Some women may experience dry skin during pregnancy. This can be devastating if you are already suffering from such issues as your changing body shape, weight gain and puffiness that are making your feel less than beautiful. The good news is dry, itching skin can be managed, thus getting you feeling radiant during your pregnancy.
Why Dry Skin Happens During Pregnancy
Hormone changes can cause skin to lose elasticity, hydration and naturally occurring oils, which result in very dry skin. To make matters worse, as your baby grows you stretch, which causes skin itching as well. Your stretching exacerbates this feeling of dryness. If you tend to itch your belly for relief ,your skin may get even more irritated, thereby worsening your condition.
What to Put on Your Skin
If hormonal changes and stretching are an issue for you, make sure to liberally use moisturizers throughout the day, particularity paying attention after you bathe as it will act as a sealant to lock in moisture. Arnica oil and coconut oil lotion are particularity beneficial in helping to ward off stretch marks as well. You might also run a humidifier in your home, but make certain that the air does not get too dry and thus further affect your skin.
What to Put in Your Body
Drinking enough water to support you, your baby, and your skin is of utmost importance. Your baby will take what it needs from you, and so you need to make sure you drink enough for both of you. Make sure that you are not substituting water with drinks that can further dehydrate you, such as caffeinated soda or coffee, which are diuretics.
What to Avoid
Extreme hot baths or showers can causes your skin to become dry, so keep the water temperature just a bit cooler. You will also want to avoid over-exfoliating and using soaps that are drying or with heavy fragrance, such as deodorant soaps. Steer clear of chemical skin treatments. Not only are they drying, but your skin absorbs those chemicals.
Protecting Your Skin
The sun can be drying at anytime for anyone. Your skin is already under stress from your hormones, stretching and loss of hydration. The sun will only exacerbate your dryness. It's a good idea to avoid sitting in direct sun for long periods of time, but if you need to, remember to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing and stay hydrated.
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