Darkening of the skin during pregnancy
Changes to your skin during pregnancy
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As your pregnancy develops, you may find that you experience changes to your skin and hair. Some women can develop dark patches on their face and hormonal changes can make your skin a little darker.
You may also develop stretch marks on your body, particularly around your stomach where your skin is stretching to accommodate your growing baby.
Chloasma - dark patches on the face
Some pregnant women develop dark irregular patches on their face most commonly on the upper cheek, nose, lips, and forehead. This is called 'chloasma'. It is also sometimes known as 'melasma' or the 'mask of pregnancy'.
Chloasma is thought to be due to stimulation of pigment-producing cells by female sex hormones so that they produce more melanin pigments (dark coloured pigments) when the skin is exposed to sun. Some women develop these patches when they take oral contraceptives (the pill).
Women with a light brown skin type who are living in regions with intense sun exposure are more likely to develop these patches. The patches usually fade over a period of several months after giving birth, though they may last for several years for some women.
Careful protection of the skin using broad spectrum sunscreens every day during pregnancy and while taking the pill may make it less likely that chloasma will develop. It is necessary to continue to use sunscreen after pregnancy as sun exposure may cause the patches to reappear. Some creams that need to be prescribed by doctors may help to fade the patches.
Skin and hair changes
Hormonal changes taking place in pregnancy will make your nipples and the area around them go darker. Your skin colour may also darken a little, either in patches or all over. Birthmarks, moles and freckles may also darken. Some women develop a dark line down the middle of their stomach, called 'linea nigra'.
These changes will gradually fade after the baby is born, although your nipples may remain a little darker.
If you sunbathe while you are pregnant, you may burn more easily. Protect your skin with a good high-factor sunscreen and don't stay in the sun for a long time.
Hair growth can also increase in pregnancy, and your hair may be greasier. After the baby is born, it may seem as if you are losing a lot of hair but you are simply losing the extra hair.
Stretch marks
Many women develop stretch marks during their pregnancy, usually in the last 3 months.
They usually appear on your stomach or sometimes on your upper thighs or breasts. Stretch marks are not harmful and over time, your skin will shrink and the stretch marks will fade into white-coloured scars.
Find out more on stretch marks.
Sources:
Royal Women's Hospital Victoria (Common concerns in early pregnancy - itching and skin), The Australasian College of Dermatologists (Striae), The Australasian College of Dermatologists (Melasma)Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.
Last reviewed: January 2020
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Related pages
- Common discomforts during pregnancy
- Stretch marks
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Dermatologist Chandler AZ 85224, Mohs Surgery 85225, 85226
Most of the skin changes seen in pregnancy are due to the effects of hormones on various body structures. The effects on the skin may be considered normal and not disease-related. However, these same effects may be viewed as pathologic to the woman who has new skin changes.
Some of these changes are permanent, but others are present only during or for a short time after pregnancy.
Pigment Changes
The most common pigmentation change in pregnancy is called hyperpigmentation, or darkening of the skin. It is believed that higher levels of estrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormone cause this skin darkening. The latter is a hormone that causes the pigment producing cells, or melanocytes, to make more melanin. Areas that were darker prior to pregnancy such as the areolae, nipples, genital skin, armpits, and inner thighs tend to get even darker. Sometimes a dark line, called linea nigra, forms on the abdomen. Other women experience a darkening of facial skin called melasma.
Hair and Nail Changes
Hair changes in pregnancy can vary from too much to too little. Many women notice more, darker hair on the face, arms, and legs. The same women may also notice a thinning of the hair on the scalp.
This condition is known as telogen effluvium and is caused by a shift of these hairs to the telogen, or resting, phase. It is during the telogen phase that hairs are shed. This shedding may last from 1 to 5 months but may not stop until 15 months after delivery. Nail changes in pregnancy include brittleness, groove formation, or a separation of the nail from the end of the nail bed called onycholysis.
Melasma or Chloasma
Melasma or chloasma is a brownish discoloration of the face that occurs most often in women. Men can also develop this problem. The brown color often fades in winter and gets worse in the summer.
What causes it?
Pregnancy (mask of pregnancy) is the most common cause of melasma. Women who are taking oral contraceptives are at risk of developing melasma. Sunlight is a major factor in the development of melasma.
