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SKINCARE FOR PREGNANCY: YOUR GUIDE TO MATERNITY SKINCARE

Updated: Oct 14, 2023


Pregnancy skincare and massage with moisturiser

Hey there, mum-to-be! Congratulations on that beautiful bump! As you embark on this incredible journey of pregnancy, taking care of your skin becomes even more important. Get ready to rock your pregnancy glow with these valuable skincare tips that will keep your skin healthy, happy, and radiant throughout this special time.


During pregnancy, your body undergoes numerous changes, and your skin is no exception. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to various skincare changes. Some expectant mums experience an incredible pregnancy glow, with radiant and supple skin. However, others may face challenges such as dryness, sensitivity, and breakouts. As you move through pregnancy your hormones will change to prepare for the baby and you'll also see your skin fluctuate too.


In this article, we will explore the skincare changes during pregnancy, why it happens, and which skincare products can help keep your skin happy and healthy.


This includes the following:

How your skin changes during pregnancy

So, you're growing a tiny human inside you, and your body is going through some major changes. Guess what? Your skin is in on the action too! Here are a few skincare changes you might experience during pregnancy and what causes them:

  1. Hormonal Fluctuations: Ah, those delightful pregnancy hormones! They can wreak havoc on your skin. As those hormonal levels go haywire, you might notice an increase in oil production, leading to annoying breakouts and acne flare-ups. Blame it on those little mischief-makers!

  2. Increased Blood Flow: Your body is working overtime to nurture that precious bun in the oven, and that means your blood flow is amped up. The result? A rosy, flushed complexion that gives you that sought-after pregnancy glow. Think of it as your body's way of saying, "Hey, I'm creating magic here!"

  3. Melasma and Hyperpigmentation: Thanks to those hormonal rollercoaster rides, you might notice dark patches or uneven skin tone, especially on your lovely face. This condition, known as melasma, is like an unwanted souvenir from pregnancy. Shield your skin from the sun's rays and consider using products with brightening ingredients like vitamin C to show those patches who's boss!

  4. Dryness and Sensitivity: Ah, the joys of pregnancy hormones strike again! They can throw your skin's moisture balance out of whack, leaving you with dry and sensitive skin. You might experience itchiness and tightness as well. Time to slather on some gentle and hydrating skincare products to give your skin the love and moisture it craves.

Skincare Tips for a Happy and Healthy Pregnancy Glow

Now that you know what your skin might go through during this beautiful journey, let's dive into some down-to-earth tips to keep your skin in the best shape possible:

  1. Treat Your Skin with TLC: Be gentle! Opt for mild and fragrance-free cleansers that won't strip away your skin's natural oils. Treat your face and body with a loving touch and avoid harsh scrubbing. After all, your skin deserves to be pampered during this special time.

  2. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration: Say hello to your BFF – moisturiser! Keep your skin hydrated and happy by using a rich pregnancy body butter like our heavenly Bump N' Body Butter to help improve your skin's elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Trust us, your skin will thank you!

  3. Sunscreen, Your New Bestie: Want to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays and prevent those dark patches from getting worse? Slather on some pregnancy-safe sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Shield that beautiful face and body from the sun's sneaky ways!

  4. Embrace Natural Remedies: When it comes to skincare, nature has some incredible tricks up her sleeve. Look for products with natural base oils like jojoba and avocado oil, as well as skincare boosting essential oils that are recommended for pregnancy.

How can I Prevent Stretch Marks?

One common companion that often joins the pregnancy party is stretch marks. So what causes them to appear and how can you prevent them from happening?


What are stretch marks?

Most of us are probably familiar with stretch marks from growth spurts when we were younger. Stretch marks during pregnancy occur when your skin stretches to accommodate your growing baby bump (or bumps if you're lucky enough to be carrying multiples!). As your body undergoes rapid changes, the elastic fibers in your skin can sometimes get stretched beyond their limits, resulting in those beautiful marks.

Ashley Graham showing stretch marks after pregnancy
ashleygraham/Instagram

The NHS estimate that 8 out of 10 women will get stretch marks during pregnancy. Woah! So please be reassured that they're super common.


What is awesome is that more and more celebs are proudly showing off their post pregnancy stretch marks.


Just take a look at Ashley Graham rocking her stretch marks three months after her twins were born.

Hi, new tummy, We’ve been through a lot. Thank you #3monthspostpartum" Ashley Graham


When do stretch marks appear?

Stretch marks typically appear in the second trimester of pregnancy, between 13 and 21 weeks but can develop at any time between conception and delivery. When they first appear they are typically red, purple, pink, brown, depending on your skin colour. Over time they fades into a pale, silvery line.


They tend to appear on the tummy, hips, thighs and breasts, as these are the areas where you see the most body changes.


So why do stretch marks occur during pregnancy?

