Common Skin Challenges During Pregnancy

When you're pregnant, there are a lot of things to expect in terms of your changing body-a growing belly, larger breasts, maybe even some swollen hands and feet. But did you know your skin can change, too? Here are 5 different skin changes you might experience during your pregnancy and how to try to prevent (or minimize) them.

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Stretch Marks:

This is probably the most common (and most discussed) skin change that pregnant mamas experience. In fact, as many as 90% of pregnant people experience them. As your body changes and grows, you might begin to notice pinkish streaks on your belly, breasts, or even hips. Many mamas apply lotions and stretch mark creams to their expanding bellies (most contain Vitamin E and/ or alpha-hydroxy acids) to try and prevent them from occurring. While these remedies aren't medically proven to work, it doesn't hurt to try. If you do get some stretch marks, fear not, they'll fade and look more like faint silver lines after delivery. And you can take comfort in the fact that most of your fellow mamas have them too. Think of them as a reminder of the amazing miracle your body created.

Melasma :

Sometimes known as the "mask of pregnancy," melasma causes dark, splotchy spots to appear on your face (typically around the forehead and cheeks). The cause? All of the pregnancy hormones in your body lead to increased pigmentation and sensitivity to the sun. About half of all pregnant mamas deal with some form of melasma. But there's good news! If you experience melasma during pregnancy, you should notice that the spots begin to fade after delivery. To keep melasma at bay, use a good SPF whenever you're outside, and wear a hat with a brim to protect your face from the sun.