How do I treat it?
A strong sunscreen such as Elta Block, Ombrelle, and Shade Lotion SPF 45, etc.
, should be applied to the face each morning. Hydroquinone 4% cream (available by prescription) applied to the face twice a day (in the morning before applying sun screen and later in the day) is the main treatment for melasma. Retin-A cream applied to the entire face each night before bed has been shown to be an effective treatment for melasma. Dr. Guccione and Anne Carlisle, FNP, can also prescribe a combination of prescription medications that may be effective in treating your melasma. Most importantly, however, avoid intense sunlight! This brings out more brown discoloration. It is your body's natural protection response from the sun.
Pemphigoid gestationis is also known as herpes gestationis, although the latter name is misleading since this condition is not associated with any virus. This is a rare, itchy, autoimmune disease that occurs during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy and around the time of delivery. Pemphigoid gestationis occurs in 1 per 7,000 to 50,000 pregnancies.
It begins with very itchy, red hives or small bumps around the belly button. Within days to weeks, the rash spreads, and the hives and bumps join to form bizarrely shaped circular patches that cover a wide area of skin. The rash can involve the trunk, back, buttocks, forearms, palms, and soles. It usually does not involve the face, scalp, or inside of the mouth. After 2 to 4 weeks of this rash, large, tense blisters form at the edges of the rash or in apparently normal skin.
This condition usually starts during the second or third trimester, although it has been reported in the first trimester and a short time after delivery. The average appearance is at 21 weeks gestation. Spontaneous clearing of the rash may occur later in the pregnancy, but uncomfortable flares occur immediately prior to delivery in 75% to 80% of women. The rash may also recur when menses resumes or with the use of oral contraceptives. With subsequent pregnancies, pemphigoid gestationis usually recurs earlier and may be more severe.
Only 8% of women do not develop pemphigoid gestationis in subsequent pregnancies.
Treatment
A few women with very mild cases of pemphigoid gestationis can be treated with steroid creams and antihistamines. However, the majority of women require oral steroids to control their symptoms. A high dose is usually used to get symptoms under control and then tapered as the rash improves.
Effect on Baby
Because antibodies cross the placenta, the antibodies that cause pemphigoid gestationis can affect the baby. A noticeable rash has been reported in 5% of newborns born to moms with this condition. This newborn rash is transient and resolves on its own without treatment. There is evidence that women with pemphigoid gestationis have an increased risk of premature delivery. Current studies indicate that there is not an increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.
This condition was first described in 1981.
It is believed to be more common than previously thought. One study showed the incidence of this disease to be 1 per 3,000 pregnancies.
Appearance
The rash consists of several small red bumps that may or may not be filled with pus. These bumps are usually on the shoulders, upper back, arms, chest, and abdomen. The condition looks like acne. However, culture of the bumps does not reveal any bacteria. The rash can be very itchy.
Timing
Pruritic folliculitis of pregnancy typically develops in the second half of pregnancy. It resolves spontaneously within 2 to 3 weeks after delivery.
Cause
The cause of pruritic folliculitis of pregnancy is unknown. Some investigators believe it is caused by hormonal changes.
Treatment
Pruritic folliculitis of pregnancy is typically treated like mild acne. Benzoyl peroxide has been used with some success, but antibiotics are not needed.
Oral antihistamines are useful to treat the itching.
Effect on Baby
There are differing reports about the affect of pruritic folliculitis of pregnancy on the baby. One study showed an increase in lower birth-weight babies. However, other studies did not confirm this. This condition does not increase the risk of prematurity or of stillbirth.
Changes in the skin during pregnancy - St. Petersburg State Budgetary Institution of Healthcare "Dermatovenerological Dispensary No. 4"
During pregnancy, the female body is constantly changing.
What physiological skin changes occur during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, under the influence of hormones, the skin around the nipples, in the genital area becomes darker and a dark line (Linea nigra) appears in the middle of the abdomen.
During the period of intrauterine development of the fetus, due to the tension of the skin, lilac and pink stripes (lines), the so-called striae, may appear.
nine0003
Some women develop pigment spots on the face (melasma).
Could these phenomena be temporary? Can they be treated?
