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Skin Care During Pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones bring about huge changes to almost every part of a woman's body, from skin and hair right through to teeth and gums. Since skin is the outermost layer of the body, even a slight change from the normal is evident.

1. Some of the skin changes that take place during the nine months countdown to motherhood.

Cholasma
Noticed any brownish or yellowish patches of skin on your face? This skin condition presents as a darkening around the eyes, forehead, bridge of nose and cheeks. What you're seeing in the mirror is the so-called "mask of pregnancy" (chloasma). Chloasma is caused by the effects of the pregnancy hormones progesterone and estrogen on the melanin cells in the skin. If you're prone to chloasma, you
can minimize its effects by avoiding intense sunlight. The pigmentation will start to disappear after you give birth and your hormone levels begin to return to their pre-pregnancy levels.

 

Acne
Many women find that their faces break out more after they become pregnant. Try to keep your face as clean as possible using a mild cleanser. If you need to visit a dermatologist, make sure you inform her that you are pregnant. Mild oatmeal-based facial scrubs are your best bet for unplugging oily pores. You'll want to steer clear of abrasive scrubs or exfoliants because your skin is extra sensitive during pregnancy.

Increased pigmentation
Expect the areola (the flat area around your nipple) and the nipple of your breasts to darken during pregnancy and to remain a little darker even after you give birth. Your freckles and moles may also become darker and some new moles may appear while you're pregnant.

Stretch marks
According to the studies, more than 90 percent of women develop stretch marks during the sixth and seventh months of pregnancy. Stretch marks are caused by the stretching of the underlying layers of skin during pregnancy and typically show up as pink or purplish streaks on the abdomen and -- in some cases -- the breasts and the thighs. Fortunately, they tend to fade to silver over time, something that makes them a whole lot less noticeable.

Linea nigra
You may find that you have developed a faint brown line from your navel to your pubic bone. This is also due to hormonal changes and will "crumble off" as the top layers of skin cells are shed a few weeks after delivery

2. Ingredients in skin care products to be avoided during Pregnancy

Pregnancy is also a time when special care should be taken to keep the skin healthy and glowing. While most commonly used products are completely safe, there is handful of ingredients considered harmful to a growing baby.The more powerful and targeted products get, the more we need to be careful about what we have in our skin-care regimens during pregnancy and nursing.

Retinoids
These powerful substances, found in some anti aging moisturizers, are lauded for helping reduce wrinkles and improve skin tone. Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that speeds up cell division (quickening your skin's renewal) and prevent skin collagen from breaking down. There is no strong evidence to show that retinoids ingredients are harmful when used on the skin. It is advised by doctors to avoid during pregnancy and nursing.

What to check on the label:

  • Differin (adapelene)
  • Retin-A, Renova (tretinoin)
  • Retinoic acid
  • Retinol
  • Retinyl linoleate
  • Retinyl palmitate
  • Tazorac and avage (Tazarotene)

Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is another no-no for pregnant women.This mild acid is used to treat certain skin disorders, including acne, and you can find it in a number of skin products, such as cleansers and toners. BHA, or beta hydroxy acid, is a form of salicylic acid and is used in some topical exfoliants to reverse signs of aging.

Do not confuse yourself with Alpha hydroxy acids, sometimes listed as AHAs, glycolic acid, or lactic acid, they are safe.

What to check on the label:

  • Salicylic acid
  • Beta hydroxy acid
  • BHA

Don’t panic. If you realize you have used a product that contains one of the potentially harmful ingredients noted above. Simply stop using the product now and pick one with known-to-be-safe ingredients.

3. Pregnancy Skin Care Routine:

Pregnancy skin care for pregnant women is really essential; skin care and pregnancy go hand-in-hand. To keep their pregnant bodies in top condition, mums-to-be need to adjust their daily skincare and pampering routine to ensure that they feel and look great, right up to their due date and beyond. The first thing to do when you find you are pregnant is to check the products that you would normally use. You may find that some products are unsuitable for pregnant skin. If you are at all concerned then switch to products which state they are suitable for use during pregnancy. In order to maintain a pregnancy skin care routine, you'll need to focus on the basics of skin care. Follow these easy pregnancy skin care tips.

Cleansing
Soap removes natural oils from the skin, so try using a moisturising body wash instead. This will maintain the essential oils in pregnant skin and promote a healthy glow

Moisturizing and Sun Protection
The most important addition you should make to your skin-care routine during pregnancy (and beyond) is a moisturizer with at least SPF 15, and with broad spectrum protection (that works against both UVA and UVB rays).

Acne and Oil
If your skin is oily and/or acne prone, you'll probably experience your worst breakouts during the first trimester of pregnancy. The safest way to treat these breakouts is with a product that contains glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, topical erythromycin (prescription only), or witch hazel.Generally, most dermatologists don't recommend the use of topical retinoids (such as Retin-A or Differin) or salicylic acid — check product labels for ingredients

Quick and Easy Makeup
When it comes to wearing makeup during pregnancy, stick with the less-is-more philosophy. It's faster and easier. All you really need to put your best face forward are few multipurpose products.A foundation stick that doubles as concealer is great for covering under-eye circles and blemishes, and for evening out skin tone. Chubby pencils are foolproof for smudging on eyes, lips, and cheeks and they won't take up much room in your bag. If you're the kind of person who won't leave the house without lipstick, make sure it's moisturizing and contains sun protection. For a polished look, finish up with a coat of washable, waterproof mascara and you're ready for the day.

 

   
Learn about the changes taking place in mother's body and the growing baby.
  Week 5-8 Week 9-12
Week 13-16 Week 17-20
Week 21-24 Week 25-28
Week 29-32 Week 33-36
Understand how pregnancy can impact your lifestyle.
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How does alcohol affect your baby's development?
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Changes in skin during pregnancy
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How safe is it to color your hair during pregnancy?
Learning about children’s behaviour
- contributed by Early Childhood Australia



   

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