Skin Care Tips During Pregnancy As your baby and belly grow, you’ll notice some changes in your skin as well. Here are some tips to help protect your skin as your body adjusts to pregnancy:
· Manage Weight Gain: Follow your OB provider or midwife’s recommendations for weight gain. This will help minimize the amount of stretching your skin undergoes during pregnancy.
· Use Cocoa Butter: Cocoa butter can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and fade skin imperfections.
· Cleanse Gently: Keep your skin clean using gentle, moisturizing cleansers. Wash your face no more than twice a day to avoid over-drying.
· Moisturize and Protect from Sun: Use a daily moisturizer with at least SPF 15 to protect against UVA and UVB rays. This is important during pregnancy and beyond.
· Prevent Chloasma: Elevated hormone levels can cause increased skin pigmentation, leading to blotches called “chloasma” or the “mask of pregnancy.” Prevent this discoloration by using sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather. For better protection, use an SPF 30 sunscreen if you’ll be out in the midday sun.
· Address Increased Pigmentation: Some women experience increased pigmentation in areas not exposed to the sun, such as the breasts or belly. Increasing your intake of folic acid (a type of vitamin B) may slow this discoloration. You can do this by taking a supplement or, even better, by eating foods rich in folic acid like leafy greens, asparagus, broccoli, nuts, avocado, and beans.
Avoid Harsh Ingredients
During pregnancy, it’s important to avoid skincare products that contain harsh ingredients such as retinoids, salicylic acid, and certain essential oils. These ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream and potentially harm your developing baby. Always check product labels and consult with your healthcare provider before using any new skincare products.
“Skin Care Tips During Pregnancy”Pregnancy is a transformative experience that brings about many changes, including to your skin. By following these skin care tips, you can help manage these changes and keep your skin healthy and radiant. Remember, every woman’s skin reacts differently to pregnancy, so it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your skincare routine as needed. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your skin during pregnancy.
