Pregnancy can be wonderful, exhausting, hopeful, uncomfortable… and really itchy and dry. But don’t fret: dry skin during pregnancy is incredibly common due to hormonal fluctuations and changes in your body's moisture levels. And while you may be nervous about what products are pregnancy friendly and not, the good news is that there are ways to remedy the situation safely and effectively.
Before we start getting into the nitty gritty of products and tips, here at Sorette, we always want to acknowledge the amazing work your body is doing right this moment. It is doing incredible things as it nurtures new life, and any changes you're experiencing are part of this miraculous process. Having grace and understanding with yourself will help you figure out what really works for your well-being.
So, let's delve into why dry skin happens during pregnancy and explore safe and effective ways to alleviate it.
Understanding Dry Skin During Pregnancy
There are several bodily operations at work that can contribute to your dry skin during pregnancy. First and foremost, hormonal shifts during pregnancy can lead to changes in your skin's texture and moisture levels. As your body works tirelessly to support the growth and development of your baby, it's not uncommon for your skin to become drier than usual.
Increased blood volume could also be a factor for you. During pregnancy, a woman's blood volume increases significantly to support the growing fetus and placenta – you know, that entire human and giant organ you’re building from scratch. This process can divert moisture away from the skin, contributing to dryness.
Oh, and you know how you’ve been peeing all the time? Dehydration can also contribute to dry skin. During pregnancy, keeping up with the increased thirst and urination can be difficult, and if dehydration strikes, it can manifest as dry skin, as the body prioritizes vital organs over the skin when distributing available moisture.
Additionally, factors such as environmental conditions, dietary changes, and genetics can exacerbate this issue. So while some things are out of your control and others can be helped, here are some tips to dealing with your dry skin during pregnancy.
How to Help Dry Skin During Pregnancy
Hydration is Key
Pick your favorite, stainless steel water bottle and keep her full! Because hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health, ensure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated from within.
Gentle Cleansing
Opt for mild, safer for pregnancy cleansers that won't strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for products without parabens or phthalates and avoid harsh chemicals like retinol and retinoids.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Invest in a nourishing moisturizer to replenish lost moisture and soothe dry skin. Look for products containing ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, which help lock in hydration without clogging pores.
Oils for Nourishment
Consider incorporating natural oils such as almond oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil into your skincare routine. These oils are rich in vitamins and fatty acids that deeply moisturize and nourish the skin.
Protect Your Skin
We never need an excuse to wear a cute hat pool-side, but year-round skin protection through SPF is so important. Shield your skin from the sun and other harsh weather conditions with clothing and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so sun protection is crucial.
Humidify Your Environment
An easy way to nourish the skin from the outside without even thinking about is by using a humidifier. Adding moisture to your “every day” air helps prevent your skin from drying out, especially during the winter months or in dry climates.
Goodbye Dry Skin During Pregnancy, Hello Safer Self-Care
Above all, remember to prioritize self-care during this special time in your life. Taking moments for yourself to indulge in skincare rituals can be incredibly soothing and beneficial for both your physical and emotional well-being. Whether it's a relaxing bath, a gentle massage with your favorite moisturizer, or simply taking a few deep breaths to center yourself, cherish these moments of self-nurturing.
And remember, experiencing dry skin during pregnancy is entirely normal, and there are safe and effective ways to address it. By adopting a gentle skincare routine, staying hydrated, and embracing self-care, you can nurture your skin and radiate the glow of motherhood with confidence.
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