Effects of Pregnancy on South Asian Skin

Pigmentation Stretch-marks Pregnancy-glow Pimples Acne Skin-tags

Change in pigmentation due to Hormonal Changes

During pregnancy, hormonal changes cause temporary increase in the production of melanin. This effects Indian women more than the Caucasian women.

1. Melasma

Melasma shows up as blotches around lips, nose, cheeks and along the jaw. In India, the melasma is more prominent due to exposure to UV radiation in the sunlight.

2. Linea Nigra

Near the 20th week of gestation, the line (linea alba) from the belly button to pelvic bone gets dominantly dark.

3. Darker areas get darker

The dark areas get darker such as moles, nipples, areolas, genitals, under-arm or inner thighs.

About three months after the delivery, the change in pigmentation will start to disappears. With each pregnancy, there is more dominant increase in the melanin production. In some cases, you may not return to your pre-pregnancy color. You may consider bleaching creams with hydroquinone (4%), and Tretinoin, Retin-A.

Stretch Marks

Stretch marks appear on your abdomen, and breasts for apparent over stretching of the skin.

With exercise, these marks will fade away in time.

Pregnancy Glow, Pimples, Acne

During pregnancy, you produce more blood. This increased blood volume, and increased secretion by oil glands due to hormones, gives a shiny glow to your face. The increased secretion by oil glands can cause pimple to break out and acne. Wash your face every morning and every night to remove oil.

Skin Tags

These are small small tiny growths under arms are breasts. These growths disappear in a few months after delivery.

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