How Pregnancy Changes Your Skin: What to Expect and How to Care for It

One of the most common compliments pregnant women hear is, “You’re glowing!” This natural radiance comes from:

• Increased blood circulation, which gives your skin a healthy flush

• Hormonal changes that boost oil production, making the skin appear dewier

Tip: Stick to a gentle cleanser and lightweight moisturizer to maintain that glow without clogging your pores.

Many pregnant women notice dark patches on their face, especially around the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. This is known as melasma and is caused by hormonal changes.

How to manage it:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure
• Opt for gentle, fragrance-free skincare products to reduce irritation

As your belly, breasts, and thighs expand, your skin stretches — sometimes leading to stretch marks. These often start as pink, purple, or brown streaks but usually fade after childbirth.

Prevention & care tips:

• Keep your skin moisturized with cocoa butter, shea butter, or vitamin E
• Stay hydrated to improve elasticity
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet with vitamins C and E for healthy skin

For some, pregnancy hormones increase oil production, causing breakouts, especially during the first and second trimesters.

Safe ways to control acne:

• Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers

• Avoid harsh scrubs and strong acne treatments like retinoids

• Always check with your doctor before using medicated products

Your skin can become more sensitive and itchy, especially around the belly and breasts. Some women may also experience pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP), which are small itchy rashes that usually appear in the third trimester.

Relief tips:

• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Moisturize regularly with fragrance-free creams
• Take lukewarm showers instead of hot ones to avoid further dryness

During pregnancy, increased blood volume and hormonal shifts can make veins more visible, especially on the legs. These often improve after delivery.

How to reduce discomfort:

• Avoid standing for long periods
• Elevate your legs when resting
• Consider wearing supportive maternity stockings if recommended

After giving birth, your hormones gradually return to normal, but your skin may take time to adjust. Some women experience hair shedding, acne flare-ups, or lingering pigmentation for a few months postpartum.

Patience is key:

• Stick to a gentle, consistent skincare routine
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet
• Consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist

Pregnancy changes your skin in many ways — some are temporary, and others may take longer to fade. The best approach is to listen to your body, choose safe skincare products, and protect your skin throughout your pregnancy journey. Embrace the changes and care for your skin with love and patience.

1. Is it safe to use retinol or salicylic acid during pregnancy?

Retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, isotretinoin) are not recommended during pregnancy due to possible risks for the baby. High-strength salicylic acid (such as peels or oral forms) should also be avoided, but low-dose topical products (like cleansers under 2%) may be safe in moderation. Always consult your doctor before using active ingredients.

2. Do pregnancy stretch marks go away completely?

Stretch marks are very common in pregnancy. They usually fade over time from red or purple to lighter, silvery lines, but they rarely disappear completely. Staying hydrated, moisturizing regularly, and professional treatments such as laser therapy or microneedling may help improve their appearance.

3. Can pregnancy cause skin allergies or rashes?

Yes. Hormonal changes can make your skin more sensitive. Some women develop temporary rashes, such as PUPPP (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy), which causes itching and red bumps on the belly or thighs. These conditions are usually harmless and resolve after delivery, but safe skincare and a doctor’s guidance can help manage symptoms.

4. How can I treat pregnancy acne without harming my baby?

Pregnancy acne is common due to hormonal shifts. Stick to gentle cleansers and avoid strong acne treatments like high-dose benzoyl peroxide or retinoids. Safer options may include azelaic acid, glycolic acid, or low-concentration salicylic acid under medical supervision. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

5. What skincare ingredients should I avoid during pregnancy?

Ingredients to avoid include:

• Retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, isotretinoin)
• Hydroquinone (skin lightening agent)
• High-strength salicylic acid (peels, high-dose leave-on products)
• Certain essential oils (like rosemary or tea tree in strong concentrations)
• Chemical hair removal creams or harsh bleaching agents

Instead, opt for pregnancy-safe skincare like mineral sunscreens, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin C.

6. When will my skin return to normal after pregnancy?

Many skin changes improve as hormones stabilize in the first few months postpartum. Conditions like acne and oiliness often settle quickly. However, pigmentation (melasma) or stretch marks may take longer—sometimes 6–12 months—to fade. With proper skincare and, if needed, dermatologist-approved treatments, most skin changes improve significantly over time.

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Skin Conditions During Pregnancy. 

2. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Pregnancy and Skin Changes. 

3. American Pregnancy Association. Skin Changes During Pregnancy.