Ready, Steady, Glow!

While a fortunate few sport a glow, most have to deal with dull and pigmented skin during pregnancy. Here’s a guide to combat those prenatal skin blues.

- Aparrna Gupta

That the skin glows during pregnancy is one of the biggest myths of modern times. I, for one, expected the skin to start emitting that coveted radiance as soon as the test strip showed a positive result. Of course, I was disappointed as my skin didn’t show any signs of radiance until the last month. That’s the time I perfected my glow-getting make-up techniques, as I was tired of answering why I looked drained all the time. However, there are definitely a few who have good skin and hair days during these nine months, and not without reason.

Changes in the hormonal levels can reduce acne and even smoothen fine lines. But for some, the increase in progesterone levels could cause havoc. Pigmentation is a fairly common by-product of pregnancy, especially in Indian women. Women might get patchy or facial skin discolouration on the upper cheeks, upper lips, forehead or chin, often referred to as ‘melasma’ or the mask of pregnancy. It’s here that one has to be wary of over-the-counter beauty products as many skin lightening and anti-aging products can contain retinols, which are vitamin A derivatives known to cause birth defects in the foetus.