During pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes. The belly expands, you gain weight, and as the baby grows, the blood volume increases. You may experience morning sickness, cramping and aches and pains. Many pregnant women also experience skin transformation, which is called pigmentation. Hormones play a role in these changes, and you will learn about the common skin conditions seen during pregnancy. Hormones are messengers that are responsible for many physiological processes. Progesterone and estrogen are hormones that are responsible for these changes in women. Fluctuations in hormones contribute to unpredictable skin changes.
Hyperpigmentation is dark brown or grey patches or spots on the skin. It is caused by an increase in melanin (the pigment for skin colour) during pregnancy. Estrogen and exposure to the sun activate this pigment, causing dark spots on exposed parts of the body. Pregnancy hyperpigmentation typically gets resolved after childbirth, but for some women, it may persist for many years. Here are some common types of hyperpigmentation.
● Melasma: Melasma is an example of hyperpigmentation. It is also called the mask of pregnancy. The characteristic features of melasma are brown patches on the cheeks, face, forehead and nose. It may start at any time but typically begins in the second trimester. Many factors play a part in why melasma happens. Your skin type and colour make this condition less or more noticeable. The time of the year of pregnancy and how much time you spend in the sun may also affect when it is seen. The good news is that it is not a lifelong condition and fades away in months or a few years without treatment. Consult a dermatologist to treat hyperpigmentation during pregnancy.
● Chloasma: Also called the butterfly mask. It is another type of hyperpigmentation caused by increased melanin production. Chloasma is similar to melasma, with the difference being that the dark spots in chloasma appear only on the face. These patches look like butterfly wings covering the cheeks and nose and are called Butterfly masks. The main reason for this hyperpigmentation is estrogen and increased exposure to the sun.
● The Midline Mark: Linea Nigra, or the midline mark, is another pigmentation change seen during pregnancy. It is a dark line that runs along the abdomen. This line is caused due to increased melanin production and hormonal changes. While the exact cause for linea nigra in pregnancy is not fully understood, estrogen shifts are believed to play a major role in the formation of the midline mark.
● PUPPP (Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy): It is a condition where red bumps appear, causing itching, stinging or burning sensation. These bumps can be small or large, and lesions occur on the breasts, arms, legs, abdomen or buttocks. Typically, this condition gets resolved after delivery. To relieve itching, use warm water when washing, wear lightweight or loose clothing and avoid soap on red bumps.
Pregnant women often have stretch marks across the belly, breasts, thighs and buttocks. These have a reddish-purple appearance initially and become silver or white with time. Although they fade, stretch marks do not completely resolve with postpartum treatment. Moisturising and hydrating the skin is a good control measure during pregnancy.
This is another common skin problem during pregnancy. These lesions occur under the breasts, neck, back, chest and groin. Skin tags are not dangerous. If they are in a place that is prone to irritation due to repetitive motion or clothing, a doctor can remove them.
Acne may worsen during pregnancy. Hygiene practices like frequently washing the face with warm water, using oil-free cosmetics, avoiding touching the pimples, and keeping hair from falling on the face are useful ways to control acne.
Spider veins are small, red veins that affect the neck, arms and face. Hormonal fluctuations and high blood volume cause these skin changes. Varicose veins can occur on the vagina, vulva, rectum and legs and can be painful. These happen due to uterine pressure and increased weight and resolve after delivery. To reduce the side effects of varicose veins, limit long periods of standing and sitting, elevate legs when possible, exercise and avoid constipation.
Speak to your doctor about ways to treat skin changes during pregnancy. The best treatment may be prevention and lifestyle changes.
The Sun triggers hyperpigmentation. It is a good idea to seek shade or stay away from the sun. This means you should limit sunbathing and going to tanning beds. Instead, you can relax under an umbrella or a tree. If exercising, avoid peak sun hours and head out early or later when the sun is down.
Staying out of the sun does not mean staying indoors. Use a pregnancy-safe sunscreen lotion of SPF 30+ and physical sun blockers containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, as they offer more protection and irritate the skin less.
Serums, face washes, and lotions that cause skin irritation worsen hyperpigmentation. Use gentle products by looking for labels that are dermatologist-approved, sensitive and fragrance-free. The same applies to makeup you use to conceal skin changes.
Another way to limit exposure to the sun is to wear sun-protective clothing. Even when it is hot outside, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that covers your arms and legs to protect your skin. Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect your head, face and eyes.
Since many of the above skin conditions are due to hormonal imbalances, consuming plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and staying hydrated helps improve matters. Consult your doctor about potential vitamin deficiencies, as some studies show hyperpigmentation, like melasma during pregnancy, is linked to vitamin B12 and iron deficiency.
It can be quite challenging to deal with skin changes during pregnancy. Fortunately, most of the above-mentioned skin changes fade away a few months after giving birth. Be patient and kind to yourself, and make lifestyle changes to prevent the condition from progressing. When in doubt, consult your doctor about the benefits, risks of treatment and ways of prevention.
Melasma is a common skin condition that occurs during pregnancy. It is characterised by brown or grey patches on the face. It is triggered by an increase in estrogen and progesterone levels during pregnancy.
Protect yourself from the sun; wear sunscreen when heading out; wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the skin; and use gentle skin products to prevent hyperpigmentation.
Yes. Hyperpigmentation caused during pregnancy goes away after childbirth within a year.
It is a dim line that arises on the abdomen during pregnancy. It runs vertically from the belly button to the public area. It is seen due to an increase in melanin in the skin.
