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How To Look After Your Skin During Pregnancy

Posted by Ellie Swain on Jan 14th 2022

How To Look After Your Skin During Pregnancy

You have a little one on the way – congratulations!

Becoming a mother is a milestone moment in any woman’s life, but it comes with its own challenges. One of these is the changes your skin experiences.

A woman’s body goes through many hormonal changes during pregnancy, which can significantly affect the skin. In most cases, skin and hair problems like acne, dull skin, and hair fall resolve naturally after the first trimester. For many, the skin can look beautiful and radiant after these challenges.

For other women, the reverse is true. Some women may experience a flare-up of acne and an increase in pigmentation during pregnancy. These skincare issues are very common and are coined as the ‘pregnancy mask’ or ‘melasma.’

So, how do you deal with your skin during perhaps one of the most sensitive periods of your life? We’re here to walk you through it.

Don’t skip your skincare routine

Some women decide to use absolutely zero products during pregnancy to follow a more natural lifestyle. While it isn’t a good idea to pile on the products, going completely bare isn’t wise either.

You still need a cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturizer at the minimum to keep your skin in good health. Consider using natural and organic products if this makes you feel more comfortable.

Moisturizing is key

Be sure to moisturize your face and body frequently to prevent stretch marks, reduce itchiness, and soothe dry skin caused by pregnancy.

Moisturize all over, especially the areas that can get particularly dry, like the knees, elbows, and nipples.

The best pregnancy-safe moisturizers are developed with natural ingredients like avocado peptides and ceramides to keep the skin hydrated and healthy. They should also be hypoallergenic, compatible with breastfeeding, and safe for both mom and baby.

Introducing hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine is a good idea. The PCASkin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum delivers deep, long-lasting hydration on three levels: on the surface, deep in the skin, and by increasing the skin’s own hyaluronic acid production.

The skin is left deeply hydrated, soft, and supple.

View & Shop: PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum

Don’t forget the sunscreen

Due to heightened sensitivity, your skin may have challenges dealing well with the sun or any new skincare products.

While you should wear sunscreen daily year-round, applying it during pregnancy is particularly important as your skin is more sensitive to the sun at this time.

When you go out in the sun, be sure to wear protective clothing like a hat and sunglasses. You should apply about half a teaspoon of sunscreen SPF 30 or above and touch it up every two to three hours for the best protection against the sun’s harsh rays.

Use vitamin C

While there are several skincare ingredients you should skip during pregnancy, vitamin C isn’t one of them.

Vitamin C is an excellent antioxidant and is totally safe to use during pregnancy. It brightens up your complexion while also helping with tissue repair and healing.

We’re a big fan of the TuelC Power Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum. This super-powered serum firms, plumps and makes the skin more radiant. It works to brighten and protect the skin and fights aging.

The secret to its multi-tasking power lies in a powerful blend of antioxidant vitamin C and lactic and malic acids, which firm and brighten the skin. The serum also contains L-tyrosine, an essential amino acid, and vitamin B5, which softens and improves the look of fine lines.

View & Shop: Tuel C Power Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum

Say no to retinoids

While you may love your favorite retinol cream, you need to avoid any products containing retinoids or salicylic acid during pregnancy.

Some studies have shown that consistent use of retinoids during pregnancy can cause congenital disabilities. While retinoids and salicylic acid may contribute to clearer, blemish-free skin, they’re best avoided during pregnancy and when you’re trying to conceive.

But don’t worry, there are other options. Bakuchiol is growing popular as the natural alternative to retinol that’s safe for pregnant women.

Don't use your usual anti-acne spot treatments either

Unfortunately, it’s time to put away your anti-acne treatments too. Benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin should be avoided during pregnancy, even if you experience a sudden bout of acne.

Instead, try mild AHA topicals available in pharmacies and beauty counters that contain glycolic acid. This ingredient can help treat acne and is completely safe for pregnant women to use.

Other safe, topical options include erythromycin or azelaic acid, but these are by prescription only and must be used under your doctor’s guidance.

Do you want more skincare advice? Learn about Skin Care for Stretch Marks here .