Looking after your skin during Pregnancy
Pregnancy can cause a number of changes to your skin due to hormonal increase and blood flow. Problems that arise with skin during pregnancy can be separated into three catagories:
- Pregnancy related.
- Hormone related.
- Pre-existing conditions
Stretch Marks
One of the first things you associate with pregnancy is stretch marks. The collagen of your skin is stretched to the limit, causing fissures which leave red, brown or purple stretch marks. They often appear on abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks and thighs during the second and third trimesters.
Including the following Vitamins in your diet is the best option to help minimize stretch marks:
- Vitamin C – fresh fruit and vegetables.
- Vitamin E – almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, peanut butter, sunflower oil and seeds, safflower, corn and olive oils.
- Zinc – lean red meats, lamb, pork, chicken and turkey have the highest concentration of Zinc. Cereals, pumpkin and sesame seeds are also a good source of zinc.
The good news, help is at hand – in the Environ range there is AVST Vitamin A, C and E Face and Body Oil which helps to fade stretch marks post-pregnancy.
Dehydrated Skin
The changes taking place in your body could make your skin dry, itchy and feeling tight. To combat this drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Use a spritz to refresh and rehydrate and remember to moisturise day and night to help keep skin looking and feeling good.
Sensitivity
Skin can be highly sensitive during pregnancy, skin products, perfume, make-up and washing powder can irritate the skin. Be gentle with your skin and use products that hydrate the skin and are free from acids and retinol. Why not consider changing your makeup to mineral makeup due to the sensitivities that may arise during pregnancy. Jane Iredale – The Skincare Makeup sell a PurePressed base mineral foundation with a SPF20 UVA/UVB. This foundation is so easy and quick to apply.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins may develop anytime during pregnancy and tend to get larger as you get bigger. The enlarged varicose veins in the legs are due to the uterus exerting greater pressure on these veins. The extra volume of blood is essential to support two growing bodies. Some women find it beneficial to put their feet up and rest legs to minimize swelling. These generally improve 3 to 12 months after birth.
Acne
Many Mums to be get acne during pregnancy, even if they have never had it before, this is due to the heightened hormone activity. Try products that are poven safe to use during pregnancy. Wash with a gentle cleanser and avoid picking spots and blemishes. Dermalogica have the clear range for Acne with the oil clearing Matte moisturizer that minimizes oil and shine.
Pigmentation
Pigmentation also know as Melasma is a common skin condition with light, grey or dark skin that can affect anyone, but is particularly common in women during pregnancy, and those taking oral or patch contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. Research suggests Melasma can be triggered by stress. The areas affected are breasts, skin on inner thighs and a dark line on the naval down to the pubic bone (linea nigra) can appear. Dark patches may develop on your face (chloasma). Sunshine normally worsens the condition, so ensure to use a pregnancy safe sun lotion or avoid the sun. Melasma can run in families, suggesting an inherited tendency.
Products which are safe to use during pregnancy and contain the following ingredients:
- Antioxidants, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, and SPF.
The following products should be avoided:
- Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Vitamin A and Retinol
You will be happy to know that most skin condition problems during pregnancy should clear after the baby is born.
Whatever problems you are experiencing with your skin during pregnancy it may be beneficial to have a consultation with one of our skin therapists who can perform a face mapping and identify what products would suit your skin.