Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, filled with emotional and physical transformations. While you prepare for your new baby, your body may experience various changes, including shifts in skin condition. It’s essential to prioritize self-care during this time, especially when it comes to maintaining a pregnancy-safe skincare routine that nurtures your changing skin.
Hormones & Skin Changes During Pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones, especially oestrogen and progesterone, increase significantly, leading to a variety of skin responses. Many expectant mothers notice their skin changing in phases, with increased oil production and enhanced blood circulation often creating a “pregnancy glow.” However, hormone shifts can also bring unexpected skin concerns, such as breakouts, hyperpigmentation, and heightened sensitivity.
Managing Hormonal Breakouts
For some, the surge in pregnancy hormones and extra oil production can lead to breakouts and congestion. Those prone to oily skin or hormonal acne may notice an uptick in blemishes. A gentle, consistent cleansing routine is key to keeping pores clear. Try double cleansing morning and evening to reduce impurities effectively. Active Clay Cleanser is an excellent second cleanser that absorbs excess oil and balances skin with prebiotics, promoting a clearer, healthier complexion.
For deep, stubborn breakouts, Dermalogica’s Deep Breakout Liquid Patch offers a safe solution, forming an invisible barrier to target hidden breakouts and quickly reduce inflammation—all safe for use during pregnancy.
Tackling Melasma (Hyperpigmentation)
Hyperpigmentation, or melasma, affects up to 70% of pregnant women, leading to uneven pigmentation. Sensitive pigment-producing cells react strongly to pregnancy hormones, often causing a dull or uneven skin tone. Exfoliating regularly can help remove pigmented cells, but strong acid-based exfoliants should be avoided during pregnancy. Daily Microfoliant, a gentle powder exfoliant with brightening properties, is ideal for safe exfoliation.
Pair exfoliation with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent pigmentation from worsening under sun exposure. Vitamin C-based products can also help minimize pigmentation and boost brightness, creating a radiant complexion.
Soothing Sensitivity
Pregnancy hormones can leave skin more sensitive to skincare products, environmental elements, and even stress. The key is to keep your routine simple and soothing. Avoid overloading your regimen with new products, and instead choose gentle, calming solutions like those in Dermalogica’s UltraCalming line, which hydrates and nourishes sensitive skin. Reducing stress through self-care techniques can also help keep skin calm.
Ingredients to Avoid
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, avoid retinoids such as retinol and isotretinoin, as well as certain essential oils, which may not be safe. All cosmetic products that pose a risk will have warning labels, but when in doubt, consult with your healthcare provider before introducing any new products.
By following these simple steps and using pregnancy-safe products, you can support healthy, glowing skin throughout your pregnancy. Visit McGorisks Pharmacy to explore Dermalogica’s line of safe, effective skincare tailored to meet the needs of expectant mothers.