  1. Genetics: If your mum, sister, or aunt has stretch marks, chances are you might get them too. Genetics play a role in determining your risk of developing pregnancy stretch marks

  2. Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, your body goes through hormonal changes that loosen the collagen fibers in your skin, making it easier for the skin to tear when it stretches.

  3. Twins or Multiples: When you're carrying more than one baby, your belly may be bigger, and you might experience slightly more weight gain during pregnancy. This can result in your skin stretching a bit more compared to a pregnancy with just one baby.

  4. Weight Gain: Now, let's talk about weight gain. It's a natural and healthy part of pregnancy, but keeping it within the recommended range can be beneficial in preventing excessive stretching of the skin. Talk to your healthcare provider about what's considered a healthy weight gain for your body type and stage of pregnancy. Remember, it's not about obsessing over numbers but finding a balance that works for you and your little one.

So what can you do about stretch marks?

Despite lots and lots of research, there isn't a clinically proven cream out there that will prevent or remove stretch marks when they appear. What a bummer! That said there is some research that promotes the benefit of pregnancy massage to help promote skin elasticity.


Using natural body butters and oils that are rich in nutrients may not be clinically proven to prevent stretch marks but may help minimise their appearance. Time to book out some 'me-time' and indulge in a pregnancy pampering session.


Your body is doing something truly extraordinary, and those marks are a beautiful reminder of the incredible journey you're on. Rock those tiger stripes with pride momma...... you're frigging awesome!


How To Tell If Skincare Products are Safe During Pregnancy

When it comes to looking after your skin during pregnancy, it's important to use products that are safe for your little one. But with so many options out there, it can be tricky to figure out which ones are pregnancy-friendly.


No worries, though, here are some tips to help you find the right skincare products to use while you're expecting:

  1. Retinoids, Salicylic Acid, and Benzoyl Peroxide: These ingredients can be harmful to your little bundle of joy. Instead, opt for products that contain natural goodies like aloe vera, chamomile, and vitamin E. They're not only safe but also great for nourishing your skin.

  2. Hydroquinone: It's used to lighten skin, but save it for later. During pregnancy, it's best to avoid this stuff as it might not be so friendly to your baby.

  3. Phthalates: These guys are all about making plastic more flexible and durable, but they're not what you want in your beauty products. They're often hiding in fragrances and can mess with your hormones, which isn't good news for your baby. They've even been linked to premature birth.

  4. Parabens: They're the preservatives hanging out in skincare products, but they've got a reputation for messing with hormones. That's not what you want when you're growing a baby, so avoid these bad boys.

  5. Some Essential Oils: While some essential oils can be really helpful during pregnancy, others might not be so great. Some could cause complications like triggering uterine contractions. Plus, experts aren't entirely sure how they could affect you or your baby, so it's better to err on the side of caution.

  6. Artificial Colours: Choose products made with natural and organic ingredients. They're generally safer and gentler on your skin.

If you're unsure about a particular product or ingredient, it's always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider or a skincare specialist. They'll be able to give you the guidance you need to make the right choices for you and your baby.


Remember, taking care of your skin during pregnancy is important, but it's equally important to choose products that prioritise the safety of your little one.


Which Pregnancy Skincare Products Will I Need?

Fortunately, there are many skincare products available that can help prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks and other skin issues during pregnancy. The Rock Me Momma brand offers a wide range of pregnancy-safe skincare products that can help keep your skin healthy and glowing.


Belly Butter

The belly is one of the areas that are most affected by skin stretching during pregnancy. To keep your belly smooth and hydrated, you can use the Bump N Body Butter This luxurious butter contains shea butter, lavender, and coconut oil, which help to nourish the skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Body Butter for Massage During Pregnancy

Body Oil

Body oils are an excellent way to moisturise the skin and improve its elasticity. Our Rock Me Momma Body Oil is specially formulated for pregnant women and contains natural ingredients like jojoba oil, almond oil, and lavender oil. These oils help to soothe and hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation.


Nipple Cream

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, nipples can become dry and cracked. Our nipple balm is an excellent product for soothing and healing sore nipples. It contains natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and calendula oil, which help moisturise and protect the skin.


Facial Cleanser

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect the skin on the face, leading to acne and other skin issues. Pregnancy-safe facial cleanser should ideally be a gentle, non-toxic cleanser that is safe for pregnant women. It contains natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and lavender, which help to soothe and cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.


If you’re looking for an all-in-one skincare solution for pregnancy, our pregnancy skincare and bodycare set includes massage oil, foot scrubs and body oil to help you feel rejuvenated.


By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can create a pregnancy skincare routine that works for you, helping to nourish and protect your skin while avoiding any harmful ingredients that may harm you or your baby.


Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before trying any new skincare products or treatments during pregnancy to ensure the safety of you and your baby.


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