As exciting and gratifying as becoming a new mom is, between feedings, diaper changes, and an endless list of new baby duties, your self care most likely takes a backseat. However, just because you're in mom mode, it doesn’t mean your skin has to look tired too! In fact, with a few easy adjustments to your skincare routine, you can feel at your best in your new role. So, together, let’s figure out what you and your skin needs.
Postpartum Changes
Everyone knows that pregnancy brings about a host of changes in a woman’s body, and the skin is no exception. Yet, the unpredictability of the way our skin acts during and after childbirth is not often talked about. After pregnancy, during the postpartum period, when your body is adjusting to your new role, there are many unexpected surprises in the form of changes to the skin. These changes are largely driven by fluctuating hormones, lifestyle shifts, and a lack of sleep.
Understanding what’s happening to your skin and how to address these issues can help you manage your new mom self care routine with confidence. This guide aims to help you prepare in terms of what to expect in relation to postpartum skin changes, the most common issues new moms face, and tips on how to address these issues effectively.
Hormonal Changes
The main reason for postpartum skin changes is the shift in hormone levels after giving birth. During pregnancy, oestrogen and progesterone levels soar, leading to that healthy, glowing skin many pregnant women enjoy. However, after childbirth, these hormone levels rapidly decline, triggering a variety of skin issues.
Since there is a drop in oestrogen and progesterone, the hormones that maintain moisture, elasticity, and collagen production, their sudden decline can lead to dry and dull skin. Androgen levels too, such as testosterone, remain elevated postpartum, which can trigger an increase in oil production, leading to postpartum acne.
Moreover, because of sleep deprivation and stress of caring for a new baby, it is possible to experience a cortisol spike, the stress hormone. This can increase skin sensitivity and lead to breakouts.
Postpartum Acne
One of the most common postpartum skin changes is acne. Hormonal fluctuations can cause your skin’s oil production to increase, resulting in clogged pores and breakouts, even if you had clear skin during pregnancy.
How to address it
- Gentle cleansing: Use a mild cleanser like the Clariderm Anti-Acne Face Wash to help keep breakouts in check. This cleanser effectively cleanses the skin by fighting bacteria but avoids overly drying products that could irritate your skin.
- Non-comedogenic moisturiser: Hydration is key, even for oily skin. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers to balance your skin without clogging pores.
Dry, Flaky Skin
After pregnancy, the skin tends to become dry due to the hormonal changes.
How to address it
- Moisturise diligently: As discussed above, switch to a richer, hydrating moisturiser that contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture. The Hydra FX Moisturizing Cream is perfect because it contains hyaluronic acid which can help attract and retain moisture in the skin and can work with your moisturiser to address the dryness effectively. It is a lightweight, fast absorbing moisturiser that hydrates, repairs, protects, and strengthens the skin barrier.
Hyperpigmentation and Melasma
Many women experience melasma, a condition where dark patches appear on the skin, usually on the face. This is caused by a combination of hormonal changes and increased melanin production during pregnancy. After delivery, these patches may linger or even become more noticeable, especially if not properly protected from the sun.
How to address it
- Sun protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even if you’re indoors or it’s cloudy. Sun exposure worsens hyperpigmentation. The Solero Sunblock Range is definitely your best bet.
- Brightening ingredients: Look for skin-brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and licorice root extract, which help fade dark spots over time, as found in the Wynn Brightening & Depigmentation Serum and Cream.
- Chemical exfoliants: Gentle exfoliants like lactic acid and glycolic acid can help speed up cell turnover and lighten dark spots.
Stretch marks and loose skin
Stretch marks and loose skin are common after giving birth, as your skin has stretched to accommodate your growing baby. Stretch marks usually appear as pink, red, or purple streaks and fade over time. Loose skin, on the other hand, might take time as the body slowly reshapes itself.
How to address it
- Moisturise with oils and butters: Use products with cocoa butter, shea butter, or rosehip oil to help improve skin elasticity and hydration.
- Massage the skin: Regularly massaging your stretch marks with these oils can help improve their appearance over time.
- Stay hydrated: Keeping your body hydrated from the inside can aid skin elasticity as it recovers post-pregnancy.
