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How does your skin change when pregnant

Radhika Hitkari | Jan 05, 2026, 17:10 IST
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Skin during pregnancy
Skin during pregnancy
Image credit : freepik
In this article, we will discuss the common skin changes that occur during pregnancy and how they can affect a woman’s confidence. We will also highlight safe and effective skincare tips to help manage concerns such as stretch marks, pigmentation, acne, and dryness, ensuring healthy, comfortable, and glowing skin throughout pregnancy.
Pregnancy can be one of the most beautiful chapters in a woman's life, but going through certain skin problems can take a toll on the overall confidence of a person. It is essential to know that these conditions are common and do not require constant worrying, as they usually subside on their own as the pregnancy progresses. During pregnancy, a woman's body goes through a lot of changes, which are usually irreversible and cause discomfort. However, through certain remedies, these conditions can be controlled to avoid any permanent damage to the skin.


Common skin changes during pregnancy


pregnant woman
pregnant woman
Image credit : freepik


Stretch marks: During pregnancy, a lot of women notice stretch marks on their belly as it grows and becomes larger during pregnancy. Stretch marks can be one of the common skin conditions that can be treated with the right medication or skincare.

Hyperpigmentation: This is another common skin condition that women can have during pregnancy, where dark patches appear on the skin as more melanin is produced.

Breakouts: Various skin conditions like acne and pimples can increase in the skin during pregnancy, which leads to breakouts due to the increase in the secretion of oil in the skin.

Varicose Veins: During pregnancy, an increase in the flow of blood and hormonal changes in the body can lead to the formation of spider veins or varicose veins, which are twisted and enlarged veins mainly in the legs.

Skin tags: These are small and loose growths of skin that can happen in pregnancy. It is usually formed under the arms or breasts, and it usually falls off the skin on its own after the pregnancy is complete.

Pregnancy glow: During pregnancy, there is an increase in the circulation of blood in the body, so the skin becomes brighter and more radiant in appearance, which is called the pregnancy glow.


How Pregnant women should take care of their skin


Use a non-comedogenic cleanser: This can prevent the skin from becoming dry and also reduce the level of breakout in the skin.

Use gentle moisturizers: Use cocoa or shea butter moisturizer, which can help in treating stretch marks on the belly and provide some relief to the skin.

Glycolic acid: Use skincare products that have glycolic acid, as they are usually considered safe to use during pregnancy and help maintain the skin.

Mineral sunscreen: Make sure to use a mineral-based sunscreen to keep the skin protected from the sun's harmful rays and prevent sunburn.

Avoid harsh chemicals: Use products that are gentle and safe for the skin to avoid any type of allergic reaction and keep the skin healthy and glowing.

Discover expert advice and the latest updates in Skin Care, Hair Care, Wellness, Dermatology, and more at Stay Young, a guide to lasting beauty and holistic health.

Frequently Asked Questions
  1. Can your face tell if you are pregnant?
    When you are pregnant, blood volume nearly doubles and progesterone levels increase, leading to increased blood flow to the face. This results in rosier cheeks and a radiant appearance often referred to as pregnancy glow.
  2. In which month does pregnancy glow start?
    Pregnancy glow typically starts in the second trimester (around months 4-6), as increased hormones and blood flow make skin look rosy and radiant, but not everyone experiences it, and some get acne instead.
  3. What is the golden rule for every pregnant woman?
    The golden rule for every pregnant woman is never to miss meals and ensure she gets all the necessary nutrients for the baby.
  4. Where do pregnancy pimples appear?
    Pregnancy acne commonly appears on the face, especially the chin, jawline, cheeks, neck, chest, and back, areas that are rich in oil glands, and acne appears as deep, painful, red bumps due to hormonal shifts and increasing oil production.

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