Pregnancy and skin care

From the moment you got pregnant, your body began to undergo transformations. Your figure filled out and your skin changed due to the extra weight and hormones. Stretch marks, pigment spots, varicose veins, acne… Although these changes are normal, they can cause discomfort and raise many questions. Thankfully, there are simple and effective ways to prevent and reduce the effects of pregnancy on your skin.  

What are the basics of maintaining healthy looking skin? 

The best way to keep your skin healthy, at any age, is to moisturize your face and body every day, eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid prolonged sun exposure as much as possible. 

How can I reduce the risk of stretch marks? 

Stretch marks are common and affect 80-90% of pregnant women. They appear mainly on the stomach, breasts, hips, thighs and buttocks. 

The reason for the appearance of stretch marks is due to the rapid stretching of the skin during pregnancy. The tension exerted on the skin can damage certain layers of the skin and cause the rupture of collagen and elastin fibers that serve as a support for the skin. This can lead to the appearance of red, pink, purple or brown lines depending on the color of the skin.  

Unfortunately, there is nothing that can be done to prevent stretch marks. Contrary to popular belief, body oils such as almond oil, cocoa butter, olive oil or vitamin E do not prevent the appearance of stretch marks. 

The movements and motions that occur when applying creams and moisturizing products may slightly decrease the development of stretch marks, but not the product itself. 

Important 
Some skincare products may be contraindicated during pregnancy due to their ingredients. For example, retinoids such as retinol should be avoided. If you have any doubts, questions or concerns, please consult your family pharmacist. They can assist you further. That being said, most body care products such as makeup and sun lotions can be used safely during pregnancy. 

How can I take care of my breasts? 

As your pregnancy progresses, your breasts will become heavier. A bra with good support and exercises to strengthen the pectoral muscles are highly recommended. It’s normal to notice an increase of one to two cup sizes. Strengthening your pectoral muscles with small firming exercises can also help with comfort. Try this: with your elbows raised, press your palms against each other for a few seconds; release, and then repeat. Repeat this exercise every day!

You will also need to take special care of your nipples, which tend to crack during pregnancy. Avoid washing them with soap and, if necessary, apply oil or moisturizer.  

Pigmentation Spots 

Between the 16th and 24th week of pregnancy, some women develop what is called chloasma or, if you prefer, a pregnancy mask. Generally located on the forehead, cheeks and upper lip, these dark spots are caused by a combination of sun exposure and hormones. They usually disappear after giving birth.  

Here are ways to prevent a pregnancy mask: 

• Limit your exposure to the sun as much as possible 
• Apply a good quality sunscreen every time you go outside
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat 

There are ways to help lighten these blemishes. If you’d like to speed up the process, you can try peels, exfoliants and creams/serums for dark spots. To eliminate the more stubborn spots, you can also use a skin lightening product. Before choosing any treatment, it is best to consult a dermatologist for a treatment that bests suits you.

Pregnancy acne 

Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to the appearance of breakouts in pregnant women. The sebaceous glands are much more active, and the skin tends to become oilier. To help, we recommend maintaining a good facial cleansing routine, using a product suitable for your skin, and favoring non-greasy products. Some acne-fighting products can be used during pregnancy. Please seek the professional advice of your family pharmacist for more information on the best products to use based on your situation. 

Varicose Veins 

Varicose veins are dilated veins that are visible on the surface of the skin and appear as bluish or purplish lines scaling the skin. 

During pregnancy, the appearance of varicose veins is common, especially on the legs, vulva, or rectal area. They can cause discomfort, pain, as well as a feeling of heaviness or pulsation in the affected area.  

You can limit the appearance of varicose veins by:  

• Engaging in daily physical activity 
• Elevating your feet and legs for 15-30 minutes, three or four times a day - using a footrest when sitting and avoiding crossing your legs
• Avoiding standing or sitting for too long  
• Doing exercises to promote blood circulation, such as flexing your feet and ankles (heel to toe) or rotating them 
• Supporting your body when lying down. Preferably, lie on your left side with a pillow under your belly or between your legs to reduce pressure on the inferior vena cava, your body’s largest vein.
• Opting for shoes with a heel lower than 3 cm 
• Avoiding very hot baths
• Drinking plenty of water and adding fiber to your diet to prevent hemorrhoids 

Pharmacy services

Have questions about changes in your skin during pregnancy? Speak with your dermo-cosmetic consultant or your family pharmacist. They will be more than happy to help!