Your Skin During Pregnancy: Common Problems and Solutions

Pregnancy is definitely not as glamorous as Hollywood makes it out to be. In addition to things like nausea, overactive bladder and gas, your skin makes some rather unpleasant changes too. While the coveted pregnancy glow does exist, it does not just appear with no work on your part. The good news is, with a little work, you can maintain good skin and fight back against those pregnancy hormones.

Oily Skin and Acne

Yes, the skin from your teen years may come back to haunt you during pregnancy. However, you can fight back. First, do not stop using moisturizer, just use one that is oil-free. The same goes for sunscreen. Use an oil-free version. Second, when you wash your face, choose a soap-free, mild cleanser. Something like Cetaphil is often a good choice. You also want to make sure not to over-wash your face.

When choosing your make-up, go oil-free as well. This includes your powder. Believe it or not, there are powders out there that have oil in them. Also, never sleep in make-up.

Watch your diet. You are what you eat and so is your skin. Eat a well-balanced diet and avoid junk foods and your skin will show this.

Do not use any oral or topical acne medications or creams before talking to your doctor. Some of these may be harmful to your unborn baby.

Discolored Skin

Your hormones are on high and this could lead to some skin discolorations. During this time, make sunscreen your best friend. Again, an oil-free version. Also, make sure that you are taking your prenatal vitamins and that your folic acid levels are normal. Avoid skin bleaches, peels and other chemical lighteners.

Dry Skin

If you feel more like an alligator mama, you are not alone. Dry skin is not uncommon during pregnancy, though it is definitely a pain. First, try Cetaphil (or something similar) for washing to prevent your skin from drying out. While hot showers and baths may be great for your aching muscles, they are not great for your skin. Limit these and try to use lukewarm water for most bathing.

At least twice daily, and definitely after bathing, slather on the moisturizer. Use an unscented version and be religious with this. Also, make sure to do this prior to going to bed so your skin has time to soak it in. Using a humidifier as you sleep is also beneficial.

Drink and eat well. Your diet plays a big role in the condition of your skin. Healthy fats can be beneficial for healthy skin. Also, hydrate. Drink plenty of water because being hydrated on the inside will help you stay hydrated on the outside.

If eczema is an issue, talk to your doctor about the best ways to keep your eczema under control during your pregnancy.

Stretch Marks

The dreaded stretch marks. Pregnancy's battle scars. Many women get these and you can help to minimize these as your tot grows inside. First, try to stay within your weight gain guidelines that your healthcare provider sets forth. Obviously, gaining a lot more weight than you should puts you at risk for more stretch marks.

Again, diet plays a big role. While there is no guarantee, a healthy diet may help to reduce your changes of developing stretch marks.

Cocoa butter is also beneficial, as is shea butter. Apply one, or both, of these liberally and daily. They are not a miracle prevention, but they may help. Studies contradict each other, but keeping the skin soft can't hurt.

Resources

WebMD: Pregnancy Skin Care