your doctor before using benzoyl peroxide or any drug while pregnant, though.
Is salicylic acid OK for pregnancy?
Yes, people can safely apply products containing salicylic acid once or twice a day during pregnancy. Cleansers and toners commonly include this ingredient. However, doctors recommended using products containing salicylic acid no stronger than 2 percent. Salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA).
Is benzoyl peroxide safe while breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding. Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding. There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding.
What percent of benzoyl peroxide is safe in pregnancy?
Stick to lower concentrations "Higher percentages of benzoyl peroxide are not proven to be more effective but are usually much more irritating and drying, so best to stick to a lower percentage like 2.5% or up to 5%," Dr. Fahs advises. Look for these numbers when shopping for skincare products.
What pregnancy category is clindamycin?
Relative Risk of Human Teratogenic Risk Associated with Antibiotic Use in Pregnancy and LactationAntibioticTeratogenicity risk/data availableFDA Pregnancy CategoryClindamycin (Cleocin)Undetermined/limitedBDoxycycline (Vibramycin)Unlikely/fairDGentamicinUndetermined/limitedCLevofloxacin (Levaquin)Unlikely/fairC7 more rows•Sep 15, 2006
Is salicylic acid OK for pregnancy?
Yes, people can safely apply products containing salicylic acid once or twice a day during pregnancy. Cleansers and toners commonly include this ingredient. However, doctors recommended using products containing salicylic acid no stronger than 2 percent. Salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA).
Why does my face get oily during pregnancy?
High hormone levels in pregnancy may make acne more likely . Increased hormones cause your skin to produce more oil, and the oil can block your pores. This traps acne-causing bacteria and leads to breakouts. You may find it hard to enjoy your pregnancy “glow” when your face is breaking out. Some women turn to benzoyl peroxide.
Why is it so low risk for pregnancy?
As with pregnancy, the low risk is due to the small amount of the drug that is absorbed into your body through your skin. Just make sure that your child’s skin doesn’t come in contact with your treated skin.
Is benzoyl peroxide safe for pregnant women?
Benzoyl peroxide is generally considered safe for pregnant women. If you have more questions about the safety of benzoyl peroxide or other acne medications during pregnancy, talk to your doctor. Your questions might include:
Does benzoyl peroxide kill bacteria?
Bacteria that cause acne can only live in an oxygen-free environment. Benzoyl peroxide use s oxygen to kill these bacteria. It also helps unclog pores by causing a mild peeling effect. If you’re looking for acne treatments that are safe to use during pregnancy, you may be curious about benzoyl peroxide.
Can you use benzoyl peroxide on your face during pregnancy?
You may find it hard to enjoy your pregnancy “glow” when your face is breaking out. Some women turn to benzoyl peroxide. It’s one of the most effective and widely used nonprescription medications for treating mild to moderate acne. It comes as a face wash, bar, lotion, cream, and gel.
Is it safe to take benzoyl peroxide while pregnant?
Benzoyl peroxide is likely safe to use while you’re pregnant. This is because your body absorbs very little of the drug. No problems with use during pregnancy have been reported. You should talk to your doctor before using benzoyl peroxide or any drug while pregnant, though.
Can benzoyl peroxide cause allergies?
Some people may also have an allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide, with symptoms such as:
Why do pregnant women use benzoyl peroxide?
Because hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause acne or exacerbate existing outbreaks, expecting mothers may use benzoyl peroxide to maintain healthy, blemish-free skin 2.
How does benzoyl peroxide work?
As a skin treatment, benzoyl peroxide works by controlling the growth of P. acnes--a strain of bacteria responsible for acne breakouts. As Acne.com explains, benzoyl peroxide sterilizes and oxidizes the skin, preventing pores from clogging and lesions from forming.
Is benzoyl peroxide safe for pregnancy?
Additionally, even though dermatologists generally consider benzoyl peroxide safe during pregnancy, no controlled data exists examining its effect on unborn children.
Can you use benzoyl peroxide on acne?
In some cases, adjustments in diet or grooming habits can improve your complexion and make benzoyl peroxide-containing acne treatments unnecessary. Making lifestyle changes in lieu of medication can protect your child from exposure to this chemical, as well as any accompanying ingredients found in acne products.
Is it safe to take tetracycline while pregnant?
Benzoyl peroxide is one of the few acne medications considered safe for use during pregnancy, according to the American Pregnancy Association 2. Other popular drugs--including tetracycline, tretinoin and isotretinoin--can pose risks to developing fetuses, including birth defects, inhibition of bone growth and an increased chance of miscarriage. Benzoyl peroxide offers the same acne-fighting benefits of other medications without jeopardizing the health of your unborn child.
Is benzoyl peroxide good for acne?
Benzoyl peroxide is only effective with consistent and long-term use. As a skin treatment, benzoyl peroxide works by controlling the growth of P. acnes--a strain of bacteria responsible for acne breakouts.
How Does Benzoyl Peroxide Benefit You?
Benzoyl peroxide works to oxidize and sterilize the skin, and control the growth of bacteria that causes the acne. This helps to ensure pores do not get blocked and lessen the occurrence of acne-forming bacteria. It should be noted that this medication is generally only effective when used consistently for extended periods of time.
How to get rid of acne while pregnant?
Acne is often cause by hormones within a pregnant women, and will naturally clear up on its own. For this reason, many women decide to avoid medical treatment and allow the condition to ease and eradicate naturally. Some choose to make lifestyle changes and practice better skin care to treat episodes of acne, some things you can try include: 1 Gently cleansing your skin twice daily. 2 Avoid washing your face with rough materials. 3 Avoid rubbing your skin dry, try patting it instead. 4 Avoid the use of moisturizers with oil. 5 Do not scratch or squeeze spots. 6 Avoid oil-based makeup; opt for water-based alternatives. 7 Ensure to remove your makeup each night before bed. 8 Foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots, milk, eggs and fish, can help you to maintain health and clear skin, whilst posing no harm to your unborn child.
Why do pregnant women get acne?
Acne is often cause by hormones within a pregnant women, and will naturally clear up on its own. For this reason, many women decide to avoid medical treatment and allow the condition to ease and eradicate naturally. Some choose to make lifestyle changes and practice better skin care to treat episodes of acne, some things you can try include:
Can you buy benzoyl peroxide over the counter?
This medication can be purchased over-the-counter, in the form of creams, gels, lotions, soaps, face masks, washes and cleansers. In more serious cases of acne, doctors may prescribe higher concentrations of the medication. You should always speak with a health care professional before using benzoyl peroxide. Pregnancy stirs up lots of concern and the safety of yourself and your baby is of top priory, so don't take any medication with consulting your doctor.
Benzoyl peroxide topical Pregnancy Warnings
This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. US FDA pregnancy category: C
Benzoyl peroxide topical Breastfeeding Warnings
This drug should be used only if the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Excreted into human milk: Unknown Excreted into animal milk: Data not available Comments: This drug should not be applied to the breast area to avoid accidental ingestion by the infant.
Further information
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