Ten Pregnancy Skin Care Tips for Expectant Mothers

Pregnancy is usually a period of many changes due to changing hormonal levels. While pregnancy brings a lot of happiness and joy, the hormonal changes sometimes bring along some skin problems like acne, pigmentation problems, dry and itchy skin, varicose veins, brittle nails and hair, etc. A part of feeling good during pregnancy is also looking good because skin problems can sometimes cause a lot of stress.

Unfortunately, you have less freedom in using skin care products during pregnancy as some of them may be harmful to the unborn baby. There are several ways in which you can overcome this limitation. Here are ten pregnancy skin care tips for expectant mothers.

1. Acne is the most common problem that plagues pregnant women. You should avoid using any akin care products that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or any one of the retinoids. If possible, it is best to avoid using any products having chemical ingredients. If you have to use them at all, consult a dermatologist to find out what is safe for you. The natural way to avoid acne problems is to clean your face regularly because it is oilier than other parts of the body and clogged pores can bring on the acne. Use a mild soap for this. Using oil free moisturizers and cleaners and a natural sunscreen may also help. Eat healthy food and drink plenty of water. Remember that this is a temporary problem and therefore if nothing else works, just grin and bear it.

2. To prevent stretch marks and dry skin you will need to apply some oils daily. You can either use these oils by mixing them or separately or find some natural products that contain them. The oils that are helpful for the skin during pregnancy are coconut oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, castor oil, wheat germ oil and avocado oil. The mixture should be applied on your breasts, abdomen, thighs and buttocks as these are the areas prone to dry skin and stretch marks.

3. During the pregnancy period due to hormonal changes the hair goes into a dormant or resting phase and there is little hair loss. After pregnancy this hair begins to fall in greater quantities than usual. This may cause a little worry but it is natural and there is no danger of going bald. Some women experience brittle nails and their nails tend to crack or split. The nails will need regular attention during this time. However this condition is temporary and will resolve soon. If the condition gets too aggravated you can consult a specialist who may recommend safe topical nail strengtheners.

4. Some essential oils are not safe for use during pregnancy especially during the first and the second trimesters as they may bring about an abortion of the fetus. These essential oils are Cinnamon, Basil, Juniper, Lemongrass, Thyme, Sweet marjoram, Myrrh, Peppermint, Pennyroyal, Rosemary and Parsley. Some essential oils on the other hand can be put to very good use to relieve the common symptoms of pregnancy and you can consult an aromatherapist about these.

5. Moisturizing the skin often during pregnancy will be of great help. This is because the skin tends to be drier than usual during this period. If you have an oily skin then you can use a water based moisturizer and if your skin is dry then use one that is oil based. For healthy skin during pregnancy a regular routine of cleaning and moisturizing must be followed.

6. In the initial stages of breastfeeding women usually suffer form cracked nipples. Lanolin based creams can be used safely without harming you baby. They will heal and soothe the sore nipples. You can also use it as a preventive after each feed. Read instructions before use. It has been observed that leaving a small quantity of milk on the nipple also helps in bringing relief.

7. Some pregnant women suffer form varicose veins and this condition is better prevented than treated during pregnancy. The best ways to prevent occurrence of varicose veins is to take a daily gentle walk, avoid standing for long periods, whenever possible place your feet and legs in an elevated position, avoid excessive weight gain and avoid crossing your legs while sitting.

8. To avoid skin irritation during pregnancy use only natural soaps. Soaps using an extra bit of coconut oil are quite good. Use only soaps made from vegetable oils that don't contain any perfume, chemicals or dyes. You can get natural soaps at a health food store.

9. A skin pigmentation problem that affects some women during pregnancy is known as the pregnancy mask or chloasma. It affects women with darker complexions more than others. Patches of pigmented dark skin usually appear on the woman's face and also around the nipples and between the thighs. Some women also experience the 'line of pregnancy' or linea nigra which is a dark line of pigmentation that runs down the abdomen. These conditions are aggravated by exposure to sunlight. The best way to handle these pigmentation problems is to avoid sun exposure as much as possible or if necessary use a safe sunscreen made from natural products.

10. A natural, safe and cheap method for relieving itchy skin is to add a little bicarbonate of soda into your bath water. A cup of soda added to the water in your bathtub will usually do the trick. It will reduce the itching and soften your skin as an added bonus. Avoid using scented bath products and use only natural soaps while bathing.