One common side effect of pregnancy is hyperpigmentation of the skin on the abdomen. This condition is called cholasma (also known as "the mask of pregnancy" because it can also affect the skin on the face) and is related to a similar skin disorder, called melasma. This hyperpigmentation is caused by hormonal changes in your body. Although this hyperpigmentation often goes away on its own, some women find it to be cosmetically unappealing and want to have their skin returned to its original color.
Step 1
Apply sunscreen to your abdomen and keep it covered. Although abdominal hyperpigmentation will typically resolve itself after pregnancy, sun exposure can make it worse and cause the darkening of the skin to persist longer.
Step 2
Apply over-the-counter hydroquinone creams. These creams, which should be applied daily to the affected area, will help lighten the skin. Check your abdomen every day, however, to make sure that your skin is not becoming irritated or darker.
Step 3
Get treated by a dermatologist. Your dermatologist may recommend laser treatment to help lighten your skin. In addition, many dermatologists can apply a combination of glycolic acid, hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid and kojic acid in a chemical peel to help lighten the skin on your abdomen. These chemical peels should only be administered by a trained expert because misuse can damage your skin.
Things You'll Need
- Hydroquinone creams
- Sunscreen
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