A guide to pregnancy and nursing skincare

 

Pregnancy is an exciting journey, with many new physiological occurrences. Everyone expects and is prepared for some morning sickness and stretch marks. However, many people are caught off guard as they do not expect to also see changes to their skin. Hormones play an important role in our skin’s behaviour. Acne, hyperpigmentation, sensitivity, and skin dehydration can occur. Estrogen and progesterone levels increase with pregnancy and can spike melanin production in the skin, causing the discolouration often referred to as pregnancy mask. Blemishes may appear on people who have never suffered from acne previously, particularly across the jawline, also referred to as the hormonal zone.

As the baby grows and the skin of the abdomen is pulled to accommodate a growing belly, stretch marks form and the skin elasticity is taxed because of the hormonal changes.

There are products that can assist with these skin modifications. However there are also some ingredients to avoid.
First, let’s look at the treatment for our complexion changes.

 

1. Acne

Progesterone can increase sebum production, which can lead to breakouts on the skin. Acne is treatable with ingredients that are safe to use during pregnancy. Oleanic acid and NDGA will mattify the skin and Boldo extract is antibacterial and all of these purifie and soothe the skin. You can find these ingredients in our Puractive+ Cream.

2. Hyperpigmentation

Melanin production may increase during pregnancy, causing a “pregnancy mask”, which affects the eye area, cheeks, and nose. A dark line on the abdomen may also appear, but these normally diminish once the baby arrives and the hormone levels return to normal. This pigmentation is best left untreated during pregnancy; using a concealer can lessen its appearance.

3. Skin sensitivity

Hormonal changes can cause the skin to become sensitive, with or without redness, and inflammation. Using products that contain soothing ingredients such as Aldavine™, aloe vera and ceramides can calm the redness and minimize the sensitivity. Prolonged dehydration can cause the development of skin sensitivity. Therefore, using products that contain hyaluronic acid and other moisturizing actives daily can also be beneficial.

4. Stretch marks

The expansion of the skin in a short period of time damages the skin structure, causing the stretch marks to appear. Initially, they are present as red lines on the skin, which then morph into white, slightly depressed lines in the skin, caused by the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Massaging the abdomen and the bust in the morning and evening, with products having a high content of lipids and moisturizing ingredients, may help lessen the development of stretch marks, as it will aid in the skin’s elasticity and flexibility.

Treatment for the body should begin the day you discover you are pregnant, for the best chance of preventing stretch marks.

 

Ingredients to avoid during pregnancy and nursing

Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy may increase skin sensitivity. Most G.M. COLLIN products are safe for pregnant and nursing women. However, we do not recommend using products containing AHA, salicylic acid, retinol, and vitamin C, as these may sensitize the skin.

Chemical sunscreens that penetrate the skin should be replaced with a mineral SPF, as minerals stay on the surface of the skin. G.M. COLLIN’s SPF 45 Tinted Sunscreen and SPF 25 Urban Protection Veil offer broad-spectrum sun protection that is 100% mineral.

Pregnancy and nursing can bring about significant changes to the skin. By prioritizing pregnancy-safe skincare ingredients and avoiding harmful substances, you can nurture your skin with confidence throughout this transformative journey.

Written by KAREN ASQUITH - DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AT G.M. COLLIN