After the wonderful news that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting the pitter patter of tiny royal feet, we thought we would give some tips on skincare during pregnancy. This is a time when hormones go wild and for some it means a healthy pregnancy ‘glow’, but for others it can mean a pregnancy low.
Here are some tips and tricks to keep your skin looking beautiful and radiant during pregnancy:
Acne and Spots
Pregnancy has a funny way of clearing up problem skin and muddling up clear skin. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy increase androgens in the body and can cause the sebaceous glands to go into overdrive, boosting the production of sebum which can block your pores and lead to inflammation and breakouts.
Make sure to cleanse, treat and moisturise your face in the morning and again at night to rid skin of dirt and bacteria. Look for sulphur-based topical products, like the Blemish Spot Treatment, as well as products containing AHAs or glycolic acid to encourage cell turnover, like the AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser.
If you find your skin is particularly oily, use a moisturiser to balance oil production and leave skin looking matte, like the Oil Control Mattifier SPF 15, and make sure your make-up won’t clog pores. Use the Skin Perfecting Primer – Blemish and Shine Control for a perfectly matte and shine-free finish.
Dryness/Itchiness
From a dry face to an itchy belly, you can thank hormonal shifts and stretching skin for these pregnancy skin concerns. Many women also find that they have an increased sensitivity to conditions that normally only make them feel slightly itchy, such as eczema and food allergies.
Wear loose cotton clothing, since perspiration can increase itching. Use mild products to avoid reactions to fragrance and harsh ingredients like our Redness Therapy Range which soothes and hydrates skin providing instant relief from irritation.
Melasma
Also known as “the mask of pregnancy,” melasma is typically characterised by discolouration on the forehead, upper cheeks, nose and/or upper lip. It is commonly believed to be caused by hormonal shifts during pregnancy.
Use an SPF religiously! Sun exposure can worsen the effects of melasma. Try Pomphenol Sunguard Dietary Supplements which are 100% pure pomegranate. Pomegranate extract has been shown to increase the SPF of topical sunscreens, plus it has great antioxidants to help fight free radical damage but as always, ask your doctor before taking any internal supplements.
Stretch Marks
More than half of all pregnant women get stretch marks during their pregnancy. Usually appearing during the later months of pregnancy, stretch marks are caused by small tears in the connective tissue that supports the skin.
Keep your belly well hydrated as it grows. Look for a lotion that contains shea butter and Vitamin E to help hydrate, and Vitamin C to enhance skin’s elasticity, like our Body Firming Cream. Also, keep your weight in check by gaining the healthy amount recommended by your doctor, and avoid sudden weight gains if possible.
Eat Your Water
As always, eating a varied and healthy diet is extremely important not only for your skin but for the developing foetus inside you. Fruit and green leafy vegetables are loaded with essential vitamins and nutrients which will boost your overall health and your baby’s.
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Remember: Always talk to your doctor before taking any internal supplements.
Murad UK 