Skin Changes During Pregnancy

by Valerie Gladstone — January 18, 2008

Your size isn't the only thing that changes during pregnancy -- so does your skin. You may see changes such as a sudden new glow on your face or pinkish, reddish streaks on your stomach. Not every pregnant woman will experience all the same skin changes. Though they may be unpleasant, just remember that they'll all disappear when you have your baby. Below is a list of skin changes that are common during pregnancy.

Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are one of the most talked about skin changes that can occur during pregnancy. Almost 90% of pregnant women will experience stretch marks. Stretch marks appear as pinkish or reddish streaks running down your abdomen and/or breasts.

What can I do? Exercising and applying lotions that contain vitamin E and alpha hydroxy acids have been said to help in the prevention of stretch marks. These remedies have not been medically proven to have a direct effect on stretch marks, but it never hurts to try. If you find that nothing is working for you, take comfort in knowing that these streaks will fade to silvery faint lines after delivery.

Mask of Pregnancy
What is this? "Mask of pregnancy" is also referred to as melasma and chlosma. Melasma causes dark splotchy spots to appear on your face. These spots most commonly appear on your forehead and cheeks and are a result of increased pigmentation. When you become pregnant, your body produces more hormones, which causes an increase in your pigmentation. Nearly 50% of pregnant women show some signs of the "mask of pregnancy."

What can I do? To prevent "mask of pregnancy" from happening to you, you should wear a good sunscreen that is at least SPF 15 whenever you plan to be outside. You should also wear a hat (with a 2" brim) to protect your face from the sun. Your skin is extra sensitive, and the sun increases your chances of these dark spots showing up on your face.

Pregnancy Glow
What is this? When you are pregnant your body produces 50% more blood, resulting in more blood circulation through your body. This increase in blood circulation causes your face to be brighter. Your body is also producing a fair amount of hormones that cause your oil glands to work in over drive, leaving your face shiny. Both of these things can result in the "pregnancy glow."

What can I do? If your skin becomes too oily you can use an oil free cleanser to clean your face. Other than that, do nothing but smile.

Pimple Breakouts and Acne
What is this? If you have a problem with acne already, your acne may become more irritated during pregnancy. The extra hormones in your body cause your oil glands to secrete more oil, which can cause breakouts.

What can I do? You should keep a strict cleansing routine. You can start with a simple over-the-counter face soap. It is a good idea to use fragrance-free soap to avoid nausea. Cleanse your face every night and every morning. Washing your face more than this can cause your skin to be dry. Next, use an astringent to remove any remaining oil. Stay away from any acne medicated astringents; they may contain acne medicine that may not be recommended for pregnant women. Finally, follow this procedure with an oil-free moisturizer. If you find that you are having problems with acne consult with your health care provider on acne treatment during pregnancy.