Pregnancy is a beautiful phase in any woman’s life. It also comes with some related issues because the female body and organs go through several hormonal, metabolic, immunological, and vascular changes.
The “pregnancy glow” is very much real, and so are the other skin-related issues like hyperpigmentation, unwanted growths, acne, etc. Women struggle with multiple post-partum issues and sometimes, skin problems can affect their self-esteem.
Let us understand what happens, how it happens, and the best way to take care of your skin during pregnancy.
Hyperpigmentation is very common during pregnancy due to elevated levels of hormones. It can affect any part of the body but is usually more visible on the face (Melasma), around the nipples, underarms, and the genital areas.
Striae distensae or stretch marks develop in most pregnant women at the end of the second trimester and the beginning of the third due to partial tears in the structures of the skin.
Any recent scars or freckles get more obvious, along with acne breakouts and the development of skin tags.
Other physiological changes include:
- Hypertrichosis (increased facial hair)
- Brittle nails
- Vascular changes ( increased appearance of blood vessels)
- Increased sweating
Apart from the above-mentioned physiological changes, certain skin conditions are specific to pregnancy and need to be addressed on priority by a Dermatologist.
- Pemphigoid gestationis- fluid-filled blisters all over the body
- PUPP - raised red lesions with itching
- Atopic eruption of pregnancy - dryness, and itchiness all over the body
- ICP - intractable itching with deranged liver profile
Use of safe skincare products
It is a normal tendency to use skincare products but not all of them are safe. Skin products act by getting absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin and it can affect your baby or may lead to allergic reaction for sensitive skin. Thus, it is extremely important to use safe products for your and the baby’s wellbeing.
WAvoid products that include
- Retinoids: Both topical (creams, serums), as well as oral (isotretinoin) retinoids
- Skin lightening products since it includes Hydroquinone
- Arbutin
- Products with Salicylic acid
- Chemical sunscreens
Safe Products include
- Gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers
- Hyaluronic acid
- Benzoyl Peroxide (safe in limited amounts)
- Vitamin C serum
- Salicylic acid in low doses
- Physical sunscreens
It is a tough task to maintain a skincare routine with so many hormonal and physiological changes. The safety of the baby takes the foremost priority. But do not worry, talk to us at Alovia clinic for any skin-related issues and our expert Dr. Naren Prakash will guide you and help you to chalk out the best skincare program during your pregnancy.
Visit your dermatologist at Alovia clinic for a pregnancy-specific skincare routine, please click here and send a query to Alovia Clinic, or reach out to our expert Dr. Naren Parkash