Skin changes during pregnancy and motherhood

Some women seem to have that healthy skin “glow” during pregnancy. Personally, I was really surprised about how my skin changed during and after pregnancy. I had pigmentation, my skin became more sensitive and during my 3rd pregnancy I woke up one night feeling like my skin was crawling it was so itchy !  Here are some of the common skin conditions found during pregnancy and motherhood, along with some practical tips on managing those that can be troublesome.

Common Skin Changes during and after Pregnancy

1. Pigmentation

Dark spots or pigmentation on your skin during pregnancy is know as also known as the ‘mask of pregnancy’ or ‘chloasma’. This is caused by the anterior pituitary gland in the brain producing more melanocyte-stimulating hormone (or ‘MSH’), which is the same hormone that affects how tanned your skin can become.

You might find dark spots on your face, breasts and also your “linea nigra”the line down the middle of your belly during pregnancy might become very dark. Mine did ! Fortunately my pigmentation faded post pregnancy around the time my hormones settled down after breastfeeding.

If you need a little natural help, organic Rose Hip oil is a fantastic way to reduce the effects of pigmentation and stretch marks. Also make sure you avoid excessive sun exposure.

3. Sensitive Skin

Did you know.. all skin can be sensitive. With everything our skin has to tolerate – the weather, air conditioning, stress, pollution plus changing hormones during and after pregnancy it’s no surprise it sometimes gets a little irritated.

Mel Driver owner of Merindah Botanicals  advises that when we talk about sensitive skin, we aren’t talking about “a skin type” instead we are talking about all skin. It’s just how skin naturally is. And that’s not a bad thing. Our skin is a living organ and it’s designed to tell us when something isn’t right. Blemishes, dryness, tightness, breakouts, redness; these are all signs that your skin is sensitive.

During pregnancy these signals became very prominent on my skin if I used any toxic or paraben laded products. I guess it was my body’s way of trying to tell me it wasn’t a heathy choice for me or my growing baby. Read more about the importance of reducing your toxic load during and after pregnancy.

Now I am post pregnant I still try to choose toxic free products . Currently my favourite skin care products include the Merindah Uplifting Cleanser, that contains activated charcoal and their Luxurious Face Cream which locks in moisture without feeling too greasy.

I normally skip the use of a toner however Merindah’s toner is very gentle and my skin never feels tight or dry after using it. You can purchase all 3 of these items as a great value package.

3. Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are another pregnancy joy (not) ! These small  streaks in the skin that appear most often on the belly in the later stages of pregnancy when you are rapidly expanding to accommodate your growing baby. Some women also get stretch marks on their buttocks, thighs, hips, and breasts.

Research says, genetics play a role in if you will get stretch mark plus excess amniotic fluid or excessive weight gain can contribute.

Exercise during pregnancy can help prevent stretch marks by helping to control your weight and improving your muscle and connective tissue. Also make sure you stay hydrated and eat a nutrient rich diet.

Also treating your skin with a nutrient rich, antioxidant moisturiser that is high in essential fatty acids and vitamin c assist with stretch marks. Try this one full of Australian Natives, Cocoa Butter and Green Tea…so delicious you could almost eat it !

4. Dark circles & tired mama skin

It is fabulous as a mother when find a quick skin fix that works effectively in a short amount of time. The ultra hydrating Instant Glow Face Mask by Merindah Botanicals is fabulous. It will give you that ..”I have just slept a solid 10 hours sleep radiance”

CHECK OUR MY INSTAGRAM VIDEO HERE

Formulated with hyaluronic acid it boosts skin moisture levels. Plus dark circles, under-eye puffiness and wrinkles are reduces by the all natural ingredient Paracess – hailed as the best natural alternative to Botox.

This mask is so easy to use and contains no toxic ingredients so is safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Best of all Merindah Botanicals products are 100% Australian made and owned from beautiful Tasmania.

Exclusive Merindah Botanicals Offer

Know a Mama that needs some self care ? Why not purchase some beautiful products for her to back in her hospital bag or to welcome her home with a new baby. If you are searching for no nasties skin care range I highly recommend Merindah Botanicals.

Use my code BFAB15 for 15% off any Merindah Botanicals order

These beautiful products are 100% Australian made, suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive skins and are toxic free. Perfect for during and after pregnancy !

Merindah Botanicals skincare also offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee on all full-sized products. So if for some reason, your gorgeous skin does not agree with their products, you’ll receive a full refund. As Mel advised me the products returned to date are ZERO – now that speaks for itself.

P.S I only endorse products I use and truly believe in, this post contains affiliate links for Merindah Botanicals.