Pregnancy and Rosacea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes pimples or bumps on the face. While the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, various factors, including hormonal changes during pregnancy, may trigger or exacerbate the condition. This article will delve into the potential link between pregnancy and rosacea, its symptoms, and treatment options.

Causes of Rosacea During Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings about an influx of hormones, which can sometimes lead to the onset or worsening of certain skin conditions, such as rosacea. Here are some factors associated with pregnancy that may act as triggers or aggravators of rosacea:

Hormonal changes:

Pregnancy leads to significant hormonal changes, including increased levels of estrogen and progesterone. These changes can cause increased blood flow to the skin, resulting in flushing, redness, and potentially worsening rosacea symptoms.

Emotional stress:

Emotional stress, often experienced by pregnant women, is a known trigger for rosacea flare-ups. High stress levels can increase the risk of inflammation, leading to rosacea flare-ups.

Increased skin sensitivity:

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy often heighten skin sensitivity. As a result, pregnant women may be more susceptible to skin irritations, potentially developing rosacea or experiencing exacerbation of pre-existing symptoms.

Symptoms of Rosacea during Pregnancy

There are four types of rosacea that can occur during pregnancy, but not every individual will experience all these symptoms. Here is a breakdown of each type:

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea

This form of rosacea is characterized by:

• Facial redness, particularly on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin
• Swollen, red bumps or pimples
• Visible blood vessels
• Burning or stinging sensation on the skin

Ocular rosacea

Ocular rosacea can occur during pregnancy and manifests in the following way:

• The sensation of an alien body in the eyes 
• Mild irritation in the area around the eyes and in the eyes
• Blurred vision in severe cases
• Inflammatory keratitis and severe alteration of the ocular surface.
• Dry, rough, or scaly skin

Rosacea papulopustulosa

This subtype of rosacea is commonly mistaken for inflammatory acne and will require a professional diagnosis to confirm. It manifests in the following ways: 

• The appearance of inflamed papules and pustules on the face 
• Facial redness

Rosacea phymatous (rhinophyma)

Although very rare during pregnancy, rosacea phymatous be recognized by the following symptoms:

• Skin thickening on the nose 
• The appearance of irregular nodules on the face 
• An increase in the size of facial sebaceous glands accompanied by fibrosis ( the overgrowth, hardening, and/or scarring of various tissues.)

Treatment Options for Rosacea During Pregnancy

There are several safe treatment options for managing rosacea during pregnancy, ranging from appropriate skincare routines and lifestyle changes to certain medications. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment plan. Here are a few tips for managing rosacea during pregnancy:

Safe skincare tips:

Gentle skincare routine

• Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
• Rinse with lukewarm water and avoid scrubbing your face.
• Choose a moisturizer designed for sensitive skin and apply it regularly.
• Avoid using harsh products that contain alcohol or astringents.

Sun protection:

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Seek shade when outdoors.

Lifestyle tips for managing rosacea

Modifying your lifestyle to avoid triggers can be a good way to manage rosacea and prevent frequent flare-ups.

• Identify and avoid triggers that may exacerbate rosacea symptoms, such as spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol, hot showers and extreme temperatures.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

Safe topical and oral treatments for rosacea during pregnancy

It is crucial to consult with a doctor before using any medications or topical creams to ensure their safety during pregnancy. Some common topical medications include:

• Metronidazole cream or gel
• Azelaic acid cream or gel

Oral medications (consult with a healthcare professional):

• Some oral antibiotics, like erythromycin, may be safe for use during pregnancy for short periods.

Safe Natural Remedies for pregnant women with Rosacea

Green tea extract, aloe vera, niacinamide, colloidal oatmeal, and chamomile have properties that could potentially help with rosacea symptoms. However, their efficacy varies from person to person and is not universally proven in clinical trials. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using these remedies.

Green tea extract:

Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe irritated skin. Look for products containing green tea extract or make a cool green tea compress by steeping green tea bags in cold water and applying them to the affected areas.

Aloe vera:

Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate rosacea symptoms. Look for products containing pure aloe vera gel or use a natural aloe vera plant to apply the gel directly to the skin.

Niacinamide:

Niacinamide has been shown to reduce inflammation and redness in rosacea patients. It also helps to reinforce the skin’s barrier reducing the risk of frequent inflammation.

Colloidal oatmeal:

Colloidal oatmeal has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and moisturizing properties that may help relieve rosacea symptoms. Look for skincare products containing colloidal oatmeal or add colloidal oatmeal to your bath water for a soothing soak.

Chamomile:

Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and skin-calming properties that may help alleviate rosacea symptoms. Look for skincare products containing chamomile or make a cool chamomile compress by steeping chamomile tea bags in cold water and applying them to the affected areas.

Post-Pregnancy Rosacea

Some women may develop rosacea after pregnancy due to various factors that contribute to the onset or exacerbation of the condition. The following factors may play a role in the development of post-pregnancy rosacea:

Hormonal fluctuations

Pregnancy leads to significant hormonal changes, including increased levels of estrogen and progesterone. After delivery, these hormone levels drop rapidly, potentially leading to skin changes and triggering rosacea in some women. Additionally, breastfeeding can also cause hormonal fluctuations that may contribute to rosacea.

Stress

The postpartum period can be physically and emotionally demanding for new mothers, with stress being a common factor during this time. Stress is a known trigger for rosacea flare-ups and may contribute to the development of rosacea after pregnancy.

Sleep deprivation

New mothers often experience sleep deprivation, which can weaken the immune system and make the skin more susceptible to inflammation and irritation, potentially leading to rosacea.

Immune system changes

Pregnancy affects the immune system, and these changes may persist for some time after delivery. A weakened or altered immune response may contribute to the development of rosacea in some women.

Genetics

Some people may have a genetic predisposition to rosacea, and the factors mentioned above may trigger the onset of the condition in those who are predisposed.

Skincare changes

The skincare routine of a new mother may change after giving birth, and the use of new or different skincare products may irritate the skin, potentially triggering rosacea.

While it is not entirely clear why some women develop rosacea after pregnancy, a combination of these factors may contribute to the onset of the condition. 

Managing Post-Pregnancy Rosacea

In some cases, rosacea persists after childbirth. While treating rosacea during breastfeeding, it’s crucial to use safe remedies that won’t harm the newborn. Natural treatments like lavender oil, chamomile, oatmeal, and green tea extracts are usually safe.

Topical treatments like azelaic acid and metronidazole are considered safe according to Dr. Wendy Jones, a specialist in breastfeeding and medication. Vitamin A derivatives like isotretinoin should be avoided due to potential harm to the infant. Always consult with a doctor before starting any treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rosacea during Pregnancy

Can pregnancy cause rosacea to flare up?

Yes, due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, skin disorders like rosacea may flare up in some pregnant women.

Is rosacea common in pregnancy?

While rosacea can occur during pregnancy, it’s not among the most common skin disorders experienced during this period.

Does pregnancy rosacea go away?

For many women, especially those without a prior genetic predisposition to rosacea, the condition often improves after childbirth. However, this is not a guarantee and symptoms may persist for some women.