Pregnancy and postpartum bring some of the biggest transformations your body will ever go through, including your skin. One moment, you’re glowing; the next, you’re battling dryness, breakouts, or dark patches that won’t budge. Sound familiar?
You’re not alone. Up to 90% of women experience skin changes during pregnancy and postpartum, thanks to the hormonal rollercoaster your body is riding. The good news? With the right skincare approach, you can soothe dryness, calm breakouts, and even out your skin tone, safely and effectively.
Let’s dive into what’s happening to your skin, and how to restore that pregnancy glow even after baby arrives.
1. WHY DO PREGNANCY AND POSTPARTUM CHANGE YOUR SKIN SO MUCH?
Hormones. Fatigue. Stress. Dehydration. Add in the effects of birth, breastfeeding, and months of disrupted sleep, and your skin feels it all.
- During pregnancy, Estrogen and Progesterone surge, which can increase oil production (hello, breakouts) or trigger dryness and irritation. Your body is also storing more water, but your skin might still struggle to stay hydrated.
- Postpartum, Estrogen drops sharply, which can lead to dryness, sensitivity, and even new breakouts, especially as your skin adjusts to life after pregnancy. And if you’re breastfeeding, dehydration can make dry skin even worse.
- Hyperpigmentation (Melasma), aka the “pregnancy mask,” can linger postpartum, sometimes for months or even years.
2. HOW TO SOOTHE AND HYDRATE DRY, ITCHY SKIN.
+ Choose a gentle cleanser – Pregnancy and postpartum skin are extra sensitive, so swap foaming cleansers for a hydrating, fragrance-free formula that won’t strip your skin.
+ Lock in moisture with oils & butters – Body oils keep your skin soft and comfortable, whether you’re soothing a growing bump or postpartum dryness. Look for shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and natural plant oils for deep hydration.
+ Hydrate from the inside – Pregnancy and postpartum deplete hydration levels. Drinking more water than you think you need and adding healthy fats (avocado, nuts, salmon) to your diet can support your skin’s moisture barrier.
Postpartum Recovery Tip: If you’re dealing with dry, cracked nipples from breastfeeding, our lanolin-free nipple butter can work wonders for both your skin and your baby’s comfort.
3. HOW TO HANDLE PREGNANCY AND POSTPARTUM ACNE (WITHOUT HARSH INGREDIENTS).
Pregnancy and postpartum acne can feel like a cruel joke—just when you thought your breakouts were behind you!
+ Skip harsh acne treatments – Many traditional acne treatments (like retinoids and strong acids) aren’t pregnancy- or breastfeeding-safe. Instead, opt for azelaic acid, witch hazel, and enzyme exfoliants to unclog pores without irritation.
+ Exfoliate gently – A mild pregnancy-safe scrub can help remove dead skin cells, reduce congestion, and brighten dull skin.
+ Keep it simple – Postpartum skin can be extra sensitive and reactive. Stick to non-comedogenic, fragrance-free products to avoid further irritation.
+ Watch for postpartum breakouts – Some women experience a second wave of acne postpartum as hormones regulate, especially around the jawline and chin. Be patient—it’s temporary!
4. HOW TO PREVENT AND FADE HYPERPIGMENTATION (MELASMA) AFTER PREGNANCY.
Melasma (aka “the pregnancy mask”) is caused by hormonal fluctuations increasing melanin production. If you noticed dark patches on your forehead, cheeks, or upper lip during pregnancy, they may stick around postpartum—but there are ways to fade them!
+ Sunscreen is your best friend – Mineral SPF 30+ is essential during and after pregnancy to prevent hyperpigmentation from getting darker.
+ Incorporate brightening ingredients – Vitamin C, Niacin Amide, and Licorice Root are gentle, pregnancy-safe ways to help even out skin tone.
+ Be patient – Melasma can take months (sometimes years) to fade postpartum. Consistency is key!
Pregnancy & postpartum skin changes are normal. But you can take control.
Your skin is constantly evolving through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond—but with the right care, you can keep it balanced, hydrated, and glowing through every stage.
Looking for pregnancy & postpartum-safe skincare? Explore our collection of nourishing, naturally derived products designed to support your skin every step of the way.