Increased sensitivity
Postpartum hormonal shifts can make your skin more prone to irritation and inflammation. Conditions like rosacea or eczema may flare up during this time.
How to address it
- Simplify your skincare: Stick to a basic, soothing routine. Avoid harsh exfoliants or treatments that might aggravate sensitive skin.
- Calming ingredients: Look for products with chamomile, or aloe vera which have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Patch test new products: With heightened skin sensitivity, it’s important to patch test any new product to make sure it won’t cause a reaction.
Dark circles
Lack of sleep and constant baby care often result in dark circles and puffy eyes. Your skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate, so it tends to show how tired you are.
How to address it
- Hydrating eye creams: Look for eye creams that contain hyaluronic acid, peptides, or caffeine, which help hydrate, reduce puffiness, and brighten dark circles.
- Cold compresses: Apply a cold spoon or chilled cucumber slices over your eyes to help reduce puffiness.
- Prioritise sleep: Though sleep is hard to come by, any small naps or rest you can grab will help your skin recover.
Postpartum Hair Loss
While not strictly a skin issue, postpartum hair loss affects many new moms. During pregnancy, higher levels of oestrogen keep hair in the growth phase longer, making it appear thicker and fuller. Since oestrogen levels go down after childbirth, more hair is shed.
How to address it
- Be gentle with your scalp: Use a gentle shampoo that targets hair loss such as the Tressfix Hairfall & Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, and avoid harsh styling or tight hairstyles that put stress on your hair. Make sure your after shower hair care routine is also up to the mark with treatments such as the Tressfix Anti-Hairfall & Regrowth Serum to not only promote hair growth but also to make it look its best at all times.
- Nourish from within: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially biotin, vitamin D, and iron, all of which support healthy hair growth.
Building a Routine
Establishing a simple, effective skin care routine can help address postpartum concerns without overwhelming your schedule. Start with the basics, and remember that consistency is key:
- Cleanse – Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser morning and night to remove impurities without stripping your skin.
- Treat – Apply a serum or cream with safe active ingredients for brightening and balancing.
- Moisturise – Choose a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturiser that will support your skin’s moisture barrier.
- Protect – Sunscreen is essential for addressing hyperpigmentation and preventing further darkening of spots or melasma.
At night, you can use a hydrating serum or nourishing face oil to help repair the skin while you rest. If possible, incorporate a quick facial massage before bedtime to enhance circulation and aid in lymphatic drainage.
Safe Ingredients
When addressing postpartum skin issues, it’s essential to choose safe, gentle ingredients, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Some powerful skincare ingredients are off-limits, but thankfully, many effective options are both safe and gentle.
- Hyaluronic acid can deeply replenish moisture without irritating sensitive postpartum skin.
- Vitamin C is a gentle antioxidant that helps brighten skin and combat hyperpigmentation. It’s safe to use during breastfeeding and works well to even out skin tone.
- Niacinamide is a powerhouse ingredient that helps reduce inflammation, soothe acne, and minimise pores. It’s also effective for brightening and can safely address a variety of skin concerns.
- Aloe vera, chamomile, and licorice root are wonderful calming, natural ingredients that provide anti-inflammatory benefits, ideal for sensitive or reactive skin during this phase.
- Peptides are gentle, safe, and great for promoting skin elasticity, helping to address loose skin and fine lines.
When selecting products, avoid strong retinoids or high concentrations of salicylic acid as these may not be safe during breastfeeding.
Consult a Professional
It is important to remember that every postpartum journey is unique, and if you feel you need it, professional guidance might be worthwhile. A dermatologist can assess your specific concerns and recommend safe treatments and ingredients tailored to your skin’s needs.
Final Thoughts: New Mom Glow, Here You Come!
The postpartum period is not easy, and your skin is often a reflection of the journey your body is going through. While it may be frustrating to deal with acne, dryness, or dark spots after having a baby, it’s important to remember that these changes are temporary. With gentle care, patience, and the right skin care approach, your skin can look even better as a new mom.
Above all, be kind to yourself and remember that it takes time for your body to readjust. Your body and skin have just performed an incredible feat, and they deserve all the love and care you can give them.
