Here’s what to expect when you’re expecting.
– KEYS SOULCARE
Pregnancy impacts everything in your life — including your beauty routine. Bringing a new human into the world requires your body to make amazing shifts, which can change the entire landscape of your skin. From texture to oiliness, pregnancy requires you to give your body a little more TLS — tender loving soulcare — as you prepare to receive one of life’s greatest gifts.
Here’s what you need to know about pregnancy, skin, and safety so you can keep your glow as you grow.
What causes pregnancy skin?
At the root of your skin changes are hormones. During pregnancy, your body’s fluctuation of hormones intensifies, causing an array of skin conditions. Perhaps the most famous change is the “pregnancy glow,” which is due to increased blood flow and oil production in your body.
What are some skin changes to expect during pregnancy?
These are some of the common skin conditions expectant parents should look out for:
- Hyperpigmentation. Dark spots will usually appear on the chest, inner thighs, and other areas with increased friction. Melasma (a.k.a. the “mask of pregnancy) can also form, causing dark patches on the face that cover your cheeks, nose, and forehead.
- Linea nigra. This is the brown-ish “pregnancy line” that develops vertically along the belly due to increased melanin production.
- Stretch marks. As your baby grows, stretch marks develop, spreading along the chest, thighs, and stomach area.
- Acne. Increased oil production in the skin can lead to breakouts throughout pregnancy.
- Spider and varicose veins. Due to blood flow changes, veins can swell, increase in visibility, or become sore, but these vein conditions usually clear up after giving birth.
What are pregnancy-safe skincare recommendations?
A general rule of thumb? Be gentle. Avoiding harsh ingredients like retinols, chemicals, or strenuous routines is best for you and your baby. Seeking clean skincare formulas and keeping the skin’s surface free of dirt and debris through cleansing and exfoliation can reduce breakouts. (Plus, clear skin can allow moisturizing agents to penetrate the skin more easily, which is especially a win for those experiencing dryness.)
The safest skincare routine is the one made just for you. Even if you’ve been pregnant before, you can have a different skin experience during each pregnancy. Additionally, various factors like prescription medicine, pre-existing skin conditions, and more can affect the skin and your situation. To keep your glow in tip-top shape, discuss pregnancy-safe skincare with your dermatologist and OB/GYN.
Congratulations on your bundle of joy! Share your favorite pregnancy self-care ritual in the comments!
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