Prepare for These Skin Changes During Pregnancy: Causes and Treatments

If you’re noticing skin changes during pregnancy, know that this is common. Hormonal shifts, circulatory changes, stretching of the skin and other factors can all contribute to these changes, most of which are normal. Fortunately, pregnancy skin changes are usually temporary and will improve after delivery.

In this article, we’ll take a look at common skin changes during pregnancy, what causes them and how to care for your skin while you’re pregnant. 

Though most skin changes during pregnancy are normal and fade after delivery, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us if you notice unusual skin developments or anything else that concerns you. We’ve provided expert care to thousands of women in the Raleigh, Chapel Hill and Triangle area for decades and we would love to support you in living the healthiest life possible. 

What Causes Skin Changes During Pregnancy?

Your body goes through significant hormonal, physical and circulatory shifts during pregnancy which affect your skin.

Causes of common skin changes during pregnancy include:

• Hormonal fluctuations, such as an increase in estrogen and progesterone, which can impact pigmentation, increase oil production and affect hair and nail growth
• Increased blood flow, which can lead to skin redness and warmth and the appearance of spider veins 
• Stretching skin due to rapid body changes, which can lead to stretch marks and itching 
• Changed immune function, which may trigger rashes 

What Are Some Common Skin Changes That Can Happen During Pregnancy?

There are several common skin conditions you may experience during pregnancy. As previously mentioned, these skin changes are usually temporary and will fade or improve after you give birth as your hormone levels begin to stabilize. 

Common skin changes during pregnancy can include:

• Stretch marks (striae gravidarum), caused by rapid skin stretching and collagen breakdown; usually appear on the belly, breasts, thighs, buttocks or anywhere the skin is stretching fast.
• Melasma or “Mask of Pregnancy,” caused by increased melanin production resulting in brown or gray patches on the face.
• Linea Nigra, in which hormonal changes increase pigmentation along the abdomen, creating a dark vertical line down the abdomen.
• Acne breakouts or oily skin, caused by elevated hormone levels which increase the production of an oily substance called sebum. 
• Itchy, irritated or dry skin, caused by dehydration, hormonal shifts and stretching of the skin.
• Vein changes, including spider veins, varicose veins and hemorrhoids, which are a type of varicose vein, caused by increased blood volume and pressure on veins. 
• Skin tags, small loose skin growths that often appear under the arms, on the neck or under the breasts.

Some skin conditions require prompt medical attention. You should speak to us if you notice skin changes such as:

• Itchy or unusual rashes
• Skin yellowing
• Painful or rapidly spreading lesions 
• Any other changes that cause discomfort or leave you feeling anxious

We invite you to ask us any questions you may have. Our expert physicians and midwives are here to support you and provide the reliable information you need. 

How to Care for Your Skin During Pregnancy

Skin can be more sensitive during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, so it’s best to follow a simple, gentle skincare routine.

To practice safe skincare during pregnancy:

• Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreens and other skincare products.
• Choose products with pregnancy-safe ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, zinc oxide and shea butter.
• Avoid harsh scrubs and exfoliants and products containing retinoids, hydroquinone and high-dose salicylic acid.
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher.
• Stay hydrated to prevent dry skin and help maintain skin elasticity.
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet.

We encourage you to talk to us before starting a new skincare routine, especially if you’re using prescription skincare treatments. Not all skincare medications are safe to use during pregnancy. 

What Is Pregnancy Acne?

Pregnancy acne is common and happens due to hormonal changes that increase oil production in the skin, leading to clogged pores. This can result in breakouts on the face, chest and back. You may experience pregnancy acne even if you’ve never had acne before.

Acne during pregnancy often clears up after you deliver, as pregnancy hormones begin to stabilize. 

Washing with a gentle, oil-free cleanser twice a day can help, but check with us before using over-the-counter treatments or other acne medications to confirm they’re safe to use. 

Trust Our Caring, Expert Physicians and Midwives at Chapel Hill OBGYN for Every Step of Your Pregnancy Journey

If you’re experiencing new-to-you skin conditions during pregnancy, rest assured that this is a normal and common occurrence that arises from hormonal and blood flow changes. Most skin changes during pregnancy are temporary and will fade or improve after delivery. 

We encourage you to schedule an appointment with us to discuss how to safely care for your skin during pregnancy, any unusual skin developments you may notice or anything else that concerns you. We’re here to support you and ensure that you have the healthiest pregnancy possible.