Some physiological phenomena may resolve spontaneously after delivery (such as pigmentation around the nipples and a dark line on the abdomen). Others persist, although not so pronounced, for a long time (styria). Age spots can be eliminated with special whitening creams. Unfortunately, creams against the appearance of stretch marks practically do not work. There are various techniques that reduce optically visible stretch marks that can be used after childbirth (laser resurfacing, mesotherapy procedures, plasma lifting procedures). nine0003
During pregnancy, there may be some diseases that are observed only in this physiological state of the woman and usually resolve after childbirth.
polymorphic dermatitis of pregnancy.
This pruritic dermatosis develops according to various sources in 1 out of 300 pregnant women.
The rash usually begins with striae in the abdomen and may spread to other parts of the body.
This condition is not harmful to the fetus and usually resolves completely by 6 weeks postpartum. nine0003
It is extremely rare for this dermatitis to develop after the baby is born, but it resolves completely after 6 weeks.
Bullous pemphigoid of pregnancy - BPB (pregnancy herpes) - a rare autoimmune disease with the formation of blisters on the skin, observed during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. In some sources, this disease is usually described under the term "pregnancy herpes", although it has nothing to do with herpes infection. As a rule, it begins with the appearance of small bubbles in the navel area with further spread to other parts of the body. nine0003
There is no evidence for the development of a serious risk for the newborn, although skin lesions in newborns in the form of a transient urticarial and vesicular rash are noted in 5-10%, which spontaneously disappears within 3 weeks.
These diseases are successfully treated. The doctor selects therapy according to the standards and prescribes drugs with minimal risk to the mother and fetus.
There is also diffuse hair loss during and after pregnancy - Telogen effluvium (telogen effluvium), which usually lasts from 3 to 12 months after childbirth and resolves on its own without any treatment. Such hair loss after the birth of a child is normal and according to the European Association of Dermatology, treatment with special shampoos or other preparations during this period is not effective. nine0003
It is very important to tell the doctor about any changes in the skin during pregnancy and not to self-medicate, because in addition to the usual and expected changes in the skin during pregnancy, a rash can be a manifestation of dangerous diseases for mother and child (syphilis, rubella, chickenpox , genital, herpes simplex and herpes zoster).
Khramtsova Yu.S.
Darkening of the skin during pregnancy: myths, causes, treatments
Darkening of the skin during pregnancy:
myths, causes, treatments
One of our pregnant women friends was shocked when she suddenly noticed dark spots on her skin! Well, despite all the hype about the famous pregnancy glow, she's not expected to see this.
If you are pregnant and encounter the same problem, you should know that this condition is usually caused by fluctuations in hormone levels. Fortunately, it can be treated with safe options and natural remedies. We'll tell you why prevention is half the cure in this case. nine0003
Bleaching rate
Melasma, also known like chloasma gravidarum, quite common during pregnancy. it can occur in 50.8% of pregnant women according to a study conducted in India. It is also referred to as the pregnancy mask in informal terms. Melasma can also recur with a second or more pregnancies.
Although there is no single causes of melasma, there may be several causes of it occurrence. One of them is higher levels of hormones, which produced during pregnancy. These include estrogen, progesterone and those that increase the production of melanin. nine0003
Melasma is a condition in which cells known as melanocytes (cells that produce melanin) activated by hormones. The amount of melanin produced increases which makes the skin darker. It is the pigment that gives color to our skin, eyes and hair. Melasma may be due to hereditary causes. If your mother or aunt had melasma, you are more likely to get it.
If you have had or hyperthyroidism remains, you may develop melasma. nine0003
If you are exposed to exposed to the ultraviolet rays of the sun for long hours, you will also you can get this state.
Beginning of discoloration
In most cases skin discoloration due to melasma appears in the first and second trimesters pregnancy. However, it can start at any time during pregnancy. Timely precautions can avoid excessive darkening.
Note: Single a symptom that indicates melasma is darkening of the skin during pregnancy. If your dark spots show other symptoms such as itching, tenderness or pain when touched, you should see a dermatologist.
Darkening areas
Melasma usually occurs around the upper lip, on the chin, forehead and around the nose symmetrically. it appears as spots of brown or gray-brown skin, like a mask. It may occur even in places where the skin rubs against each other - armpits and inner thigh surface. nine0003
These stains can also appear along the jaw line and on the hands - in places exposed to sunlight. Already pigmented areas of your skin - scars, freckles, the nipples and genital area may even become darker than normal during pregnancy.
