Navigating Skincare During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: A Gentle Guide

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are monumental times in a woman’s life. They bring about not just changes to your lifestyle but also to your skin. Understanding these changes and how to care for your skin during these times can help you feel more comfortable and confident. This guide is here to walk you through the journey of skincare during pregnancy and breastfeeding, highlighting the changes you might experience and offering solutions to common skin concerns.

how skin changes

During pregnancy, your body undergoes a whirlwind of hormonal fluctuations. These changes can have a direct impact on your skin, sometimes making it more sensitive and reactive than usual. Increased hormone levels can enhance oil production, making your skin prone to breakouts or oily in texture. Conversely, some women might find their skin drier and more susceptible to irritation. Understanding these shifts is the first step towards adapting your skincare routine to your body's new needs.

Main Skin Concerns and How to Treat Them

hormonal acne

Hormonal shifts during pregnancy often trigger breakouts, typically referred to as hormonal acne. To manage this, it's advisable to use gentle skincare items such as mild cleansers, non-comedogenic oily free moisturisers and sunscreen. Ingredients such as Niacinamide, Azelaic acid, and mild AHAs like Lactic acid and Glycolic acid can be beneficial during pregnancy for controlling acne. They work by regulating oil production, maintaining clear pores, and reducing inflammation.

Hyperpigmentation / 'The Mask of Pregnancy'

Many women experience hyperpigmentation, or the 'mask of pregnancy,' due to increased melanin production. Using sunscreen daily is crucial to protect your skin and prevent dark spots from becoming darker. Products containing vitamin C, Niacinamide and Bakuchiol can also help brighten the skin and provide antioxidant protection.

Increased Redness / Sensitivity

During pregnancy, increased skin sensitivity and redness can be managed with soothing ingredients. Niacinamide is excellent for reducing inflammation and strengthening the skin barrier, while Azelaic Acid offers dual benefits by calming redness and fighting acne.

drier skin

If your skin becomes drier, look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, providing deep and lasting hydration to the skin and face oils to replenish lost moisture and restore the glow.

oilier skin

For those experiencing oilier skin, balancing hydration is key. Lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers can provide the necessary hydration without clogging pores. Look for gel textures with ingredients like Niacinamide. Ingredients like Glycolic Ccid can gently exfoliate and help regulate oil production.

what ingredients to avoid

While many ingredients are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, some are best to avoid:

Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives) are known for their powerful anti-aging and acne-treating properties but are advised against during pregnancy.
High-strength Salicylic Acid treatments should be avoided. It is recommended to use 2% or less 1-2 times per day. Alternatively, it can be substituted with milder acne ingredients like Azelaic Acid.
Certain essential oils and chemical sunscreens (like oxybenzone/ Benzophenone-3) can be sensitising or have potential endocrine-disrupting effects and should be used with caution or avoided.

GET IN TOUCH

We hope that you've found this blog helpful - if you have any questions or would like to share your skincare journey with us, we'd love to hear from you. You can get in touch via the form below or by DM on IG.