Pregnancy: how to take care of your skin?

Formulated without essential oils, our range has been developed by our dermatologist to safely support you throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discover our selection of products to care for your skin during pregnancy and postpartum.

Is the idea of a "pregnancy glow" medically justified? If so, what could be the causes?

Dr. Sylvie Peres: During pregnancy, there is a significant increase in vascularization and hormones (estrogen, progesterone, beta HCG). As with adolescence, the skin is unpredictable: it can be wonderful or catastrophic! And it can change for the same person from one pregnancy to another. In the best-case scenario, which is what we call the "pregnancy glow," the increase in vascularization and hormones leads to an improvement, a radiant complexion, and refined skin texture. Hair becomes less oily and doesn't fall out (normally about fifty hairs are lost each day and renewed). So there's an increase in hair volume, but it might fall out within 2 months after childbirth, depending on the woman.

For many women, pregnancy is more associated with skin problems (adult acne, eczema, melasma...). What explains these negative effects of pregnancy on the skin?

Dr. Sylvie Peres : The increased blood flow can lead to the appearance of varicose veins, rosacea, and spider angiomas. Most often, this normalizes 6 months after childbirth. Nature is provident, blood volume increases sharply from the beginning of pregnancy, so it is necessary to prevent edema and varicose veins very early by wearing compression stockings that will be kept for some time after childbirth to avoid discomfort due to low blood pressure when standing. The influx of hormones can also lead to hyperpigmentation, acne, dry skin, sometimes itchy skin, eczema can flare up, and stretch marks can appear. Regarding contraception, I recommend stopping - if possible - pills long before conception and favoring the insertion of a copper IUD. This way, masked acne can be revealed and effectively treated before pregnancy.

From your perspective as a doctor, what is the most common situation during pregnancy? Is the skin most often enhanced, weakened, or completely identical to usual?

Dr. Sylvie Peres : I couldn't say, but those who come to see me for consultation are more in the case where the skin is weakened, less beautiful than usual, with acne.

Are there one or more periods of pregnancy during which the skin is more troubled, or conversely, more radiant? If so, why?

Dr. Sylvie Peres : During the first trimester, nausea due to increased HCG can be more or less severe; there's nothing you can do about it! Remember to hydrate well and choose small, healthy meals.

What ritual should be adopted?

Dr. Sylvie Peres : I recommend a minimalist ritual. Choose your products carefully and check the formulas. For relaxation, take a bath, but not too hot; avoid hammam saunas. For hydration, you can add wheat starch and a few drops of organic vegetable oil to the bath (be careful not to slip!).

For cleansing, I recommend a cold-process soap without essential oils, like our Mango & Avocado Soap for face and body. It is also suitable for baby's wash.

To prevent stretch marks and/or stop itching, I recommend nourishing the skin morning and evening with a vegetable oil or a rich cream like a Cerate, such as our Summer Garden Radiance Balm. Massage by stretching the skin from the back and thighs, to prepare it for distension.

If your skin has imperfections, I recommend applying the Mixed Skin Moisturizer morning and evening to skin previously cleansed with soap. I also recommend using a Fruit Acid Peel 1 to 2 times a week to limit the appearance of imperfections. Don't hesitate to adapt your moisturizer according to the evolution of your skin. Finally, apply the Anti-blemish Solution to imperfections: its natural composition offers a complex of flower acids and fruit acids for a retinoid-like effect, sebum regulation, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action, and regulation of the skin microbiota. Compatible during pregnancy, this treatment deeply treats acne, smooths the skin, tightens pores, and limits the occurrence of scars thanks to its powerful natural active ingredients.

For sun protection, prevent melasma (pregnancy mask) with sun protection and a hat, and with our SPF 50+ Sunscreen

And what about diet?

Dr. Sylvie Peres : More than ever, adopt a healthy, balanced, and varied diet following the seasons for an optimal intake of plant and animal proteins, lipids (important for skin and brain). Limit sugar. Consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes (which should be soaked for 24 hours before cooking – this is very important for your microbiota and that of the child). Iron, folate, mineral salts, and vitamin intake must be balanced. I also recommend drinking quality water. I emphasize fresh and organic foods for your health! Practice gentle and adapted exercise, yoga, swimming, relaxation, music.