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How Pregnancy Can Change Your Skin

Pregnancy changes so much your body, your energy levels, your routines and your skin! The providers at North Florida Women’s Care, want you to feel confident about what’s normal, what’s safe, and how to care for your skin.
Some changes can feel exciting. Others can be frustrating. All of them are common.

What Exactly is Happening?

Hormones rise quickly during pregnancy, and your skin responds to those shifts. Some women notice a brighter, more radiant complexion often called the “pregnancy glow.” You may also see thicker hair and stronger nails.

At the same time, many women experience:

  • Breakouts – Even if you’ve never dealt with acne before, hormonal changes can trigger it.
  • Melasma – Darker patches on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip, sometimes referred to as the “mask of pregnancy.”
  • Hyperpigmentation – Darkening of certain areas, including the line down the abdomen (linea nigra).
  • Stretch marks – As your belly, chest, and hips expand.
  • More visible veins – Especially on the chest, legs, or abdomen.
  • Dryness or sensitivity – Skin may feel more reactive than usual.

Every pregnancy is different. You may notice several of these changes or very few. If something feels unusual or bothersome, please bring it up at your appointment. Skin concerns are part of your prenatal care, too.

Creating a Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Routine

During pregnancy, simple and gentle is usually best. You don’t need a complicated routine — just consistent, safe habits.

1. Cleanse Gently

Wash your face once or twice a day using a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants that can irritate already sensitive skin.

2. Moisturize Daily

As your body stretches and your skin adjusts, hydration becomes even more important. Choose a moisturizer that matches your skin type and avoids added fragrances, alcohol, or harsh ingredients. Keeping skin well-moisturized can also help improve comfort as your body changes.

3. Wear Sunscreen Every Day
Sun protection is especially important during pregnancy. Hormones can make pigmentation issues like melasma worse with sun exposure.
We recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. During pregnancy, mineral (physical) sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are typically preferred, as they sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed.

Even on cloudy days, daily sunscreen can make a noticeable difference.

Ingredients to Approach Carefully

Some ingredients that are common in everyday skincare products are not recommended during pregnancy.

Avoid:
  • Retinoids or retinol (often found in anti-aging or acne treatments)
  • High concentrations of salicylic acid
  • Hydroquinone (used for skin lightening)
  • Certain chemical sunscreen ingredients, such as oxybenzone

If you’re unsure about a product, bring it with you to your appointment. We’re happy to review labels with you.

There are also ingredients that may be appropriate but should still be discussed before starting — including products like vitamin C or glycolic acid. When in doubt, ask. What works outside of pregnancy is not always what we recommend during it.

When to Contact Our Office

Most pregnancy-related skin changes are temporary and improve after delivery. However, there are times when we want to hear from you.

Please reach out if you notice:
  • Sudden or severe skin changes
  • A rash that spreads or doesn’t improve
  • Significant itching, especially on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet
  • Any skin change that feels concerning or unusual

Persistent itching in particular can sometimes signal a condition called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, which requires medical evaluation.
If a skin concern needs more specialized care, we can absolutely refer you to a trusted dermatologist. Our goal is to make sure you feel supported and receive the right level of care at every stage of your pregnancy.

Pregnancy is a time of rapid change and that includes your skin. Our goal is to help you feel informed, supported, and comfortable in your body throughout this journey.

If you have questions about your skincare routine or any other concern, please send us a message through your patient portal or bring it up at your next visit. We’re here for every stage of your pregnancy, skin included.

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