Yearning for that healthy pregnant glow? Rejoice at life’s little miracle with pro tips on looking beautiful before, during and after pregnancy • by lena grady
1. Time Change
“Pregnancy activates a number of changes: hormonal, metabolic and vascular blood flow changes occur to support this growing bundle of joy,” says Melanie DesChâtelets, a naturopathic doctor in Vancouver, B.C. Unfortunately, these changes can also affect your skin. Melasma (also known as the mask of pregnancy) is caused by an increase in the hormone responsible for pigmentation in the skin and affects the cheeks, nose, forehead and upper lip. In most cases it resolves postpartum but your best bet is to apply sunscreen and stay out of the sun.
2. You’re So Vein
Spider veins, varicose veins and dilated blood vessels are common due to the rising estrogen levels and the increase in blood volume while pregnant, says DesChâtelets. Rubbing your legs with a soothing aloe vera lotion will help improve circulation and blood flow, or try compression stockings or elevating your legs for temporary relief.
3. It’s a Stretch
Two factors that play a huge role in stretch marks are baby’s size at birth and weight gain during pregnancy. Eating a balanced diet and maintaining healthy weight gain are your best bets for prevention. Studies show that massages can also be helpful — try it with cocoa butter or olive oil and start as soon as possible.
4. Lumps and Bumps
An itchy abdomen and red bumps on your abdomen, thighs and buttocks are common in the second half of pregnancy. To ease discomfort, take a relaxing bath in warm (not hot) water with colloidal oatmeal. Other alternatives include applying calamine lotion to the area or soaking a washcloth in milk and placing it on your belly.
5. Get Glowing
Highlight your features by covering any blemishes or dark circles with a mineral-based, non-comedogenic product that won’t clog pores. Mineral makeup sits on top of skin and isn’t likely to cause irritation.
6. Turn Back the Clock
Your regular anti-wrinkle cream likely contains ingredients that may not be safe to use while pregnant, such as vitamin A derivatives typically used in anti-aging products, including retinol. Nosh on foods that contain antioxidants such as salmon, berries, olive oil and dark green vegetables. These help ward off free radicals and act as anti-inflammatories.
7. Fresh Start
Once you’ve given birth, the hyper pigmentation associated with melasma should begin to fade. Exfoliation will encourage cell turnover and bring the fresher, non-pigmented skin to the forefront. Make your own scrub with sugar and olive oil or try products with physical exfoliants such as ground walnut shells or rice.
8. Here Comes the Sun
While your safest best is always physical protection such as clothing, hats and sunglasses, sunscreen is often necessary. First, look for ones with zinc or titanium dioxide and as a second option ones with avobenzone or Mexoryl Sx.
9. Spot On
Many acne fighters such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are big no-nos for expectant mothers. Use an oil-free moisturizer and gentle face wash to get clear skin and try homemade masks using oatmeal, olive oil and egg whites.
10. A New Beginning
“Pregnancy is the perfect opportunity to reassess your beauty routine and reduce your overall environmental chemical exposure,” says DesChâtelets. After birth, look for products that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities to promote healing such as eucalyptus oil, aloe vera, green tea and echinacea.
