Congratulations on your pregnancy! Now, let the real adventure begin. Everything changes when you are pregnant, including the state of your skin. Some women will quickly exude that much-coveted pregnancy glow; some women breakout; and some women suffer from swelling and stretch marks. Some of you may even experience it all. With the right preparation, you can minimize the less pleasant pregnancy skin side effects and maximize the positive.
The Glow
The pregnancy glow is one of the greatest perks of pregnancy for many women. The glow is believed to originate from the additional hormone surges being produced in your body, as well as the additional blood circulating in your body. While this glow is hugely welcomed for many women, it can go too far by producing too much oil which could trigger acne.
If you had pimples before your pregnancy, hang on as it may just get worse before it gets better. If you did not have pimples before, you might escape the pregnancy pimple curse. Unfortunately, scientists and doctors have no idea who will get them and who will not, however you can prevent them from becoming worse. The one aspect you want to pay close attention to regarding your pregnancy pimples is to note that many pimple medications contain active ingredients that can harm your baby. Speak with your doctor about ingredients to avoid and which products are safe. Also, be sure to clean your face each morning and night and do not forget to exfoliate regularly to keep your pores clear and clean.
Stretch Marks
Have you ever wondered how some women manage to walk away from a pregnancy without nary a stretch mark whilst other women have them terribly? Much like that of pimples, it is a bit of a mystery as to who will suffer more; however, also like pimples, you can take preventative measures to reduce them if not prevent them altogether. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the best defense against stretch marks is to maximize your skin’s elasticity throughout your pregnancy. This can be accomplished by drinking plenty of water, exercise, use a safe topical product on your belly as early as the first trimester, and eat foods rich in the following:
- Vitamins B2 and B3
- Vitamin C and E
- Silica
- Zinc
Swelling
Swelling is another unfortunate side effect to the impending bundle of joy. It originates primarily from the additional blood and fluids you are producing. You may experience swelling in your feet, hands, face, legs, and ankles. This can be a quite unpleasant experience for some women. In fact, many women will have to buy new shoes because their feet swell so much. In an effort to prevent swelling and stretching of the skin, be sure to monitor the amount of sodium you consume, eat a minimal amount of potassium, do not stand for long periods, keep cool in summer, and avoid caffeine.
Sleep
Despite the fact you are more exhausted than you ever have been in your life, you may find it difficult to sleep because you are uncomfortable or simply because you are too busy with life to rest your eyes as much as you need. Try to sleep whenever possible as it is imperative for your health, the health of your child, and the health of your skin. Whether pregnant or not, your skin requires sleep to function properly just as you do. Some of the skin side effects from lack of sufficient sleep include an increase in acne and dermatitis, the worsening of skin diseases including eczema and psoriasis, lack of moisture renewal, premature aging, more damaged cells, and a breakdown of your natural collagen. The more you sleep, the better you will feel and look!
While you will not be able to avoid some of the somewhat challenging skin side effects of pregnancy, you will be able to minimize them with a minor efforts. Wash your face, eat the right foods, and get enough sleep to look and feel your best throughout each stage of your pregnancy.