During one of my regular visits to the hair salon, I saw one of the hairstylists walk in. After speaking with her I noticed she had a beautiful glow and glimmer all over her face. I immediately knew she was pregnant. There are some women that experience pregnancy glow and have radiant skin, fuller lips, thicker and shinier hair, and stronger nails. Unfortunately not every soon-to-be mommy will experience that “looking and walking on sunshine” feeling. Pregnancy changes your body in numerous ways, especially skin. This skin is the body’s largest organ.
Regrettably with fluctuation in pregnancy hormones, you will most likely experience acne and other skin changes. Dr. Ellen Marmur, chief of the dermatologic and cosmetic surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, stated on WebMD, “Hands-down, acne is the number one skin problem to hit women during pregnancy– but there are also a variety of bumps and rashes and discoloration that occur as well, most of them due to hormone activity.” We have not even mentioned stretch marks, dark spots, spider veins and varicose veins, itchy skin, drier skin, and a dark line on the tummy! Fortunately, we have got you covered. We researched seven natural ways to keep your skin and your whole body moisturized and healthy while pregnant. In fact, some of these beauty tips are beneficial even if you are not expecting! Are you ready to start glowing and go from blemishes to beauty?
Hydrate
If there is one beauty tip that everyone knows, it is increasing your water intake. You have to drink plenty of water. It is essential that your skin is hydrated. Additionally, The Bump states, “Good old H2O prevents headaches, constipation, bladder infection, hemorrhoids, and it is good for your baby’s health too.” Drink at least 2 L of water a day. You can also have foods with high water content such as veggies, fruits, and nuts. Photo Credit: Brit + Co
Cleanse Skin Well
Start with a gentle cleanser and a clean soft facecloth. It is important that you wash your face twice a day to keep it fresh and oil-free. Cleansing the skin helps maintain clear pores and removes dirt and makeup (We recommend chemical-free products)
Photo Credit: Medical News Today
Healthy Diet
We recommend that you should have a healthy diet and follow a diet chart advised by your doctor (Ha Ha Ha, we know it is going to be difficult with your cravings). Also, on the website called Ann Marie, the writer recommends eating leafy greens, asparagus, broccoli, citrus, peas, avocado, seeds, and nuts into your pregnancy diet to promote an even skin tone. Not only is eating healthy during your pregnancy great for your skin but most importantly it can allow you to have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby! I recommend eating organic because it is healthier for you and the baby.
Photo Credit: Faring-Well
Exercise
We know for some pregnant women that the only exercise they want to do is walk to the kitchen to satisfy their cravings, however, gentle exercise increases circulation and blood flow, bringing nutrients to your skin.
Photo Credit: FitMamma
Natural Products for Stretch Marks
While we know a lot of new moms complain about stretch marks, they are generally hereditary or from rapid weight gain. To minimize your stretch marks, we recommend using natural products, such as sweet almond oil, lavender oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, and rosehip oil.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Protect Yourself When Exposed to Sunlight
During pregnancy, you are sensitive to the sun and can burn much more easily. The best form of sun protection is prevention, we suggest staying inside as much as possible or in the shade. In case you want to have a beach day we encourage you to wear a floppy hat, big sunglasses, and sunscreen that contains zinc oxide.
Photo Credit: Julian Wainwright
Relax/Sleep
Before the midnight feedings, one of the most important points to remember is to relax and get “beauty sleep”. Relax your body and include breaks in your schedule. Also, plenty of rest and relaxation will give you more energy, will prevent dark circles and will have you looking and feeling more refreshed. Two ways we recommend relaxing is having a prenatal massage or facial. (You will thank me later. Relax, Relate, Release)
Photo Credit: UnComo
*The information on the blog is designed for educational purposes only. Please note that it is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice.
