Pregnancy is a unique and very beautiful stage in many women's lives. It is a time of many changes, both physical and emotional, and almost all of them occur due to hormonal causes. One of the greatest transformations occurs in the skin. During these months, it is common for new skin needs to arise: from dryness and sensitivity to stretch marks, spots, or varicose veins.
In order to maintain optimal health, it is essential that pregnant women are careful with the products they use, both food and what they apply to their skin. It is very important that they are all suitable for pregnancy, since, otherwise, many harmful ingredients can be absorbed and reach the bloodstream. That is why, today we are telling you how to take care of your skin during pregnancy in a natural, safe, and conscious way.
Why does the skin change during pregnancy?
During gestation, the body adapts to support the baby's development. This process involves a major hormonal revolution, especially due to the increase in estrogen and progesterone, which directly affects the skin's natural balance.
Other factors associated with pregnancy, such as increased blood volume, fluid retention, and tissue distension, also influence the appearance and behavior of the skin during these months.
Some of the most common skin changes during pregnancy are as follows:
- Stretch marks: Approximately 90% of pregnant women develop them at some point during gestation, especially from the second trimester onwards. They are usually located in areas where the skin stretches rapidly, such as the abdomen, thighs, and breasts.
- Hyperpigmentation: More than 90% of pregnant women show a visible increase in pigmentation in areas such as the thighs, the areola, the face, or the midline of the abdomen. This pigmentation can intensify with sun exposure.
- Dryness or itching: It is common to notice increased skin dryness, especially in areas where the skin stretches due to the growing belly. This can cause itching or discomfort and requires constant hydration with nourishing and gentle products.
- Changes in hair and nails: Hair may become fuller and shinier in some women, while in others it tends to weaken or fall out more easily, especially postpartum. It is also common for nails to become more fragile, thin, or brittle.
- Increased vascularization and the appearance of varicose veins: During pregnancy, the body increases blood supply, especially in areas like the abdomen and chest. This more active circulation can lead to small spider veins (also called angiomas), or even varicose veins, which affect nearly 50% of pregnant women.
It is important to remember that every pregnancy is unique and that not all women experience the same changes. You may not show any of these signs, several may appear at once, or different manifestations may arise. Therefore, the key is to know that these changes can occur and to observe yourself, listen to your body, and adapt your care to your own needs.
Tips for taking care of your skin during pregnancy
1. Hydrate deeply every day
Hydration is your best ally for relieving dryness and itching. Having hydrated skin is essential for it to be healthy during this stage. For all these reasons, using creams or oils rich in effective natural ingredients and applying them to the abdomen or thighs is essential if you want to keep your skin soft and elastic.
Apply products that are suitable for pregnant women, with a circular massage and on dry skin after showering, as this is the best time to enhance their absorption.
At Banbu, we recommend using our Golden Glow body oil during this stage, as it provides the necessary extra hydration, helps keep the skin elastic, and leaves a soft sensation without making the skin greasy.
2. Sun protection always, even on cloudy days
Using sun protection frequently is very important, regardless of your situation. During pregnancy, this step becomes even more important, as the skin is more prone to hyperpigmentation, that is, the appearance of dark spots on the skin.
Use a broad-spectrum facial sunscreen every day, even if it is not sunny. Prioritize sunscreens that are gentle on sensitive skin and 100% safe during gestation.
3. Exfoliate a couple of times a week
During the period of pregnancy, it is important to exfoliate the entire body frequently, once or twice a week, with gentle exfoliants. Doing this favors the removal of dead skin cells and helps with regeneration, which will make the skin look less dull and absorb moisture better.
4. Avoid scratching irritated skin
Often, pregnant women experience skin itching. However, it is not good to scratch in irritated areas, as this can worsen the itching. Applying a cream with natural soothing active ingredients will be enough to calm the feeling of irritation. If the itching is very intense or widespread, mention it to your midwife or gynecologist.
5. Diet and rest, invisible allies
Eating a diet rich in antioxidants, water, healthy fats, and protein supports skin health from the inside out. Sleeping well also improves cell regeneration processes. Everything counts toward keeping your skin healthy and balanced during this stage.
Stretch marks during pregnancy
Stretch marks appear when the skin stretches faster than it can adapt. During pregnancy, factors such as the growth of the belly and chest, weight gain, and hormonal changes—which affect the skin's collagen and elastin fibers—all play a role. Genetics also carry a lot of weight: if your mother or sisters had them, it is more likely that you will too.
It is worth being realistic: no product can guarantee that they will not appear, and the evidence regarding creams and oils for preventing them is limited. What you can do is keep your skin well-hydrated and elastic, which relieves tightness and itching and makes the skin more comfortable while it stretches.
- Apply your body moisturizer once or twice a day to the abdomen, chest, hips, and thighs with a gentle massage.
- Start early, without waiting for the itching to appear.
- Drink water and watch your diet; progressive weight gain, following your midwife's instructions, also helps your skin.
For the body, you can use our Golden Glow body oil, which is suitable for pregnant women, has a light texture, and leaves the skin soft and hydrated without a greasy feel. If you have any questions about any product, consult your midwife or your gynecologist.
Skin spots during pregnancy (melasma)
Melasma, also called chloasma or the "mask of pregnancy," consists of dark spots that usually appear on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip, or chin. They occur because pregnancy hormones stimulate melanin production, and the sun intensifies them. In many women, they fade little by little after giving birth, although they do not always disappear completely.
Your best tool is sun protection:
- Use broad-spectrum, high-factor facial sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days.
- Reapply it every two hours if you are going to be outdoors.
- Complement it with a cap or hat and sunglasses, and seek shade during the middle of the day.
Avoid treating spots on your own during pregnancy: many depigmenting agents, such as hydroquinone, and retinoids are not recommended at this stage. If the spots worry you, discuss it with your dermatologist.
Which cosmetic ingredients are not recommended for pregnancy?
During pregnancy, it is advisable to check labels and avoid certain active ingredients, such as retinoids (retinol, tretinoin...), hydroquinone, salicylic acid in high concentrations or in peels, formaldehyde and its releasers, phthalates, the toluene found in some nail polishes, and certain essential oils. We explain this in detail in our article on ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. If you have any questions, consult your midwife, your gynecologist, or your dermatologist.
How do you know which cosmetic products are optimal for pregnancy?
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is essential to pay special attention to the products we apply to our skin. Reading labels carefully and knowing the ingredients they contain is key to avoiding those that may pose a risk to you or the baby's development. If in doubt, the most recommended course of action is to consult with a healthcare or dermatology professional, especially if the product contains active ingredients you are not familiar with.
Whenever possible, choose brands committed to transparency and safety that formulate specifically for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. During this stage, it is ideal to opt for natural and organic cosmetics made with gentle, plant-based ingredients, which are less likely to cause reactions or unwanted effects. In addition, ensure that the products are dermatologically tested and have clinical backing to guarantee their safe use during these important months.
To make it easy for you, we have put together our selection of cosmetics suitable for pregnancy and breastfeeding: facial care, body care, hair care, and baby products.
Remember: every skin during pregnancy is unique
What works for one woman may not be ideal for another. Observe your skin, take care of it with affection, and if you have any questions, consult your midwife, your gynecologist, or your dermatologist. At Banbu, we have alternatives to make taking care of your skin during pregnancy as simple as possible, without putting your health or your baby's health at risk.
