Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful phases of a woman’s life. However, mood swings, morning sickness and bizarre food cravings can often play spoiler. While each pregnancy is different, one thing common amongst most women is the significant changes in the skin. Read on to find out the effects of pregnancy on the skin and how they can be tackled.
 

Breakouts

Breakouts

It’s fairly common to get breakouts on the face, especially in the first and second trimesters. Since your hormones are in a disarray, you can experience a spike in the hormones known as androgens. These cause the glands in your skin to significantly increase sebum production, which can clog the pores and eventually lead to inflammation and acne.

Solution: Ensure that you wash your face at least twice a day. Use non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products. You can also use a mask made of multani mitti, cucumber juice and lemon which will balance that excessive sebum production and calm down the skin.
 

 

Stretch marks

Stretch marks

The miraculous process of giving birth is not without its slew of changes. As your belly grows, your skin stretches resulting in stretch marks. These occur as your body is growing at a rapid pace. About 90% of pregnant women experience stretch marks.

Solution: While you can’t prevent stretch marks completely, can you at least reduce their appearance. Olive oil is a great source of Vitamin E which helps improve the elasticity of the skin. It also keeps the skin moisturised, which prevents any kind of itching or irritation.

 

Pigmentation

Pigmentation

Are you suddenly seeing dark spots on your face? This condition is called melisma and is a common occurrence during pregnancy. Melasma is triggered by hormonal changes, which is a part of pregnancy. The production of melanin is stimulated, which leads to dark spots on your skin. You’ll see more of these dark spots on the areas of your skin that are exposed to the sun.

Solution: Wear sunscreen whenever you are about to step out of the house. Ideally, use a sunscreen with SPF 30. As far as home remedies are concerned, you can try rubbing lemon juice on the affected areas. Lemon acts as a natural bleach and will considerably reduce the pigmentation.