Pregnancy Skin Care: The best skin care to use during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body is flooded with a whole new range of hormones that can completely change the skin. While some women may enjoy the famous ‘pregnancy glow’, others can experience new issues such as melasma, sensitivity and hormonal acne. Read our simple guide to answer your most common concerns and learn how to address them.

Why does skin feel sensitive for pregnant women?

Pregnancy can be a time of heightened anxiety and, coupled with a new rush of hormones, the skin can become extra sensitive. In fact, some experts believe this is a woman’s way of protecting her body and baby from infection and disease. If your skin does feel much drier and sensitive, you should ensure that your skin care during pregnancy is soothing yet simple. Look for minimalist formulas that contain hydrating and gentle ingredients such as glycerine, shea butter and hyaluronic acid.

How can I prevent melasma?

As the skin can become more sensitive during pregnancy, it also increases photosensitivity (its reaction to the sun’s UV rays). This stimulates the skin’s pigment hormones which can cause melasma – a skin condition characterised by patches of discolouration. “Melasma, a condition where melanocytes create an increased amount of pigment for the skin, results from both photo exposure and oestrogen exposure,” explains Dr. Zac Handler, dermatologist consultant. “While not exclusive to pregnant women, the increased oestrogen production during pregnancy has led the condition to be nicknamed the ‘mask of pregnancy’ ”.

While melasma often fades after pregnancy, it’s very important that you protect the skin on your face with broad-spectrum sun protection in a high SPF. Make sure you apply every morning as the last step in your pregnancy skin care routine. “Treatment for melasma is focused on reducing ultraviolet exposure to the affected areas with broad spectrum sunscreen and additional use of lightening creams, such as hydroquinone,” continues Dr. Handler. “It is important to note that if the pigment is in the dermal (deeper) layer of the skin, as opposed to the superficial epidermis, then treatment is more difficult. A board certified dermatologist is able to assist in making that distinction and recommending the proper treatment”.

How can I help prevent pregnancy stretch marks?

Stretch marks are a natural part of pregnancy that appear as pinkish streaks across the hips, stomach and breasts. They occur as the skin stretches and the fibres beneath the surface break apart to accommodate your growing baby, especially towards the third trimester when weight gain increases. You can help to prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks by applying a rich moisturiser morning and evening to areas that marks are most likely to appear. Continue applying a moisturiser throughout your pregnancy, especially when stretch marks do start to appear, as they are easier to treat when they are new.

The above article is provided for informational purposes only. Colgate does not accept any liability should the below recommendations have a contrary result to the intended result. Always seek the advice of a qualified doctor or dermatologist. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this article.