When you’re pregnant your whole body is going through enormous changes due to hormones, weight gain, and the stress of preparing for a new addition to the family. It’s no wonder that the skin would undergo changes as well. From acne flare-ups to stretchmarks, there’s a lot to expect from your skin when you’re expecting. Here’s a quick list of some common skin reactions to pregnancy and tips to dealing with them.
Skin Care Tips for Pregnant Women 
- Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy, or PUPPP (try saying that ten times fast). These pale red bumps range in size and can be dry, itchy, and uncomfortable. They can show up individually or in clusters on the arms, legs, and abdomen. Treatment for PUPPP may include an antihistamine cream to treat symptoms, though wearing loose-fitting clothing, avoiding drying soaps, and washing with cool water are some of the most accessible ways to deal with the discomfort.
- Hyperpigmentation is caused by increased melanin, or pigment, in the skin. This is so common among pregnant woman that melasma, a form of hyperpigmentation that usually appears as dark patches on the face, is also known as “the mask of pregnancy.” Melasma can be treated with prescription creams or over-the-counter products. But it’s double important to consult your doctor before you diagnose and treat the skin condition yourself. Other ways to lessen the effects of melasma are to limit sun exposure and to use a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF.
- Stretchmarks are one the most difficult effects of pregnancy on the skin to treat. Stretchmarks result from rapid weight gain or loss and usually appear as red, pink, or purple stripes. These are difficult to remove, though moisturizing regularly throughout the pregnancy can help the skin’s elasticity and prevent some stretchmarks, and laser treatment is the most effective treatment after stretchmarks appear.
- Acne and psoriasis flare-ups during pregnancy are common, and should be treated according to recommendations from your doctor. Certain acne medications may be harmful to a developing fetus and should be discussed with a medical professional. Here’s some good news, these troublesome skin conditions often improve after giving birth.
While your skin and hair may improve during the early months of pregnancy, as your body develops, your skin will eventually react. Luckily, there are ways to diminish the outward appearance of these flare-ups and eventually fade away after giving birth.
Need an expert opinion as your skin changes during or after pregnancy? Contact Four Points Dermatology. The staff is professional and friendly, providing their patients with the best care, and they’re the leading East Austin dermatologist office.
