11 Changes You Can Notice in Your Skin During Pregnancy
Although some changes in a woman’s skin during pregnancy are considered normal, every change should not be considered natural. For example, excessive itching or misshapen moles that increase too much…
Facial color changes
During pregnancy, color changes can be seen on the forehead, cheeks, nose, upper lip and chin. We can say that these spots, which are observed in many pregnant women, disappear after delivery. In order to prevent these spots, a sunscreen cream with at least 30 factor should be used during pregnancy and puerperium, before going out in the sun. It should not be forgotten that the sun’s UV rays affect the skin even in cloudy weather.
Increase in the number of moles
An increase in the number of moles or darkening of existing moles are among the skin changes experienced during pregnancy. However, in case of abnormal findings such as excessive darkening of the mole, irregular borders, increase in size, bleeding, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist. Similarly, there is an increase in the number and size of lesions called moles, which are often observed on the neck, armpits and groin.
Acne proliferation in the first weeks
Especially from the first weeks of pregnancy, acne and black spots on the face may increase. In this situation, which occurs due to the increase in the functioning of the sebaceous glands in the skin, it is necessary to pay attention to skin cleansing and to use appropriate moisturizing products. Despite all these precautions, in case of a serious increase in acne formation, it is recommended to use tropical drugs under the control of a dermatologist.
A line on abdomen
After the 20th week of pregnancy, a line-shaped spotting called the linea nigra (black line) occurs in the midline of the abdomen. The formation of this line, which starts just below the navel and extends to the groin area, is extremely normal and disappears spontaneously after birth.
Red spots
Red spots can be seen on the face, neck and sometimes on the abdomen. These spots occur in the form of a vein in the center and capillaries that spread radially from this vein to the periphery. It occurs due to the increased estrogen hormone during pregnancy. It disappears shortly after birth. So it doesn’t require treatment.
Nipple and armpit darkening
Darkening is observed in the nipples, armpits and genital areas of the majority of expectant mothers. This situation, which is thought to be related to the increased estrogen level, is more evident especially in expectant mothers with dark skin… There is no need for any treatment in these completely physiological darkening. They disappear over time in the post-pregnancy period.
Cracks in the abdomen, hips and breasts
Cracks in the abdomen, hips and breasts can be seen in a significant portion of expectant mothers. These cracks, which occur due to excessive stretching of the skin and therefore tearing of collagen fibers, can often be accompanied by an uncomfortable itching.
The color of these cracks, which are red in pregnancy, gradually clears after birth. In some mothers-to-be, even though a lot of weight is gained or protective measures are not taken, cracks do not occur. In some mothers-to-be, cracks can be seen despite all protective measures. For this reason, pregnancy stretch marks are thought to be hereditary.
Although it is not possible to completely eliminate the cracks, it is possible to reduce their appearance a little with some precautions. Crack creams, which should be used with the recommendation of dermatologists, help the skin to stretch by moisturizing it. In addition, adequate fluid intake during the day is also very important. When the amount of water entering the body is insufficient, the elasticity of the skin decreases and cracks can occur more easily.
If cracks cannot be prevented despite all precautions, micro needling techniques or laser applications can be applied to reduce the appearance of cracks in the postpartum period.
Redness on the palms
Redness on the palms is also among the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy. Rarely, redness and itching may occur on the soles of the feet. This clinical picture, called palmoplantar erythema, is thought to occur due to increased estrogen levels. Moisturizing creams may be helpful in cases where itching is severe.
Differences in hair loss
Hair loss decreases during pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes. On the other hand, hair loss can be experienced rapidly during the puerperium period after birth. This condition, called telogen effluvium, does not require any special treatment and usually resolves spontaneously after the 6th month following the birth.
Itching
Itching, especially in the abdomen and cracked skin areas, can be unbearable in some pregnant women. In case of widespread itching, a possible liver and biliary tract pathology should be investigated. Among the measures to be taken against itching is not to wear tight clothes or clothes made of wool and synthetic fabrics. It is important to choose comfortable, wide and cotton clothes. In addition, being in a cool environment and taking a warm shower relaxes the skin. After the shower, it is beneficial to apply moisturizing creams suitable for skin type and pregnancy to the whole body.
Skin reaction to chemicals
It is not inconvenient to wear makeup during pregnancy, but it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that the materials used do not contain chemical content and artificial coloring. There is no harm in using mineral makeup products, which are obtained by using colored minerals naturally found in nature, during pregnancy.