Did you know?
- Melasma occurs in all skin types, but is more common in women with darker skin. nine0133 Women, who come from North Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, India and other parts of Asia and the Mediterranean are more likely to suffer from melasma than their European Caucasian counterparts.
- Recent studies show that melasma can be chronic and last for many years in most patients.
- Yours the skin is exposed to the ultraviolet rays of the sun, even if you sit near a window or in a car.
nine0134 - Melasma can even be caused by hormone replacement therapy or taking contraceptive pills.
Treatment Options
1. Search professional methods
Chemical treatment substances are not considered safe during pregnancy and lactation. Your dermatologist may prescribe a topical ointment containing azelaic acid, or a chemical peel containing glycolic acid, which is considered safe. nine0003
2. Apply high SPF sunscreen
sunscreen even when you are indoors. Choose a product with higher SPF, 30-50 or more. Look for ingredients that are safe for pregnant women, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are usually present in physical sunscreens. The product must be wide spectrum - protection from UVA and UVB rays. nine0003
3. Try natural remedies
There are several natural ingredients you can use to lighten patches of darkened skin caused by melasma.
Some of them may be used on their own, while others must be mixed in order to form a mask with various ingredients. All this is absolutely safe for use during pregnancy.
A. Lemon juice
Lemon juice has astringent properties as it is acidic in nature and naturally brightens the skin. Squeeze the juice from the lemons, dilute with a little water and apply to pigmented areas. Wash off after a while.
B. Turmeric
milk and turmeric. The curcumin present in turmeric can lighten pigmented areas. Turmeric can also be mixed with rose water, coconut milk and lemon juice to make a brightening mask. nine0003
C. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is mild and an effective way to lighten the skin. All you have to do is cut stem and extract the gel from the plant and directly apply it to the browning. Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water.
D. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is An excellent natural exfoliator. Apply an oatmeal mask mixed with honey and milk. Leave until completely dry and then rinse off. Removes dark brown spots and dead cells for a healthier looking skin bright. nine0003
E. Onion juice
In onion juice compounds that contain sulfur are present, which may aid in the removal darkened skin. They also provide food. Make a mixture of onion juice and organic apple cider vinegar and apply to the affected area.
F. Almond
Whether eaten or applied to the skin, almonds are very beneficial for skin health. It contains proteins and vitamin E, which can reduce the signs of melasma. Make a paste out of almonds, milk and honey and apply as a face mask. Wash off after drying. nine0003
G. Cucumber
amount of water and ideal for lightening pigmentation.
It may moisturize the skin, brightening dark areas.
H. Sandalwood
Sandalwood effective for lightening skin that has darkened due to melasma during pregnancy. You can use it in powder or oil form. mix bag with sandalwood powder and water for application. The mixture cools skin, reduces acne and irritation. nine0003
I. Papaya
Enzyme present in papaya, known as papain, can act as a natural exfoliator. Brightens skin and removes dead skin cells for a brighter complexion and brighter.
D. Potato
Potato contains azelaic acid, which is known to help reduce pigmentation, caused during pregnancy. All you have to do is grate potatoes and apply the raw juice to the darkened areas. Rinse after dry warm water. nine0003
K use to reduce skin darkening due to pregnancy. Soy contains fatty acids, isoflavones, and trypsin blockers, which may help reduce darkening.
Mix soy milk with tomato pulp and lemon juice. Apply to darkened areas, rinse when dry.
L. Orange Peel
Studies show that orange peel powder can be used to lighten skin. mix dried orange peel powder with honey and milk. Apply to darkened areas and rinse when dry.
M. Curd / Yoghurt
acids such as lactic acid, citric acid and glycolic acid, which can help reduce pigmentation in the skin. Make a mask with cottage cheese honey and oatmeal powder and apply to darkened areas. Wash off when dry. nine0003
Prophylactic options
1. Stay away from sun
If you are pregnant or already had melasma, which is now absent due to treatment, it is extremely important avoid the sun. This is because the state may return due to exposure UV rays. Wear a hat, sunglasses and a scarf to cover your face and neck when you are outside during the day.
