From acne to stretchmarks to oily skin, there are many skin changes and discomforts that women experience when they are expecting a baby.
Pregnancy 'bloom'
The popular notion is that a woman appears to be 'blooming' during pregnancy. This can be caused by a flush in her cheeks from the fact that she will probably have a raised body temperature during pregnancy. It can also be caused because the body retains water during pregnancy and this may fill out her features more. Or it could also be caused if she has cut out smoking or alcohol, both of which can affect a person's complexion.
However, not everyone enjoys a healthy flush throughout their pregnancy.
Caring for your skin in pregnancy
As well as reading up about specific skin problems, you can do a few simple things to keep your skin feeling and looking better.
Water It is important to make sure you drink enough water as, quite the opposite to what you might think, drinking water will help reduce water retention and also help flush your body through. It will also help with tiredness. (Click on the linked article above for tips on how to make sure you're getting enough water, and also how to make sure you only drink a safe daily amount.)
Washing Try not to overwash your skin. When having a bath or shower, avoid using strong soaps – some of which can trigger thrush – and instead try using a hydrating lotion like aqueous cream or a glycerine-based natural soap.
Moisturising your skin with creams and lotions
Using creams or oils which are safe in pregnancy can help to keep skin more supple.
Some contain essential oils which are not advised during pregnancy, but companies like Elemis, Mama Mio and Inspirito use pregnancy-safe ingredients in their ranges.
Many women swear by creams and oils for various skin conditions, and the me-time they help build into your daily routine is a valuable rest period for you in pregnancy, too.
