Pregnancy can come with a host of discomforts, from disrupted sleep to nausea. One common but often overlooked issue women face during pregnancy is dry skin. If you’re experiencing itchiness and discomfort caused by dry skin, fear not: have a look on the causes and best treatments for dry skin during pregnancy.
Why does your skin itch during pregnancy?
When your hormones shift and your skin stretches, it can become itchy. This is due to an increase in certain compounds in your bloodstream, such as hormones. As your baby bump grows, the skin on your belly will also be stretched, resulting in more itching.
What can you use for dry skin during pregnancy?
When treating dry skin while pregnant, the same strategies as when not pregnant apply. Dermatologists recommends moisturizing at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. This helps to maintain moisture and prevent further issues caused by dehydrated skin. The right moisturizer can also act as a barrier to protect the skin and soothe irritations.
Look for moisturizers containing these ingredients
Dermatologists suggest looking for hydrating facial serums or moisturizers containing these ingredients:
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid, which holds up to 1000 times its weight in water
- Ceramides, which help to rebuild broken skin barriers
- Niacinamide, which helps reduce redness and improve skin texture.
When to seek professional treatment for dry skin
If home remedies and self-care strategies haven’t been sufficient to get your dry skin under control, consider seeking professional treatment. In 2023, experts predict the use of laser treatments, chemical peels, and other forms of cosmetic treatments to treat dry skin during pregnancy.
However, note that some lasers are not safe to use during pregnancy, so it’s important to check with your doctor beforehand. There are also many topical creams that can be prescribed to treat dry skin during pregnancy.
Although it may seem like all hope is lost if you’re dealing with dry skin during pregnancy, the truth is that there are several ways to combat the problem. By following simple self-care routines – including moisturizing twice daily – and seeking out specific ingredients, you can effectively treat dry skin during pregnancy. In more difficult cases, seeking out professional treatments may be necessary. No matter what, make sure to consult with a doctor before taking any action.
