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 Pregnancy and the Skin Mary Gail Mercurio, MD The dramatic hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can have direct effects on the skin. Many women may be alarmed by these skin changes, but are reassured to know that most are harmless symptoms of pregnancy that go away post-partum. Many women notice some degree of increased pigmentation (skin coloring) when they are pregnant. It is most marked in women with darker complexions. The pigmentary change that most often brings women to the dermatologist because of its highly visible nature is "melasma," appropriately nick-named the "mask of pregnancy." This is a gray-brown, blotchy, symmetrical coloring of the face, usually occurring on the forehead, cheeks and temples. This same rash may also occur in women taking oral contraceptives which, like pregnancy, also alter the hormonal mix. Exposure to ultraviolet light is the most important factor contributing to the development of melasma. Daily use of broad spectrum sun protection (one that blocks UVA and UVB rays) is the best way to prevent the development of this condition. Other areas that commonly darken during pregnancy are the areolae (around the nipples) and the line between the umbilicus (belly button) and the groin. Many women also experience a noticeable darkening of their moles and freckles. Increased blood volume during pregnancy can also cause changes in physical appearance. Blood vessels that are close to the skin's surface may swell and "burst," causing spider nevi to appear. These are red bumps with lines radiating out, resembling a spider's legs. Spider nevi most commonly occur on the face, neck and upper part of the body. The increased blood volume of pregnancy may also result in strikingly red palms, nail beds, gums and face - giving truth to the saying that pregnant women have a special "glow." The pregnant woman's enlarging abdomen decreases the efficiency of blood flow back to the heart, which can lead to the development of varicose veins and swollen feet and ankles. Elevating the legs and wearing supportive hosiery will help ease both of these symptoms. Changes in the hair growth cycle may also be associated with pregnancy. Hair volume often increases throughout pregnancy. A few months post-partum, however, this extra hair is shedded in a phenomenon called "telogen effluvium." While this can be quite alarming, there's no cause for worry since the shedding is simply re-adjusting the hair to its pre-pregnancy volume. Pregnancy is an exciting time of physical change and joyful anticipation. Women should maximum a routine to feel and look their best. This includes proper diet and exercise; avoidance of smoking and alcohol; and gentle skin cleansing, moisturization and sun protection for maximum skin health.Total Effects 7x Anti-aging Vitamin Complex with UV Protection is an advanced Age Defying moisturizer formulated with the exclusive VitaNiacin complex that includes UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection and SPF 15. Past Articles | |
