Introduction
Dryness in the skin is often associated with weather changes. Skin tends to become dry in winter. Some individuals experience dryness in their skin throughout the year if they have a dry skin type. However, in addition to weather changes, dry skin can also be associated with pregnancy. Dry skin during the early stages of pregnancy can cause itchiness. For women who already have dry skin, this might exacerbate the condition, while for those who have never experienced dry skin before, it might be distressing. Interestingly, dry skin can be effectively managed with proper care and treatments. This article will look into the causes of dry skin during pregnancy, its effects, and treatment options. To learn more, continue reading this article.
Why Is Skin Dry During Pregnancy?
Throughout pregnancy, the body undergoes numerous hormonal changes. The levels of some hormones go up, and some go down. Interestingly, the primary cause of dry skin during pregnancy is hormonal changes. Specifically, the female sex hormone estrogen increases during pregnancy. These elevated estrogen levels inhibit the production of sebum, the skin's natural oil that is controlled by androgen hormones, resulting in skin dryness and tightness. Additionally, increased levels of another hormone called vasopressin, which helps retain fluid in the blood volume during pregnancy, can reduce hydration to the skin. These hormonal fluctuations result in decreased elasticity and moisture in the skin as it stretches to accommodate the growing belly. These all collectively lead to symptoms such as flakiness, itchiness, and other common signs of dry skin.
How Does Dry Skin Feel In Pregnancy?
While most women typically experience dry and itchy skin in the stomach area during pregnancy, some may also feel itchiness in other areas, such as the thighs, breasts, and arms. Furthermore, some pregnant women may experience itchy red bumps on their bellies during the third trimester. The dryness that spreads to the arms and legs, along with red, itchy, or elevated areas, could be a sign of a pregnancy condition called PUPPP (pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy). Usually, PUPPP resolves after delivery. However, doctors may prescribe medication to alleviate symptoms if necessary.
Sometimes, skin can become excessively dry, which may indicate a medical condition like dehydration, which poses a risk of preterm labor. Experiencing drier-than-usual skin during pregnancy is normal due to hormonal fluctuations and the skin's stretching to accommodate a growing baby. Fortunately, simple lifestyle changes like drinking more water, using a thicker moisturizer, and applying it more frequently can help manage dry skin caused by pregnancy. If dry skin persists despite these efforts or if there is a sudden increase in itchiness, contacting healthcare providers is important.
How to Manage Dry Skin in Pregnancy?
To effectively manage dry skin during pregnancy, consider implementing the following strategies:
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Moisturize with Natural Ingredients: Utilize moisturizers such as olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter, or cocoa butter, which provide intense hydration and are rich in antioxidants. A few drops should be applied to damp skin to prevent a greasy feeling.
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Choose Gentle Cleansers: Avoid body washes and soaps containing harsh alcohol, fragrances, or dyes, as they can irritate the skin. Instead, opt for natural cleansers like a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water or homemade soap made with moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil and raw honey.
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Utilize Dairy Products: Incorporate yogurt into the skincare routine, as it contains lactic acid and protein that can help hydrate and detoxify the skin. Milk baths are also beneficial, utilizing the natural lactic acid in milk to eliminate dead skin cells and moisturize the skin.
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Limit Shower Time and Temperature: Extended use of hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Opt for lukewarm water instead of hot, and limit shower time to prevent moisture loss.
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Use Non-Soap Cleansers: Opt for gentle cleansers, which cause less irritation or are less likely to dry out the skin. Limit soap usage to once a day and pat the skin dry with a soft towel.
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Apply Moisturizer Immediately After Cleansing: Seal in moisture by applying moisturizer immediately after cleansing, including after washing hands. Reapply moisturizer throughout the day, especially in dry or windy weather.
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Hydrating Facial Masks: Treat the skin to hydrating facial masks once a week to provide an extra boost of moisture and nourishment.
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Sun Protection: Shield the skin from sun damage by wearing sunscreen and having at least SPF 15 daily, along with a wide-brimmed hat to shield the face from harmful UV rays.
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Maintain a Healthy Diet and Hydration: Incorporate foods rich in good fats, such as olive oil, nuts, and avocados, into the diet to support skin health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep the skin hydrated from within.
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Use a Humidifier: If an individual is living in a dry climate, they should consider using a humidifier in the room to keep proper moisture levels in the air, which can help prevent dryness in the skin.
Which Skin Care Ingredient Should Not Be Used in Pregnancy?
Some ingredients commonly found in skincare products are not considered safe for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It is suggested to avoid products containing these ingredients:
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Formaldehyde, which has been linked to cancer and nervous system issues.
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High-dose salicylic acid may pose a risk to a developing baby. While low-dose topical application is generally considered safe, the safety of high doses during pregnancy is uncertain.
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Hydroquinone, for which there is insufficient scientific data to confirm its safety during pregnancy. It is best not to use it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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Phthalates may increase the risk of stillbirth and gestational diabetes.
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Retinoids are known to be potentially harmful to a developing fetus or breastfeeding child. However, some retinoids are now considered safe for use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hair and skin go through some changes in pregnancy due to shifts in hormonal levels. The most common change is dry skin. Although it is very common in pregnancy, pregnant women should still watch out for their symptoms and should contact their gynecologist or midwives if it becomes severe or skin lesions start to appear.
