Things Pregnant Women Should Do to Take Care of Their Skin

Things Pregnant Women Should Do to Take Care of Their Skin
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When you are pregnant, hormonal changes can cause different types of skin conditions. Pigmentation changes, acne and oily or dry skin are all common occurrences during pregnancy. To take care of your skin during pregnancy, you need to avoid certain products such as acne medications. Many skin conditions during pregnancy are alleviated after delivery. Talk with your doctor about the best skincare options for you.

Sun Protection

Sunblock is one of the most essential skincare products to use during pregnancy. It not only prevents sunburn but also decreases your chance of developing melasma, sometimes called the mask of pregnancy. Melasma causes darkened areas of skin to appear on your face. Your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, and sunblock helps prevent burns.

Acne Medications and Makeup

Read medication labels and steer clear of products that can be unsafe for pregnant women and that may promote birth defects. Avoid skincare products that contain retinoids or salicylic acid as an active ingredient. Prescription acne medications Accutane, Amnesteem and Claravis can not be taken by pregnant women or women trying to get pregnant. You can choose makeup labeled noncomedogenic to avoid clogging the pores and breakouts.

Daily Cleansing

Washing your face twice a day with mild cleansers that do not contain acne medications should be part of your pregnancy skincare routine. Pregnancy hormones have a tendency to cause your skin to become oily. Daily cleansing removes the excess oil. Because you are more prone to acne breakouts, washing your skin also helps clear up blemishes.

Moisturizing

Unscented moisturizers can be applied after cleansing to relieve dry skin associated with pregnancy. However, moisturizers and creams are not likely to prevent skin problems such as stretch marks. To avoid stretch marks, try to gain only the recommended amount of weight during the course of pregnancy, according to your doctor's guidelines. Pregnancy can also cause varicose veins. Additional causes of varicose veins include prolonged standing and a lack of vitamin C in the diet.

References

Article reviewed by DawnF Last updated on: Aug 18, 2011

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