Acne in pregnancy: a skincare routine

General information for patients. This page does not replace individual medical advice. Last updated 30 September 2026.

The products

• Benzoyl peroxide wash, 5%. Stronger washes irritate more without working much better.
• Azelaic acid 20%: Azclear Action Medicated Lotion (over the counter at pharmacies).
• Glycolic acid 7%: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner.
• Sunscreen: SPF 50+.
• Optional: a moisturiser containing niacinamide (2% to 5%). It calms redness and helps the skin tolerate the other products.

All of these are considered compatible with pregnancy.

Morning

1. Benzoyl peroxide wash. Leave on for 1 to 2 minutes, then rinse.
2. Azclear. Apply a thin layer and let it dry for a minute or two.
3. Moisturiser (optional; skip it if your sunscreen is moisturising enough).
4. Sunscreen, every day. Glycolic acid makes skin more sensitive to the sun, and pregnancy increases the risk of pigmentation (melasma).

Evening

1. Gentle, non-medicated cleanser.
2. Glycolic toner on a cotton pad, or Azclear. Use one or the other each night, not both.
3. Moisturiser.

Starting out

• Weeks 1 to 2: benzoyl peroxide wash each morning, Azclear once a day (morning), glycolic toner 2 to 3 nights a week.
• Then build up over 2 to 4 weeks: Azclear on the nights you don’t use the toner, and the toner more often if your skin is comfortable.
• If your skin stings or flakes, use the glycolic toner less often first. It is the least important product.

Good to know

• Benzoyl peroxide bleaches fabric. Use white towels and pillowcases.
• If Azclear balls up (pills) under sunscreen, apply a thinner layer, let it dry fully, and skip the moisturiser. If it still pills, switch to Finacea (azelaic acid 15% gel, from pharmacies) and use it the same way.
• Be patient. Allow 8 to 12 weeks to see results.
• Avoid retinoid creams (such as adapalene and tretinoin) during pregnancy.
• If your acne is not improving, or you have painful deep lumps or scarring, see your doctor.