It’s no secret that pregnant women experience many internal changes in their bodies, but what about the visible changes? One of the most common concerns for pregnant women is skin care.

What ingredients can you continue to use? What should you avoid? And… most importantly, how can you keep your skin healthy and glowing during pregnancy? This is the guide to a safe skincare routine during pregnancy.

Skin changes during pregnancy

Let’s start with the changes. Pregnancy is, as we all know, a very turbulent period in the life of all women. Not only your interior is reorganized, but also your skin undergoes many changes.

It is not uncommon for pregnant women to experience breakouts, dryness, itchiness, and even dark spots on their skin.

Stretch marks

Stretch marks are also a very common skin change that can occur during pregnancy. Although they cannot be completely avoided, there are some recommendations to minimize their appearance.

First of all, you must keep your skin well hydrated. Find a good quality stretch mark cream or oil and apply it to your skin two to three times a day.

If you start to see stretch marks forming, don’t worry. Keep up with your skincare routine and they will eventually disappear. Although you can’t completely prevent stretch marks, there are a few tricks to help minimize their appearance.

Outbreaks during pregnancy

Unfortunately, pregnancy-related outbreaks do exist. Increased hormone levels can cause the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Don’t worry, there are tricks to help control those outbreaks:

• Wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser. Avoid cleansers with harsh chemicals or exfoliating microbeads, as these can irritate the skin.
• Use a light, oil-free moisturizer to help control shine. If you use an acne treatment product, make sure it’s safe for pregnancy before continuing to use it.
• Exfoliate once a week with a cleanser or gentle scrub. This will help remove dead skin cells and keep your pores clean.

Dark spots during pregnancy

Another common skin change during pregnancy is the appearance of dark spots on the face, neck, chest, and hands. These dark spots, called melasma, chloasma, or “the mask of pregnancy,” are caused by increased hormone levels. Although they are harmless, they can be a bit frustrating.

There are some tricks to help control these dark spots:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a factor of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy days.
• Apply a light layer of foundation or concealer to help even out skin tone.
• Avoiding the sun can also help prevent dark spots from getting worse.

Itching during pregnancy

Itchy skin is another common complaint from pregnant women. The skin stretches as the belly grows, which can cause itchiness. Also, pregnancy hormones can cause dryness, which can lead to itchiness.

What can you do to relieve itchy skin?:

• Apply a moisturizer to the affected area several times a day.
• Take a cool bath or shower to help soothe itching.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing made of natural fibers such as cotton.
• Use a mild, fragrance-free laundry detergent.

Dry skin during pregnancy

This is another of the common skin changes during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can cause the skin to become sensitive. Also, increased blood volume can cause dehydration, which can also lead to dry skin.

What can you do to help control dryness?:

• Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
• Apply a moisturizer immediately after bathing.
• Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air.