5 Skin Problems That Can Happen With Pregnancy and How to Treat Them
1. Melasma (“Mask of Pregnancy”)
What it is: Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation characterized by brown or grey-brown patches on the face. It often appears on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip, giving it the nickname “mask of pregnancy.” Elevated oestrogen and progesterone levels spur excess melanin production, especially when skin is exposed to sunlight. Up to half of pregnant women develop some degree of melasma.
How to treat: The key is sun protection – wear broad-spectrum sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat daily to prevent patches from darkening. Many cases of melasma fade on their own after delivery as hormones normalize. During pregnancy, stick to gentle brightening products like vitamin C or azelaic acid (with your doctor’s approval) to lighten spots, since stronger treatments (like retinoids or hydroquinone) are off-limits. After pregnancy or breastfeeding, a dermatologist can offer options such as prescription creams or chemical peels if melasma persists.
2. Non-Specific Dermatitis (Dry, Itchy Skin)
What it is: Some moms-to-be
develop patches of red, flaky or itchy skin – essentially eczema or dryness
that crops up due to pregnancy. You might find that products you used before
now irritate your skin, or that you’re suddenly more sensitive to heat and
allergens. Hormonal shifts can disrupt your skin’s moisture balance, leading to
dryness on the belly, breasts, thighs, or face. This catch-all “non-specific
dermatitis” simply means irritation or rashes that aren’t linked to a specific
disease.
3. Spider Angiomas (Spider Veins)
What it is: Spider angiomas are tiny red “spider vein” clusters that can appear on your face, neck, or arms during pregnancy. They look like a red dot with little web-like vessels radiating out. Increased oestrogen levels make these small blood vessels dilate and become more visible. They’re harmless and don’t cause pain. Many women notice them in the first or second trimester.
How to treat: In most cases, you don’t need to do anything – spider veins usually fade on their own after baby is born. Wearing sunscreen can prevent existing angiomas from getting more pronounced. If they bother you cosmetically and persist after pregnancy, a dermatologist can easily zap them away with a laser treatment. But while you’re pregnant, focus on gentle skin care and know that these little “spiders” are temporary souvenirs of your hormone surge!
4. Acne Breakouts
What it is: If you feel like you’re a teenager again with pimples popping up, you’re not alone. Pregnancy hormones (namely increased progesterone) stimulate oil glands in the skin, which can lead to clogged pores and acne flares. Some women who always had clear skin develop acne during pregnancy, often in the first and second trimesters. Those with pre-existing acne might see it worsen for a while. Common areas include the face, chest, and back.
How to treat: The tricky part is treating acne safely in pregnancy. Start with basic skincare: wash gently twice a day with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water. Use oil-free, non-comedogenic makeup and moisturizers. Avoid picking or squeezing blemishes to prevent scarring. For over-the-counter remedies, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, glycolic acid, or low-strength salicylic acid are generally considered safe to use sparingly during pregnancy. These can help keep pores clear. However, avoid retinoid creams (like Retin-A) and never use isotretinoin (Accutane) pills – these are not safe in pregnancy. If acne is severe or causing you distress, talk to your OB or dermatologist. There are prescription topical antibiotics or other treatments they can recommend that are pregnancy-safe. The silver lining: many women find their skin improves in the third trimester, so this may be temporary.
5. Dark, Puffy Eyes
What it is: Have you noticed raccoon-like dark circles or puffy bags under your eyes? Pregnancy fatigue is real, and it often shows on our faces. Hormone changes, fluid retention, and increased blood volume can all lead to puffiness and under-eye darkness. Lack of quality sleep (hello, midnight bathroom runs and third-trimester insomnia!) makes it worse, since tiredness can cause blood to pool under eyes and create shadows. The result: a persistently “tired” look even when you’re feeling okay.
How to treat: First, know that
you’re not alone – and a lot of this will resolve once you can sleep on your
stomach again (one day!). In the meantime, a few tricks can help. Propping your
head up on an extra pillow at night can reduce fluid pooling around your eyes,
so you’re less puffy in the morning. A cool compress or chilled cucumber slices
over closed eyes can also decrease swelling. Try to stay hydrated and moderate
your salt and caffeine intake, as excess salt can worsen water retention.
Gentle under-eye massage or using an eye cream with caffeine may temporarily
help tighten the skin (ensure any product is safe for pregnancy). And of
course, whenever possible, catch extra naps – rest is the best remedy for dark
circles. As your baby settles in and after birth, you should notice those
under-eye bags improving. Until then, a good concealer can be a lifesaver!
Final Thought
Pregnancy can bring unpredictable skin surprises, but most are benign and
will fade after childbirth. The key is maintaining a gentle skincare routine
and using targeted treatments that are safe for you and baby. When in doubt,
ask your doctor or a dermatologist (many will coordinate with your OB for
pregnancy-safe recommendations). Remember, you’re growing a little human – a
few skin quirks along the way are completely normal. Focus on that pregnancy
glow when you have it, and rest assured that for these common skin problems,
there’s relief in sight.
Sources:
- Parents – 5 Skin Problems During and After Pregnancy
- American Academy of Dermatology – Skin conditions during pregnancy
- Mayo Clinic – Skin changes during pregnancy
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