One of the many changes during pregnancy involves the skin, as a sudden surge of hormones can cause breakouts. A major disadvantage of dealing with skin issues during pregnancy is that many skin care products are not safe to use, which is why it is important to check with a doctor before applying any of them to the skin. Thus, it is usually best to deal with maternity skin care in natural ways, such as hydrating the skin from within through a good diet. Moisturizing lotion is also often good for the skin while pregnant, as the face and body tend to feel dry. Of course, some women also experience an increase in oil, in which case exfoliating acids are usually considered safe to use.
The safest method of maternity skin care is using the diet to keep the skin properly hydrated. For example, fresh fruits and vegetables should be consumed a few times per day, as these are filling, and also often contain lots of water. Of course, drinking enough water is also important, as the hydration needs rise during pregnancy due to increased blood volume. Flavored water and fruit juice are both usually considered fine ways to get additional water, but they should be limited due to their sugar content. Additionally, it should be noted that beverages that contain caffeine do not typically count as hydrating drinks, since this ingredient can actually dehydrate the body, which is bad for the skin.
Another way to avoid skin irritation is by keeping it moisturized with lotion. While there are many lotions that claim to specialize in maternity skin care, it is usually okay to use regular lotion, too. For particularly sensitive skin, though, unscented lotion may be best. Additionally, when considering the ingredients of moisturizing products, it is good to look for sun protection, as the skin often becomes more vulnerable to the sun than usual during pregnancy. It is also helpful to apply lotion to the entire body rather than just the face, as keeping the all of the skin moisturized may prevent the irritation that dryness often causes, and may also help reduce the severity of stretch marks.
Some women looking for maternity skin care tips struggle with excess oil on their skin, in which case they may be looking for products that can remove it. It should be noted, though, that topical retinoids, salicylic acid, and oral tetracycline are often considered dangerous during pregnancy. Instead, pregnant women are usually encouraged to use exfoliating acids, such as glycolic and lactic acid. Gentle soap-free facial cleansers are often fine to use, as well. Pregnant women should keep in mind that it is always a good idea to ask their doctor before using any maternity skin care product.