Not everyone has perfect skin during this hormone-crazed stage of life called pregnancy. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with excitement and anticipation. But it also comes with its fair share of skin changes. Pigmentation in pregnancy, continues to be one of the most bothersome dermatological symptoms in pregnancy. Often sticking around long after the delight of your baby’s arrival, especially in those with more melaninated skin.
Up to 90% of women experience hyperpigmentation in pregnancy. Most hyperpigmentation in pregnancy appears early, progresses until delivery, and resolves in the postpartum period, usually without treatment. Areas commonly affected by pigmentation in pregnancy include the areola of the breasts, the inner thighs, and the midline of the abdomen. Areas of the skin that experience more pronounced hyperpigmentation typically do not return to the previous skin tone without treatment.
In today’s post, I am peeling back the curtain with this ultimate guide to pregnancy-safe pigmentation treatments.
Pigmentation in Pregnancy
Melasma or Chloasma AKA “mask of pregnancy” is an example of pigmentation in pregnancy. Melasma is caused by higher levels of estrogen, progesterone and endorphins during pregnancy. These hormones excite and activate pigment producing skin cells (melanocytes). This theory is supported by cases of women who experience hyperpigmentation while taking oral contraceptives or using other forms of hormonal contraceptives. Melasma most often occurs in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Mainly at the cheeks, chin, nose bridge, forehead, upper lip, and neck, and can be notoriously difficult to treat.
Conventional treatments of melasma include the use of topical retinoids, corticosteroids, and lightening agents like hydroquinone. Used either alone or in combination therapies. While these conventional treatments have proven to be efficacious, you must consider the safety of certain skincare actives in pregnancy.
Pregnancy-Safe Pigmentation Treatment Options
Now, on to the good stuff, how to treat pigmentation in pregnancy safely and effectively. The key here is to opt for gentle treatments that won’t harm you or your baby. Luckily there are plenty of pregnancy-safe options available that can help to lighten and brighten your skin. Let’s start with the basics.
SPF is Your BFF
Those pregnancy hormones make your skin extra sun-shy, so be sure to protect your skin. Sun exposure can worsen existing hyperpigmentation and increase your risk of developing new dark spots and patches. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher religiously, even on cloudy days. Apply it generously to all exposed areas of skin, including face, neck, and décolletage. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours, especially if you are spending time outdoors. During pregnancy, physical sunscreen is the safest option because titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are inorganic and not absorbable. Although no damaging effects to the baby has been reported, use chemical sunscreens with caution during pregnancy.
Best Picks: Supergoop Sheer Sunscreen, Olay Regenerist Mineral Sunscreen.
The ABC’s of Pregnancy-Safe Skincare
One of the most effective treatments for melasma during pregnancy is topical skincare products containing the ABC’s of pregnancy safe skincare: azelaic acid, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), and vitamin C.
Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid. It reduces the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation and it’s safe for use in pregnancy. Making it a great option for you to brighten your complexion during pregnancy.
Another safe and effective option for treating pigmentation during pregnancy is niacinamide AKA vitamin B3. Niacinamide inhibits melanin production and reduces the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It also has an added bonus of strengthening the skin barrier and improving overall skin health.
Last but certainly not least is vitamin C. A powerhouse antioxidant that not only helps to protect the skin from environmental damage, but also brightens and fades dark spots and evens out your skin tone.
Best Picks: Isispharma Teen Derm A.Z, Balance Active Formula Niacinamide Blemish Recovery Serum, Timeless Skincare 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic acid Serum.
Next Up: Gentle Exfoliation
There are plenty of pregnancy-safe exfoliating ingredients that can help to slug away dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, more even complexion. Look for ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and fruit enzymes, which are gentle enough for pregnant skin but still effective at promoting cell turnover, revealing brighter, more radiant skin underneath.
Best Picks: Artnaturals Lactic Acid Plus AHA Face Serum, Reviva Labs Gentle Exfoliating Fruit Enzyme Mask.
A More Natural Approach
Turmeric, a popular spice used in many cultures, contains curcumin which promotes skin lightening, and suppresses cutaneous inflammation. The topical application of turmeric is safe in pregnancy.
Another natural alternative is green tea extract. An antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent which has been proven to help treat melasma and pigmentation disorders by inhibiting UV-induced erythema and protecting DNA from UV radiation.
There’s more, kojic acid, a natural metabolite produced by fungi is a tyrosinase inhibitor (the primary enzyme responsible for melanin synthesis). Kojic acid has significant antioxidant properties and protects against UV damage. Studies have shown that kojic acid can significantly improve hyperpigmentation and is safe for use in pregnancy. In particular, kojic acid formulated with vitamin E and lactic acid, has been found to be especially effective in treating melasma.
Best Picks: Reviva Labs Kojic Acid Brightening Créme, Andalou Naturals Tumeric + C Enlighten Serum.
Of course, as always, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any pigmentation treatment during pregnancy. They can provide personalised guidance based on your individual needs and medical history, ensuring that you choose the safest and most effective option for you and your baby.
Be Patient, Mama
So, there you have it, Mama. A comprehensive guide to pigmentation in pregnancy and pregnancy safe treatment options. Whether you opt for topical skincare, natural remedies, or simply practicing sun protection and self-care in pregnancy, there are plenty of safe and effective options to help you achieve a radiant and glowing complexion during pregnancy. But remember, pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with ups and downs, so be patient with yourself, embrace the changes, and cherish the moments.
