Expecting Beauty | Mastering Skincare During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that brings about numerous changes in a person’s body, both internally and externally. To shed light on the transformative effects on the skin during this extraordinary time, we turned to Dr Kate Jameson, an expert in the field and the founder and medical director of Youth Lab, Australia’s leading medical aesthetics clinic specializing in non-surgical aesthetics and skin rejuvenation.

The skin’s response to pregnancy varies from person to person. Some may experience acne breakouts or dryness, while others may revel in the famous pregnancy glow. Hormonal fluctuations, increased blood circulation, and the stretching of the abdomen contribute to various skin concerns that pregnant women encounter. In this article, we delve into each trimester’s changes, offering effective treatment options and skincare tips to help mothers-to-be maintain healthy, radiant skin throughout their pregnancy and beyond.

First Trimester: Establishing a Solid Foundation

Congratulations on the exciting news! During the first trimester, the body experiences a surge in hormones, particularly oestrogen and progesterone. These hormonal changes can lead to skin alterations such as acne breakouts, increased oiliness, or dryness. To manage these changes effectively, a few simple steps in your home routine are usually all that’s needed:

• Gentle cleansing: Use a mild cleanser to cleanse the face twice daily. Avoid harsh scrubbing to prevent skin sensitivity.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within. Use pregnancy-safe moisturizers and serums to nourish and protect your skin barrier.
• Sun protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield your skin from harmful UV rays and help prevent pigmentation changes.

Spot treat any blemishes: Opt for topical treatments deemed safe during pregnancy to deal with occasional breakouts. Always consult with your healthcare provider or dermatologist before using any new product.

Second Trimester: Embracing the Glow

The second trimester brings positive changes to the skin – the pregnancy glow you’ve heard so much about! Increased blood flow and collagen production give your complexion a healthy luminosity. However, hormonal changes may still contribute to pigmentation issues like melasma, resulting in dark patches on the skin. Follow these tips to maintain your skin’s radiance:

• Safe exfoliation: Use mild exfoliants like lactic acid or fruit enzymes to promote a brighter complexion without harsh physical scrubs.
• Melasma management: Protect your skin from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat and sun-protective clothing. Consult with a dermatologist for safe topical treatments like azelaic acid or vitamin C to help fade hyperpigmentation.
• Stretch mark prevention: Moisturize your growing body with a rich, hydrating cream or oil containing shea butter, cocoa butter, and vitamin E to improve skin elasticity and minimize stretch marks.

Third Trimester: Supporting Skin Elasticity

In the final trimester, the abdomen expands rapidly, causing itching, stretch marks, and dryness. To alleviate these discomforts and promote skin elasticity:

• Soothe itching: Apply fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers to relieve itching caused by stretching skin. Avoid hot showers and opt for lukewarm baths with gentle cleansers.
• Comfortable clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothing made from natural fibres to prevent irritation and aid in skin ventilation.
• Calming baths: Add colloidal oatmeal or baking soda to your bathwater to soothe itching and reduce inflammation, avoiding essential oils that can irritate sensitive skin.

Post-Birth: Caring for Your Skin and Self

After giving birth, the body undergoes further changes as it transitions back to its pre-pregnancy state. Hormonal fluctuations, postpartum hair loss, and potential skin dryness can occur. Here’s how to care for your skin during this phase:

• Gentle cleansing and moisturizing: Continue using mild cleansers and hydrating moisturizers to restore the skin’s moisture balance.
• Be patient with hair loss: Postpartum hair loss is common but temporary. Be gentle with your hair and avoid excessive heat styling. Consult a dermatologist if the hair loss persists.
• Self-care and stress management: Prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation, such as taking walks, deep breathing exercises, and getting enough rest to positively impact your skin’s overall health.

Gentle In-Clinic Treatments to Soothe Pregnancy Skin Ailments:

• LED light treatment: Ideal for calming sensitive skin and reducing inflammation caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy.
• Hydrafacial: Offers gentle yet effective skincare to maintain skin vitality without harshness, infused with pregnancy-safe ingredients.
• Mild peels: Surface-level peels with gentle exfoliation to reveal fresher skin without potentially harmful chemicals.
• Advanced facials: Pregnancy-safe facials to address hormonal changes, hyperpigmentation, and sensitivity while providing a relaxing experience.
• Manual lymphatic drainage: A specialized technique to mobilize excess fluid and provide relief from puffiness and swelling.

Skincare Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy:

• Retinol/Vitamin A: Avoid high doses of Vitamin A due to potential birth defects.
• Hydroquinone: Not suitable for expectant mothers due to its high absorption rate.
• High doses of salicylic acid: Opt for low-dose salicylic acid or avoid products with 2% or more during pregnancy.

With these insights, you have the tools to maintain beautiful skin throughout your pregnancy journey. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider or dermal care professional for personalized advice based on your unique needs. Celebrate this extraordinary time in your life by caring for your skin and prioritizing your overall well-being. Congratulations on your beautiful journey to motherhood!

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