Dark patches across your forehead, nose and cheeks?
Its called melasma and its really common.
That can happen too.
What causes postpartum skin changes?
Your skin your bodys largest organ stretched and morphed to accommodate your newborn (or multiples).
Is it any wonder that your skin is acting up?
Top postpartum skin issues
Dont worry too much about your skins texture or appearance after childbirth.
In many cases, your skin issues will resolve with the passage of time and some TLC!
During pregnancy, your sebaceous glands kick into overdrive.
These glands produce the oily wax, called sebum, that keeps your skin moist.
Excess sebum can clog pores, leading toacne breakouts.
Resist the urge to pick or squeeze.That could cause scarring.
Consult your doctor.Ask about which topical treatments to try.
Postpartum dry skin
Hormonal changes in pregnancy can leave your body parched, especially your face.
To treatdry, flaky skinthat persists after youve delivered, maintain a moisturizing routine.
Gently cleanse.In other words, no harsh soaps.
Wash with a non-soap cleanser once a day and plain water the rest of the time.
Moisturize.Do it after your shower and before bed.
Avoid long, hot soaks or showers.You dont want to strip your skin of its natural oils.
Use a humidifier(to add moisture to your environment).
Protect your skin from the sun.Apply a 30-or-greater SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen each day.
Take note: There can be other reasons your skin is bone-dry.
At first, thyroid hormone levels in the blood spike.
You may have anxiety, insomnia, fast heart rate, fatigue, weight loss or irritability.
Your doctor can order a blood test to check your thyroid function.
Postpartum oily skin
A womans beaming complexion during pregnancy tells the world shes expecting.
That rosy glow is really due to increased hormones, which stimulate oil-producing glands.
Other steps you could take foroily skininclude:
Choose oil-free cosmetics and moisturizers.These wont clog up your pores.
Clean your makeup brushes.They can harbor bacteria that can worsen your breakout.
Consult a dermatologist.If the problem persists, ask about possible treatments.
Postpartum loose skin
If your skins not snapping back after giving birth, dont sweat it.
Give it at least six months before you pursue more aggressive measures.
It is the most common pregnancy-related skin condition.
PUPPP often develops late in pregnancy, during the third trimester, or early in the postpartum period.
Its much more common in women having their first child or multiples.
The theory is that abdominal skin-stretching damages the underlying connective tissue.
That, in turn, sets off an inflammatory process.
And next thing you know, an itchy rash erupts across your stomach.
It can also spread to your thighs, butt and arms.
Your doctor may suggest taking antihistamines or applying a topical steroid to calm your urge to scratch.
When do pregnancy skin changes go away after giving birth?
If your skin is still a little wonky, be patient.
Pregnancy-related skin changes are common, and they often resolve on their own.
A rise in hormone levels plus exposure to the suns UVA and UVB rays cause hyperpigmentation.
Its more common in women of color.
Fortunately, these patches of discoloration usually fade over time, although sun exposure can make it worse.
Again, this jot down of pigmentation is due to hormonal changes.
The tell-tale line usually fades within months.
Stretch marks.Moms-to-be know all about the red, brown or purple lines that streak their bellies during pregnancy.
Butts, thighs, hips and breasts can getstretch markstoo.
Stretch marks probably wont disappear entirely, but they can fade over time, becoming flesh-toned.
What skin care products should you avoid if breastfeeding?
Many medications aresafe to use while nursing, and that includes most topical products.
Topical tretinoin, a retinoid treatment for acne, hasnt been studied in moms who nurse.
Little of it is thought to reach breast milk.
Likewise for other many other acne treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
Just be sure the treatment dries on your skin before babys skin comes into contact with it.
Theres little research on the use of topical corticosteroids by breastfeeding moms.
Its always best to check with your doctor before using any medication while breastfeeding.
Another option: Switch to a moisturizer or foundation that offers the same level of sun protection.
Keep it clean.A gentle, twice-daily cleansing may help prevent blemishes.
So hang in there!
These postpartum skin changes won’t last forever.
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