The perfect skincare routine for when you’re pregnant

Everything changes

Our hormones have a lot to answer for, especially during pregnancy, when they can go into overdrive, leaving the skin either glowing or glum. 

“Rising progesterone levels combined with dipping oestrogen leads to an increased production of sebum, which congests the pores and causes breakouts,” says dermatologist Dr Mukta Sachdev of MS Skin Centre in Bengaluru.

SKINCARE CONCERNS DURING PREGNANCY

Apart of breakouts, you may develop patches of pigmentation, caused by a temporary increase in melanin, the substance that gives skin its colour.

“Melasama shows up on the forehead, cheekbones, upper lip and chin, hence the nickname ‘the mask of pregnancy’,” explains Dr Sachdev. 

“Existing moles and the areola around the nipples can darken too, and linea nigra—a dark stripe down the centre of the bump—is also common,” she says. 

If you were blessed with a pregnancy glow, your postnatal complexion can be quite the opposite. 

“Hormonal changes can strip skin of its natural oils, making it drier; lack of sleep can bring on dullness and dark circles; breastfeeding may leave skin dehydrated; and the dreaded stretch marks can become visible too,” Dr Sachdev adds.

SKINCARE RULES FOR PREGNANT AND BREASTFEEDING WOMEN

• Keep skincare simple: During pregnancy and breastfeeding, keep your skincare regime simple with products that are non-medicated, and fragrance- and paraben-free. If breakouts are a problem, pick a gentle face wash or moisturiser containing anti-inflammatory niacinamide like Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream Moisturizer. Dry, flaky patches can be nourished with a rich, soothing moisturiser. We like Avène Rich Compensating Cream. “Moisturisers containing shea butter, avocado oil and Vitamin E can combat dryness, itching and stretch marks from a growing bump,” advises Dr Sachdev.
• Fight pigmentation: Daily use of a sunscreen can stop pigmentation from developing or aggravating. “Most discolouration should fade about three months after birth. If it persists, a kojic acid cream in low concentration can be used post-breastfeeding,” says Dr Sachdev. “Alternatively, see a dermatologist who can prescribe a lightening agent.”
• Post-pregnancy solutions: “After birth and breastfeeding, antibacterial creams with benzoyl peroxide or clindamycin are safe options for fighting flare-ups,” shares Dr Sachdev. Eye creams and serums formulated with Vitamins C and E can revive a sleep-deprived complexion, especially under the eye zone.
• Eat well: Once the baby arrives, you may rely on coffee as fuel to keep you going, but too much of it will simply dehydrate skin further. A balanced diet and plenty of water are imperative for keeping skin healthy from within.