While it is true that some women have that elusive pregnancy glow, for most of us, however, the opposite could be closer to home. This is because all the extra hormonal activity that contribute to luscious hair and rosy cheeks can also have the opposite effect, causing a variety of pregnancy skin problems. You may also find that at least some of the existing skincare products you relied on to keep your skin glowing before pregnancy are unsafe to use after a baby is on board.

Acne

Don’t be surprised to see a zit when you’re pregnant, especially around your mouth and chin. If you don’t treat it right away, it will continue until you deliver, and sometimes even after the baby is born.

Some over-the-counter creams can help, but make sure they do not contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or any of the retinols. These ingredients are not safe to use during pregnancy. You can look for topical products that are sulphur-based, as well as those containing glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acids. You could also consider getting and at-home microdermabrasion treatment.

Switching your foundation to one for oily skin, or using loose powder mineral makeup may also help. Both have oil-blotting properties and won’t irritate skin with acne. If you are looking for a non-oily skincare range that is still moisturising enough, I recommend Orbis.

Pigmentation

When I was pregnant with Lauren, I had no idea that being pregnant makes your skin more vulnerable under the sun. As a result, I developed many ‘freckles’ on my nose and cheekbones. These are more accurately called melasma, also known as chloasma or “pregnancy mask” – patches of dark, pigmented skin that appear on the face. Apparently, women with darker complexions and dark hair are at greatest risk.

Read about the procedure I went through to reduce melasma after pregnancy

But regardless of your complexion, other areas of darker skin can also develop on or around your neck, bosom, nipples and between your thighs. You will also notice linea nigra or ‘line of pregnancy’ — a darkened area of pigmentation that runs down the center of the belly. This line will disappear soon after the birth your baby.

To avoid pregnancy pigmentation problems, the best course of action is staying out of the sun and wear sunscreen every day. It should say “broad-spectrum” on the label, meaning it protects against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. Also, it should be a physical sunscreen and be above SPF 30. Limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. While it’s best to avoid traditional skin-lightening ingredients such as hydroquinone, you can safely use azelaic acid, which is good for pigment, as well as any topical vitamin C product, which helps suppress pigment naturally.

Make-up

If all else fails, you can safely cover pregnancy mask with a high-pigment concealer or foundation. For best results, choose the colour closest to your complexion and resist the urge to go lighter. Always use a good moisturiser before putting on your concealer. This will help the concealer to glides on smoother and give an even coverage over a large area. A bit of blush on the apple of your cheeks and you’re all set!

I would love to hear what you do to look better during this period. Every comment is welcome!