[Acne therapy in pregnancy]

Acne should be treated during pregnancy to prevent worsening, scarring, secondary infection or psychological impairment of the mother. Safe products must be chosen. Systemic tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline or isotretinoin can not be used. Topical benzoyl peroxide or topical azelaic acid are safe therapeutic options. According to the guidelines, systemic corticosteroids or systemic erythromycin (the latter not in lactation) can be employed beginning in the second trimester for severe flares of acne and should be started in cooperation with the patient's gynecologist. Oral zinc is another option, but not for longer than 3 months. Accessory cosmetic measures may be useful, including mechanical peeling or chemical peeling with glycolic or alpha-hydroxy-acids. In contrast, salicylic acid, trichloracetic acid or phenol peels should not be performed in pregnancy. Camouflage makeup can clearly lower the psychological stress.