If you’re a mom-to-be, chances are your skincare routine involves an arsenal of creams and lotions to ensure baby’s arrival is as smooth as possible.
And hey, who can blame you?
After all, you’ve got the most important job in the world: keeping that growing babe healthy and happy!
But even though there’s no doubt being pregnant is chock-full of skin miracles—fresh glowy skin, silky hair and fewer breakouts, to name just a few—the truth is that combating common pregnancy skin issues isn’t always cut and dry.
So how exactly do you zap those pesky hormones from wreaking havoc on your skin?
You start by swapping out your regular moisturizers and acne treatments for some pregnancy-safe alternatives .
Here, we’ve rounded up the best products that won’t irritate your skin and will help you get glowing in nine months !
To treat itchy skin: Try Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion. According to Dr. Neal Schultz, founder of New York Dermatology Group and author of The Beauty Bible , it’s fairly common for pregnant women to experience an increase in dry, flaky skin because of the rise in hormones all over your body—particularly progesterone (this is why you may also be experiencing some extra hair growth). “During pregnancy especially, a woman’s moisture barrier can dissipate,” explains Dr. Schultz. But thankfully there are plenty of safe options out there for moisturizing dryness that won’t cause irritation or breakouts.
Psst! Did you know: applying lotion to your belly not only helps prevent stretch marks , but can also help give a baby girl a smoother complexion as she grows. That’s right, rubbing the area with coconut oil , which is rich in skin-conditioning fatty acids like lauric acid, may just be your little one’s ticket to a fab future.
Moisturize. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. This one tip can go a long way in helping your skin stay as healthy and supple as possible .”Especially with the belly area, but also on legs and arms,” advises Dr. Schultz . “Lotions specifically formulated for sensitive areas are recommended.” (Bonus: They’re often made without fragrance or coloring, so they should be less likely to cause irritation.)
Avoid hot water during showers…unless you want to dry yourself out even more . As tempting as that piping hot shower may be (especially if you’ve been cold all day), it’s best to keep the heat down low. Hot water causes your pores to open up , which not only speeds up the natural aging process of your skin but also increases the likelihood of irritation.
Use a quality body wash and apply it in thin, even layers .
Using a wash that’s designed specifically for sensitive areas (check labels to make sure it’s hypo-allergenic) will help prevent any unnecessary irritation and redness caused by ingredients like fragrances. Wash yourself gently with lukewarm water (but not hot), then pat dry thoroughly — you don’t want to transfer any potentially irritating residue onto your panties or underwear .”That includes synthetics [like] nylon and polyester,” says Dr. Schultz . “These fabrics can rub against the labia majora region, which can potentially irritate those tissues.”
You need time to relax and take care of yourself visit a local spa
Take time to go to an spa and get a pregnancy massage and facial. Yes you can always ask your partner to go with you and use the massage as a special time for both of you. Your body too is stressed especially when there is a lot happening in it, so take advantage of it.
Visit Silueta Med Spa in Houston and treat yourself to some relaxing time. (281) 497-0888
