Dry Skin During Pregnancy: What Are My Options?

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause many skin changes. You may experience a pregnancy glow due to increased blood production, but you also may experience issues like acne and dry skin. During pregnancy, dry skin is especially common on the stomach, which gets stretched out and loses elasticity as the months go by.

Skin care during pregnancy will naturally differ from your regular skin care routine. Your skin will be extra sensitive, so any lotions and creams you normally use may cause irritation. Pregnant women often benefit from opting for more natural products and making small changes to their lifestyle.

If you are coping with dry skin during pregnancy, we will provide some tips below to help you find relief.

How pregnancy causes dry skin

Once you find out you're pregnant, you start to think about all the ways your body will change. You may not be thinking about your skin, but it's one of the first places you'll notice a change.

One of the areas that is significantly affected is your skin, which becomes more sensitive during pregnancy. You may also develop a skin condition called melasma. This causes dark patches to appear on your face. The good news is that most skin problems are temporary and can be treated easily.

One of the main reasons why skin becomes dry during pregnancy is due to the increased levels of hormones in the body. These hormones can have an effect on the sebum (oil) production in the skin, which can lead to dryness. 

The other reason is that your blood volume increases and there is more fluid in the skin that can be drawn out, leading to dehydration and dryness. The last reason is that your stomach stretches and grows to accommodate your baby, the skin can become stretched thin and lose its elasticity, making it more susceptible to dryness.

If your skin is excessively dry and cracked, you may have a condition called eczema. This is more common during pregnancy and can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription creams. If you are concerned about your skin, speak to your doctor or midwife.

Breakdown of causes

Hormones: One of the main reasons why skin becomes dry during pregnancy is due to the increased levels of hormones in the body. These hormones can have an effect on the sebum (oil) production in the skin, which can cause dryness.

Lack of Sleep: When you're not getting enough rest, your body isn't able to repair and regenerate itself as efficiently, which can lead to dry skin.

Blood Volume: As your blood volume increases, there is more fluid in the skin that can be drawn out, leading to dehydration.

Stretching of the Skin: As your stomach stretches and grows to accommodate your baby, the skin can become stretched thin and lose its elasticity, making it more susceptible to dryness.

Stress: The hormonal changes and lack of sleep that come with pregnancy can lead to stress, which can also contribute to dry skin.

Avoidable problem

Avoiding hot showers, using a mild soap or cleanser, applying a moisturizer, and drinking plenty of water can help to combat dry skin. If your skin is excessively dry, you may have a condition called eczema which can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription creams. 

Pregnancy can cause a number of changes in the skin and hair, including dryness. To keep your skin healthy, try the following:

• Avoid hot showers and baths, as they strip your skin of its natural oils. Go for lukewarm water instead.
• Use a mild, unscented soap or cleanser. Harsh chemicals can further dry out your skin.
• Apply a moisturizer immediately after showering or bathing while your skin is still damp. This will help lock in moisture. Look for products that contain ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid and shea butter.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated.
• Use a humidifier in your home, especially during the winter months when indoor air is more dry.

To help combat dry skin during pregnancy, it is important to moisturize regularly. Look for a lotion, cream, or oil that is specifically designed for pregnant women, as these will often contain ingredients that are safe for use during pregnancy. Apply the lotion, cream, or oil to your skin after bathing, and throughout the day as needed.

Moisturize Regularly

Regular moisturizing can treat and prevent dry skin during pregnancy, but you have to be very vigilant about what products you use. Anything with fragrances or chemicals could irritate your skin. It can also potentially affect the health of your baby as chemicals can be absorbed through the skin.

There are many ingredients you can pick up at the grocery store that can help treat dry skin during pregnancy. Natural oils like olive oil and coconut oil are full of antioxidants, which is good for your skin. Many women find a mixture of one part apple cider vinegar to two parts water works well as an alternative to hand soap during pregnancy.

Keep in mind that even natural treatments can irritate your skin or exacerbate existing skin problems. Both coconut oil and olive oil – especially when used in large amounts – can cause acne breakouts and can also be greasy and unpleasant. Apple cider vinegar can sometimes cause itching, redness, and irritation even when properly diluted.

If you are looking for a natural treatment with no risk of side effects, we recommend Delfina Dry Skin Oil. Delfina penetrates the skin’s outer layers to stimulate hydration from within, treating the root causes of dry, itchy skin. Delfina is also a simple spray-on oil that will not leave your skin feeling greasy.

Delfina penetrates the skin’s layers to stimulate hydration from within, treating the root causes o dry, itchy skin. Delfina is also a simple spray-on oil that will not leave your skin feeling greasy.

Learn more about how Delfina works here and read Delfina success stories here.

Make Lifestyle Changes

Your lifestyle in general can affect your skin’s health. You are probably already making lifestyle changes if you are pregnant, but there are some specific alterations you can make to your routine that may help with dry skin.

Small dietary changes can sometimes be beneficial to skin health. Eating a diet rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can help your skin. Try incorporating foods like nuts, eggs, seeds, fatty fish, olive oil, and whole eggs into your diet.

Drink plenty of water. If you are hydrated, your skin will be as well. Carry a water bottle with you throughout the day and take sips periodically. It can also help to stock your fridge with flavored seltzer water. If your water is more enjoyable, you’ll be more likely to drink it.

Avoid rough fabrics throughout your pregnancy like wool and denim. Stick to soft, breathable fabrics and loose-fitting clothing.

When showering or bathing, use lukewarm water instead of hot water. Extreme temperatures of any kind can worsen dry skin and related skin conditions. While a hot bath or shower may be soothing, it could be potentially damaging to your skin.

Try A Weekly Milk Bath

On the subject of baths, many women find weekly milk baths help soothe dry skin as long as you use lukewarm water.

Mix two cups of powdered milk, half a cup of cornstarch, and half a cup of baking soda. Fill your tub and then pour the mixture in. Soak for no more than 10 minutes. Any longer could make dry skin worse.

Make sure to moisturize afterwards with Delfina Dry Skin Oil.

Dry Skin During Pregnancy: The Bottom Line

Dry skin is common during pregnancy, but it can usually be managed with home remedies and lifestyle changes. However, you do have to be extra careful during pregnancy about any changes to your daily routine. It is a good idea to consult with your OBG-YN about skin care during pregnancy to ensure you are adopting a regimen safe for you and your baby.

Delfina Dry Skin Oil remains one of the safest methods on the market to treat dry skin, including dry skin during pregnancy. Created by a physician, Delfina is safe, effective, and made from natural ingredients. Not only can Delfina treat dry skin during pregnancy, it can help treat ongoing dry skin problems and conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

We understand how important it is to find a dry skin treatment that works for you. If you have questions about Delfina or anything else, do not hesitate to reach out and ask.