Pregnancy marks a uniquely special time in every woman's life, serving as a profound period of physical and psychological transformation. While there is so much magic happening inside the body, nobody really prepares you for how much of that magic ripples out to the surface.
As the skin is deeply reactive to the internal shifts happening over the 9 months, let's take a look at what your body is doing, why it's completely normal, and how you can love the skin you are in through every trimester.
The main factors playing a role in skin changes are:
- Hormonal Surges: Estrogen, progesterone, and MSH (Melanocyte-stimulating hormone) skyrocket.
- Vascular Expansion: Blood volume increases by up to 50% to support pregnancy, placing extra pressure on blood vessels. Increased blood flow gives some women a beautiful, radiant look, but can also cause palmar erythema (red, warm palms) and spider veins on the face or legs. Pregnancy-related palmar erythema often improves after pregnancy.
- Sometimes, as the fetus grows, the skin stretches faster than its elastic fibres can handle. Reddish-purple lines on the abdomen, breasts, and hips start to form. Hydrated skin stretches safely, keeping the skin moisturised may help relieve dryness and itch.
- Melasma: Symmetrical brown or grayish patches that show up on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. This affects up to 75% of women and is triggered by UV exposure combined with high estrogen and progesterone.
- General Darkening: Existing moles, freckles, and scars often deepen in colour due to heightened melanin production.
- Linea Nigra: That famous dark vertical line running down the center of the abdomen.
PREGNANCY HORMONES (Breakouts or Dryness)
- Pregnancy Acne: Sebum (oil) production often ramps up significantly in the first trimester due to maternal androgens, causing sudden breakouts.
- Eczema and Itching: On the flip side, Atopic dermatitis (Eczema) can flare up, creating dry, intensely itchy patches on the body.
What topical products are safer to avoid?
- Retinoids (Vit. A derivatives)
- Hydroquinones
- High-strength Chemical Acids
- Certain Aromatherapy Oils
Favourite Product Picks during Pregnancy:
Dry skin snaps under pressure while hydrated skin stretches safely. Lamelle Centar Lotion features a powerful blend of beta-glucan, a humectant that holds 20% more moisture than hyaluronic acid, and is paired with Hyaluronic acid and Squalene. Safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding around the abdomen, breasts, and hips to prevent and treat stretch marks (when in the early purple/reddish stage), as well as pregnancy-related itching.
Suitable for all skin types but especially ideal for dry, sensitive, and rosacea-prone skin. Breaks down dead skin cells without stripping the skin's moisture barrier.
Utilizes gentle PHAs for mild exfoliation, to be used in the mornings with sunscreen and evenings after cleansing on the face and neck. Suitable for sensitive, flaking, and itching skin.
SKIN CONDITIONS AMONG NEWBORNS
A baby's skin is incredibly delicate and constantly adapting to the outside world. Because of this, many newborns experience harmless, temporary skin conditions like milia (tiny white bumps), neonatal acne, erythema toxicum, and cradle cap.
FAVOURITE PRODUCT PICKS FOR NEWBORNS
With 95% plant-based ingredients to soothe the scalp and prevent reappearance of cradle cap scales. Use after shampooing the scalp.
MUSTELA STELATOPIA ORGANIC CREAM
Strengthens fragile skin barriers with Omega 6 & 9 oils to soothe any irritations. Ideal for infant massages.
MUSTELA FOAMING SHAMPOO FOR NEWBORNS
Anti-bacterial ingredients to safely rinse away cradle cap scales.
Your skincare routine should be a safe and comforting ritual. Recognizing that healthy skin also originates from within, take this opportunity to provide your body with the proper rest and nutrition it needs during this special time for you and your baby.
DISCLAIMER
This article is for general skincare education only and does not replace advice from a qualified medical professional. Everyone’s skin is different, and some ingredients may not be suitable for all skin types, pregnancy, breastfeeding, medical conditions, or prescription treatments. Please consult a doctor, dermatologist, pharmacist, or qualified skincare professional if you are unsure.
Refs:
Journal: American Family Physician (AFP)
Article: "Common Skin Conditions During Pregnancy" (2023)
