jANUARY 23, 2023

Skin changes during pregnancy

with Dermatologist, Dr Katherine Armour

For many women pregnancy brings glowing & radiant skin, however, for others, pregnancy can cause a variety of skin conditions. Let’s dive into why this happens and some skin care ingredients you can look out for to minimise or prevent the various changes.

When you become pregnant hormones that are a part of your normal menstrual cycle, rise dramatically. This can cause a variety of changes to your skin.

The most common skin changes due to pregnancy:

Melasma
- One of the main skin issues that develops during pregnancy is melasma, more popularly known as ‘mask of pregnancy’. This causes unsightly brown patches to form on the face. As it is caused by both hormones and sun exposure, your best defence during pregnancy is the consistent use of a broad -spectrum SPF.
Mild to moderate flares of acne
- Increased blood flow and oil production while pregnant can result in acne. Especially if you have been prone to acne in the past.
Mild to moderate flares of rosacea
- is a common skin condition that causes blushing or flushing and visible blood vessels in your face. There’s no cure for rosacea, but you can control or reduce the symptoms.
Mild to moderate flares of eczema
- an itchy inflammation of the skin.

Ways to reduce the skin conditions & prevent them becoming worse

1 – Wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen every day – this is safe to do so during pregnancy.

2 – Use multitasking ingredients that target pigmentation and inflammation but are also safe for use during pregnancy. Some of Dr Armour’s favourites are:

Bakuchiol a unique multitasker that increases cell turnover, reduces fine lines/wrinkles, combats photo damage and stimulates collagen production. It works on the same receptors in our skin as retinoids (Vitamin A), however it is safe for use during pregnancy.
Niacinamide visibly reduces the appearance of pores, regulates oil production and improves blotchy pigmentation.
Green Tea is a calming, anti-inflammatory antioxidant that helps neutralise the adverse effects of UV exposure and unwanted pigmentation.
Resveratrol brightens the skin while also soothing and plumping the skin.
Astaxanthin is a powerhouse at combating unwanted pigmentation and sun damage. When topically applied, skin becomes brighter and more luminous.
Ferulic acid is great for fading and preventing dark spots. It can also help to reduce redness in the skin.

However, certain skin care ingredients should not be used during pregnancy:

Vitamin A (Retinoids)
Glycolic Acid

Our 4 Bespoke hero products have all been designed specifically for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. These include Dream Cream, Radiance Reset, Replenish Cleansing Butter & Luminosity Serum.

An anti-aging ingredient you’re probably not using, but should!

Did you know that Bakuchiol is a functional analogue of topical retinoids (vitamin A)? This means that although it has no structural resemblance to topical retinoids, it works on the same receptors in our skin to improve fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and congestion.

The women behind Bespoke

What does IWD mean to you?

KA: International Women’s Day is a time to be grateful for all the amazing women in my life who have mentored, cared for, and inspired me – from my Mum, to close friends, and teachers.

On our radar

Dream Cream

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