Oily Skin & Acne Breakouts During Pregnancy
Due to the increase in progesterone levels during pregnancy, oil (sebum) production can often cause acne breakouts. Sometimes a shiny oily appearance could also be noticeable on the skin surface.
Our first thoughts are to always make use of products which “dry” out the oil, but this is a HUGE MISTAKE MAMAS, as the skin then starts to produce more oil…
You need oil to control oil!
First & foremost is to use a cleanser which does not strip the outer surface of the skin, this outer layer is known as our Acid Mantle, which is a layer that acts like a raincoat to protect our skin form the harmful environment.
When products are used that strip this acid mantle continually that is when we have the invasion of the environment and several other conditions that affect the skin. A cleanser should be gentle but effectively dissolving excess oil, dirt and grime on the skin.
Secondly is to make use of a toner which can help with the excess oil production, larger pores and will then in turn help with breakouts. Thirdly is a good moisturizer which will help control the excess oil production and help keep the skin
moisturized.
In-Salon treatments are of utmost importance, due to the professional exfoliation and masking process which the skin care therapist will perform, a monthly treatment is recommended.
Dehydration
Dehydration is very common on the skin surface and there are several factors which cause dehydration.
The most successful way to treat dehydration is by using Hyaluronic acid, which is known as the fountain of youth.
This is an ingredient which is found in our skin and by using it topically, it is “topping up” the level of hyaluronic acid in the body.
Dehydration can also be a contributing factor to breakouts and acne.
Introducing a hyaluronic serum is the best way to treat dehydration.
In-Salon treatments are also very beneficial for treating this condition, by having frequent exfoliation and mask treatments.
Pigmentation During Pregnancy
Pigmentation, or dark marks that form on the skin during pregnancy are a result of the hormonal fluctuations in the body. Either new marks are formed, or existing marks appear darker and more prominent.
In my experience and my belief in treating pigmentation, is to treat cautiously during the pregnancy and then wait until 6-12 months post pregnancy and then do a program specifically to treat the pigmentation.
Reason for this is, is that these newly formed areas could just lighten or disappear after baby is born and to do unnecessary treatments is not advisable. My take on pigmentation is to “whisper” to pigmentation, treat it with respect and treat slowly.
The use of AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) is advisable and well as the use of Vit C. Vit C is an antioxidant and is also anti-ageing, so it is very beneficial for pigmentation. And of course, most importantly is the use of SPF daily. Very important to make use of a chemical block, which protect the DNA of your cell and not a physical block which causes the white powder look on the skin.
A good home routine and In-Salon routine is very important to follow and try preventing too many peeling treatments and stripping treatments on the skin.
Micro needling is also very beneficial, especially with a Nano needle, which disrupts the epidermal cells and help the penetration of active ingredients.
Using a home care product that has an inhibitor in it is very important, as this helps prevent further pigmentation from forming.
A few ingredients which help inhibit pigmentation are liquorice extract, peony flower and VitC.
Stretchmark’s and firming
Stretchmark’s are formed due to the tearing of the deep tissue, so therefore it’s very important to keep the skin soft and supple before falling pregnant and keeping the skin moisturized during the pregnancy.
Your product of choice must be pregnancy safe.
