Common Skin Changes During Pregnancy — What to Expect and How to Care for Your Skin

Pregnancy is a time of incredible transformation—and your skin is no exception. Hormonal shifts can lead to a variety of skin, hair, and nail changes that may surprise you. As a board-certified OB/GYN and a mom, I’ve seen firsthand how these changes can affect your confidence and comfort.

Let’s break down the most common pregnancy skin changes and how to manage them safely and effectively.

1. Melasma and Dark Spots

During pregnancy, increased melanin production can lead to melasma, also known as the “mask of pregnancy”—a brownish pigmentation commonly found on the face. You may also notice dark spots on your breasts, nipples, or inner thighs.

How to manage:

• Apply broad-spectrum SPF daily—even when indoors.

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat for added sun protection.
  

2. Linea Nigra

This is a dark vertical line that appears on your belly, typically from your belly button down. This pregnancy trademark typically fades postpartum.

3. Stretch Marks

Stretch marks (striae gravidarum) appear as reddish lines often show up on the belly, hips, breasts, and thighs due to rapid skin stretching.

Tips for support:

• Use a deeply hydrating moisturizer or belly butter to maintain elasticity.

• While you can't completely prevent stretch marks, regular hydration and gentle massage may help reduce severity.

4. Pregnancy Acne

Hormones can trigger or worsen acne. Since some acne products are unsafe during pregnancy, it’s important to stick with OB-approved skincare.

Pregnancy-safe acne treatments:

• Benzoyl peroxide (up to 5%)

• Azelaic acid

• Salicylic acid (topical, in limited use)

• Glycolic acid

Avoid: Retinoids, isotretinoin, and oral tetracyclines.

Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser, avoid picking at blemishes, and choose oil-free cosmetics.

5. Spider Veins

Increased blood flow can cause tiny red veins (spider angiomas) to appear on your face, neck, or arms. These usually fade after delivery.

6. Varicose Veins & Hemorrhoids

The growing uterus and added pressure can cause varicose veins, especially in the legs, vulva, or rectum (as hemorrhoids).

Preventative care tips:

• Elevate your feet when resting.

• Wear compression stockings.

• Avoid prolonged standing or crossing your legs.

• Stay hydrated and eat fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation.

7. Hair and Nail Changes

Your hair may grow thicker—or show up in unexpected places like your face or abdomen. Nails may grow faster but feel more brittle.

Postpartum hair loss is common due to hormonal shifts and typically resolves within 3–6 months.

Pregnancy Skincare Tips from a Doctor

To support your skin through each trimester, look for clean, non-toxic products that are OB/GYN-approved. At Beauty & the Babe, we curate pregnancy-safe skincare and wellness boxes so you can focus on your glow—not your ingredient list.

Final Thoughts

Understanding and preparing for these common pregnancy skin changes helps you feel more in control during this transformative time. If you have specific concerns or persistent symptoms, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Pregnancy and skin care. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/pregnancy-skin-care 

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (n.d.). Skin conditions during pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy