Your Pregnant Skin
Skin changes during pregnancy can be very distressing. It may be so hard to see women around you who seem to glow and look even better pregnant, whereas your skin looks like a train wreck….
Pregnancy can cause a number of changes in your skin. The majority of them happen due to shifts in your hormones and blood flow.
- Pigmentation changes. The area around your nipples and the skin on your inner thighs, genitals and neck might darken. This is usually due to hormonal changes. A dark line from your navel to your pubic bone is known as linea nigra. Dark patches might develop on your face that are commonly in a butterfly pattern, over forehead, cheeks and upper lip (chloasma). Sun exposure and heat can worsen chloasma, so be careful to avoid these. After childbirth, skin should return to its normal pigment, but it may take several months. However, some dark patches due to chloasma might never go away on their own. Ask the Doctor if there are treatments that may help you after pregnancy and breastfeeding are over.
- Acne. Some women have trouble with acne and increased oiliness during pregnancy. To assist with lessening acne, wash with a gentle cleanser. Shampoo your hair regularly. Please don’t pick blemishes which can result in scarring and be careful about what touches your skin. Many usual acne treatments are prohibited during pregnancy, so be sure to ask your Doctor which are allowed.
- Stretch marks. Stretch marks (striae) are indented streaks that often appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks and thighs. They’re caused by the stretching of the skin and are common during the second and third trimesters. Many creams, ointments and other products claim to prevent or treat stretch marks. However, treatments are only partially effective and won’t remove stretch marks completely. If you are prone to developing stretch marks (which often run in families), it is almost impossible to prevent them coming. It may help to try keep your weight as stable as possible and not gain excessive weight, but even a normal weight can still be associated with striae. Once pregnancy and breastfeeding are over, The Centre of Wellness has a specific laser called the Fractional Laser which will help to fade and tighten the striae to be as light and tight as possible.
If you feel you need help during pregnancy, the first step is to find out what is safe, since much may not be allowed while you are pregnant. The next step is to find a knowledgeable therapist who can travel the journey with you, keeping your skin as calm as it possibly can be.
Enjoy this special time as your baby grows in your belly. Be patient with your body and your skin. It’s doing the best it can. And if you need help, give us a call!