As a new mum have you found that you need a new skin care routine to deal with all the changes that happened during pregnancy?

You might have been expecting a “pregnancy glow”. But instead find that you are facing break outs and pigmentation.

Industry expert, Dermatica, has written a brilliant blog on how to treat specific skin conditions that you might be facing as a new mum. With all of the nitty gritty ingredients to look out for. Some of these solutions are prescription based. We always recommend consulting your doctor to ensure that you are safe to use them.

Common skin changes in pregnancy

Numerous skin changes can occur during pregnancy. Either as an intensification of existing skin conditions or as a result of the pregnancy.

The “pregnancy glow” is a commonly mentioned myth of pregnancy. It’s mainly due to the hormonal changes during the different trimesters, which affect the appearance and behaviour of the skin.

In almost 90% of women, the skin changes during pregnancy due to increased hormone levels. This can lead to skin problems such as acne, hyperpigmentation and melasma.

In most cases, the skin’s appearance normalises with hormonal balance after pregnancy, but skin problems can also persist during breastfeeding. 

Therefore, addressing these skin concerns with tailor-made formulas and dermatology-led skin care is particularly helpful. That’s why, in addition to standard individual treatment plans, Dermatica offers formulas that can be safely used during early motherhood. It contains evidence-backed ingredients that make a real difference to the skin and can be adapted to the individual skin’s needs. 

Common occurring skin conditions: Acne and Melasma 

Did you know that your skin tone can change during pregnancy? The same fluctuating levels of oestrogen and progesterone provide you with a glowing appearance and can also cause new skin pigmentation, which is why many people experience Hyperpigmentation for the first time during pregnancy, as the skin’s pigment-producing cells are more active. 

Melasma, also known as “pregnancy mask”, can be triggered by a combination of hormonal changes. Along with UV exposure and can lead to darker, symmetrical patches on the forehead, cheeks and upper lip. It is more common in darker skin types but can occur in anyone – especially in the third trimester when hormone levels are at their highest. 

Outbreaks of Acne during early motherhood are another common skin concern during pregnancy. Mostly caused by hormonal fluctuations associated with the baby’s growth. Breakouts can occur at any stage of pregnancy – they are often mild, but can be more severe in the third trimester. 

What skincare products can be used safely during early motherhood? 

Many powerful active ingredients show in clinical trials to be effective in fading these skin conditions.

This includes tretinoin as a prescription retinoid that stimulates cell turnover in the skin. This helps to fade or even out pigmentation spots. While azelaic acid is very effective in reducing hyperpigmentation and acne, hydroquinone is effective in reducing melanin production in the skin. However, many of these actives can be harmful to unborn babies or while breastfeeding. 

At Dermatica we are unable to prescribe antibiotics, steroids and retinoids such as tretinoin and hydroquinone if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. While not every ingredient is suitable for use, there are plenty that are effective in alleviating those skin concerns. Dr Catriona Maybury, consultant dermatologist and medical director at Dermatica and St George’s Hospital in London, explains which ingredients are safe during early motherhood and help with skincare problems:

“Azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide and niacinamide are the main ingredients we recommend to our patients to include in their skincare routine during early motherhood. We always recommend that a doctor monitors skin care in some way during this important time if possible.”

Azelaic Acid

This is a multifunctional hero ingredient for many skin concerns, including melasma. It has antioxidant properties. This helps to brighten your complexion, as well as reducing the appearance of blemishes, dark spots and redness. Dermatica’s 20% Azelaic Acid Cream contains the highest concentration of Azelaic Acid available in a ready-made formula.  Also used in Dermatica’s prescribed personalised formulas

Niacinamide

Niacinamide is an active form of vitamin B3. Dermatica uses Niacinamide in personalised formulas to complement the work of melasma-targeting active ingredients.

It is also clinically proven to have pigmentation-reducing properties of its own. It reduces the transfer of pigment cells in the skin —increasing ceramide production, which keeps your skin hydrated.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Dermatica uses Benzoyl Peroxide in personalised formulas to destroy the acne-causing bacteria that create blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Benzoyl Peroxide works in three ways, killing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and unplugging blocked pores.

If you are new to Dermatica, you will tell us if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive during your first consultation. Our doctors will then prescribe an individual formula with ingredients that you can rely on. At any stage the expert team will be able to adjust your treatment plan to suit your skin goals over time. 

Get a month of customised skin care for FREE

Want to start treating melasma, acne or another skin concern? Start a free online consultation today and get your first month of a customised formula for free; only pay £2.90 for shipping. 

Start an online consultation now!

Disclaimer: Dermatica have paid a fee towards this post. This fee will go towards helping more parents find classes and support near them. 

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