Skin care during pregnancy

Patient Information Sheet: Skin Care During Pregnancy

Introduction:

Congratulations on your pregnancy! During this special time, taking care of your skin is important not only for your appearance but also for your overall well-being. Pregnancy brings about many changes in your body, including hormonal fluctuations that can affect your skin. This information sheet aims to provide guidance on safe and effective skin care practices during pregnancy.

Skin Changes During Pregnancy:

Pregnancy hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can lead to various changes in your skin. Common skin changes during pregnancy may include:

  1. Glowing Skin: Some women experience a radiant glow due to increased blood circulation and oil gland activity.
  2. Hyperpigmentation: Dark patches or uneven skin tone, known as melasma or the “mask of pregnancy,” may develop on the face, abdomen, or other areas exposed to the sun.
  3. Stretch Marks: Rapid stretching of the skin, especially in the abdomen and breasts, can result in the formation of stretch marks or striae.
  4. Acne: Hormonal fluctuations may trigger or exacerbate acne breakouts.
  5. Sensitive Skin: Some women may experience increased sensitivity or irritation in their skin.

Safe Skin Care Practices:

  1. Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, soap-free cleanser to wash your face and body. Avoid harsh chemicals, fragrances, and exfoliants that may irritate the skin.
  2. Moisturise: Keep your skin hydrated by applying a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturiser regularly, especially after bathing.
  3. Sun Protection: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and broad-spectrum protection. Choose a physical sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are considered safe during pregnancy. Tinted sunscreens are ideal to minimise the formation of melasma.
  4. Acne Management: Use gentle, pregnancy-safe products to manage acne. Avoid retinoids (such as Retin-A or tretinoin), salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide, as they may pose risks during pregnancy. Instead, opt for products containing lactic acid, azelaic acid or glycolic acid, which are considered safe in moderation.
    Examples: Avene Cleanance wash and moisturiser and serum.
  5. Hair Removal: If you choose to remove unwanted hair, consider using safe methods such as shaving, waxing, or tweezing. Avoid chemical depilatories and laser hair removal during pregnancy.
  6. Nail Care: Use nail polish and nail polish removers in well-ventilated areas to minimise exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. Keep nails trimmed to reduce the risk of injury and infection.

Self-Care Tips:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
  2. Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support skin health.
  3. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or prenatal yoga to reduce stress, which can impact your skin.
  4. Get Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to promote skin repair and regeneration.
  5. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and environments. If you experience any irritation or discomfort, discontinue use and seek advice from your healthcare provider.
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