So, you’re pregnant, congratulations! Along with all the excitement, there are some unexpected changes to your skin that you might have noticed. Suddenly, things like, dull skin, dark spots, and stretch marks are now somewhere on your bod. You are not alone, almost 90% of pregnant women experience some kind of skin change, thanks to hormones, metabolism shifts, and changes in blood flow.
Let’s talk about what you might be seeing in the mirror and, more importantly, how you can care for your skin safely while pregnant!
Hyperpigmentation and Melasma: Why Do I Have Dark Spots?
One of the most common pregnancy skin changes is hyperpigmentation. Basically, your skin might start darkening in certain areas, your face, neck, and belly are the prone spots for this. It’s all thanks to those lovely pregnancy hormones! And then there’s melasma, often called the “mask of pregnancy,” which shows up as brownish patches on your face. While it’s nothing to stress about, it can be frustrating.
The good news? These dark spots often lighten after you give birth, but in the meantime, make sure you’re protecting your skin. A sunscreen with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is your best friend and yes, it’s safe to use while you’re pregnant!
Stretch Marks: Will They Ever Go Away?
Ah, the famous stretch marks. If you’re wondering if you’ll get them, the answer is: probably! Stretch marks are super common, especially as your belly, thighs, and breasts grow. They might start out pink or purple, and then fade to a more silvery colour over time.
To help keep your skin hydrated and maybe reduce the intensity of those marks, try using moisturisers packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and glycerine, all safe for you and your baby.
Breakouts: Am I a Teenager Again?
If you thought acne was something you left behind in high school, pregnancy hormones might have in stored for you again. With all the extra oil you
r skin is producing, breakouts can happen. Don’t stress, ingredients like azelaic acid and benzoyl peroxide are safe to use while pregnant. However, run away from anything with retinoids, they’re not safe for you or the baby.
Hair Everywhere (And Nails, Too)
You might be noticing hair sprouting up in new places (hello, facial fuzz!). It’s due to higher levels of androgens during pregnancy. On the flip side, some women experience hair thinning or find that their nails become brittle. Don’t panic, most of these changes will go away after your little one arrives. In the meantime, be kind to your hair and nails by eating a nutrient-rich diet full of protein and vitamins! And oh, don’t get tempted to use Minoxidil, it has a high rate of absorption into your body and therefore not safe for the little one.
Choosing Safe Skincare During Pregnancy
Skincare while pregnant can feel like walking through a minefield, what’s safe and what’s not? Some ingredients, like hydroquinone and retinoic acid, are a definite no. But others, like vitamin C, vitamin E, and alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) in low concentrations, are safe and can help you keep that glow going strong.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy is a wild ride, full of unexpected (and sometimes unwelcome) surprises, especially for your skin. But just remember: it’s all temporary, and with the right care, you can keep your skin healthy and happy throughout your pregnancy. If you’re ever unsure about what products to use, your dermatologist can help you figure out what’s safe for both you and your growing little one.
So, take a deep breath, embrace the changes, you’re doing great!