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Pregnancy and Your Skin

What many people fail to realize is while your belly is swelling, your skin is going through unusual changes as well. Often times, you will hear comments on the “glow” of an expectant mother’s skin. This glow is actually caused by increased blood flow and hormone-induced oil. These two factors combine to create a healthy looking “glow”. But, of course, most of the skin changes that take place during pregnancy aren’t as enjoyable as a vibrantly glowing complexion.

Almost all of these pregnancy-caused skin conditions lessen after delivery. There are, however, a few that may linger. Luckily, many products are being developed specifically for mothers-to-be, new mothers, and even their newborn babies.

Acne
Just like when you were a teen, hormones take charge during these nine months. And, just like when you were a teen, blemishes and pimples may begin to appear for an encore. Acne during pregnancy generally affects women who are prone to breakouts during their menstrual periods. Then again, you may be one of the few who experience a reduction in the appearance of acne. As always, acne can be controlled by a gentle cleanser. Juara Rice Facial Cleanser and Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser are ideal products for use on pregnant, sensitive skin.

Safe cleansing ingredients include glycolic acid and other alpha hydroxy acids (sometimes referred to as AHAs), and witch hazel. Dermatologists and obstetricians usually recommend that you steer clear of topical retinoids (like Retin-A and Differin), and salicylic acid. Although these ingredients have not been conclusively linked with birth defects, there are studies which show that it may be a possibility.

Stretch marks
Stretch marks are caused by small tears in the tissues that help your skin to stretch. Since your body is growing to a larger than normal size at a rapid rate, your skin has a difficult time maintaining its elasticity. Stretch marks caused by pregnancy generally appear on the breasts and belly, and sometimes on the buttocks, thighs and hips. Depending on your skin color, stretch marks can be pink, reddish-brown or dark brown. Mustela Stretch Mark Intensive Action or Stretch Mark Double Action and Belli Cosmetics Stretch Mark Minimizing Cream are effective products safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.

Skin darkening and chloasma
Skin that is already dark prior to pregnancy often becomes darker due to increased hormones. These dark patches may fade after delivery, but it is likely that the altered areas remain dark. Chloasma, also known as melasma or the “mask of pregnancy”, is a condition that includes the brownish darkening of the facial skin. Although it is most common in women with dark hair and pale skin, chloasma is extremely prevalent in all skin types and ethnicities. Chloasma generally reveals itself on the forehead and temples. Sometimes, dark marks may materialize around the eyes and over the nose. All of these darkened areas become darker when exposed to sunlight, therefore the best treatment is a strong, broad-spectrum sunscreen. Belli Cosmetics Anti-Chloasma Facial Sunscreen is specifically designed to fight the dark marks of chloasma. Colorescience Sunforgettable is extremely gentle, safe for the whole family, and available in easy-to-apply powder form.

It’s also important to remember that your skin becomes extremely sun-sensitive during pregnancy. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and protective clothing, and limit the time you spend outdoors between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This includes cloudy days, too!

Itchiness
As your skin stretches in order to adapt to your rapidly growing body, sensations of uncomfortable itchiness may occur. Almost all expectant mothers experience instances of itching, although the intensity may vary. Natural ways to combat itchy skin are to drink plenty of water and avoid dehydrating activities.

Another way to keep your skin comfortable is to moisturize. Keeping your skin hydrated is essential for itch-less skin. Look for products containing menthol, as it is believed to lessen the body’s itch signals. Plus, it works to calm nerves with its aromatherapy properties. Belli Elasticity Belly Oil not only keeps skin moist and comfortable, it also prevents stretch marks and envelopes the skin in an intoxicating fragrance.

Also, don’t forget to pamper yourself – carrying a human inside of you is hard work! Belli Cosmetics Peppermint Belli Soothers are flavored candies created to ease upset stomachs, frazzled nerves and cravings. Juara Invigorating Coffee Scrub is ideal for the caffeine-driven woman who’s given up coffee for the duration of her pregnancy. Belli Cosmetics Foot Relief Cream provides soothing moisture while increasing circulation in order to relieve swelling. Acquire someone to rub it in and enjoy the benefits of soothing peppermint and menthol.

Most importantly, always consult your doctor before using products that may absorb into the blood stream. Their job is to ensure that you and your baby are safe and healthy, so put them to work.

Article posted 7/02/2007.

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Stretch Mark Intensive Action by Mustela $39.00

Rice Facial Cleanser by Juara $25.00

Invigorating Coffee Scrub by Juara $37.00