Ahhh pregnancy. Whilst some of us are lucky enough to sail through the first 2 trimesters with that gorgeous ‘mumma-to-be' glow, some of us look in the mirror and barely recognise the face staring back at us. The hormones take over and leave us baffled by not just our reflection but by what is actually happening to our skin during this “magical” time.
We are here to help navigate you through some of the common skin surprises, the best ways to treat these issues that you might encounter, along with some ingredients to avoid.
The Problem - Acne
With our hormones on a rollercoaster ride, namely an increase in progesterone, heightened anxiety levels, lack of sleep and an increase in oil production acne is very common during pregnancy. Many women face breakouts along the jawline, cheeks and chin but can also occur on the chest and the back.
The Solution
We always recommend that you should consult with a professional skin expert to determine what the best, consistent skincare regime is for your particular needs. However, a focus on cleansing your face morning and night to remove any make up, oil and debris is essential.
Be gentle on your skin and focus on hydrating cleansers and moisturisers and avoid any harsh exfoliating scrubs.
The Product
TDD Daily Cleanser - The perfect all-around cleanser, it’s gentle enough for everyday use. Made with hero ingredients lactic acid and aloe, it lightly exfoliates your skin then follows with soothing hydration and is suitable for all skin types.
The Problem - Melasma
Melasma can form in large patches of darker discolouration on the face- especially near the upper lip and chin region although it can occur anywhere on the face. The main factors that contribute to Melasma are changes to pigment-stimulating hormones and an increased sensitivity to sunlight.
These marks can often fade after pregnancy however but are often harder to treat until hormones have settled down after breastfeeding.
The Solution
Although the hormonal side effects that are are visible on our skin are hard to avoid, using a SPF daily during pregnancy will not only protect from the suns harmful rays it will also help with the sunlight sensitivity associated with Melasma. Niacinimide- also known as Vitamin B3- is a safe and effective way to treat hyperpigmentation by slowing down the rate in which pigment is released by the skin. The Daily use of Vitamin C can work wonders by blocking pigment production and reducing any redness that leads to future pigmentation, whilst a good fruit enzyme exfoliant can help dissolve the extrinsic layers of pigmentation.
The Product
Pigment Corrector - Highly-specialised formulation for targeting stubborn dark spots and reducing hyperpigmentation. Made with 10% Niacinamide, the only clinically-proven product to remove pigmentation with regenerative properties, it helps fade old scars, freckles, blemishes, and sun spots. Oil-free and ultra moisturising, this cream lightens, whitens and brightens! Use it to treat rosacea, Melasma and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Suitable for all skin types.
The Problem - Dry Skin
With our bodies focusing on sending all the hydration to the baby first many of us often get left with dry skin. This can cause itchiness and irritation.
The Solution
Overcome that irritating dry skin by adding a hydrating face mask to your skin routine a few nights a week - we recommend The Dream Mask- a probiotic rich and hydrating sleep mask that nourishes the skin. Taking daily Omegas will also help reduce redness and inflammation in the skin but also increase the internal hydration of your skin giving you back some skin plump and helping your skin retain it’s hydration by strengthening your skin’s moisture barrier.
The Product
Multivitamin Nourish - Perfect for aging or dry skin types, it’s packed with rich ingredients like Vitamins C and E for a deeply nourishing hydration while Stearic Acid repairs and maintains the skin barrier. Used by people who have ageing, dry, impaired barrier function skin.
Ingredients to avoid during pregnancy
- Retinol
- Salicylic Acid