Pregnancy and postpartum are wonderful and transformative periods in a woman's life. As the body prepares to bring new life into the world, it experiences a series of remarkable changes, and one aspect often overlooked is skin care. Skin during pregnancy and postpartum deserves special attention, as it can be affected by a variety of hormonal and physical factors. In this article, we will review the importance of skin care during this beautiful period, and how to deal with annoying stretch marks during pregnancy, dry nipples, and common hair loss.
Stretch marks in pregnancy and skin changes, a classic during this stage
First, we need to know that stretch marks are mainly formed due to two factors: the rapid stretching of the skin as the uterus expands to accommodate the growing baby and hormonal changes that affect the elasticity of the skin.
As the skin stretches, collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis can break, leaving visible scars in the form of stretch marks. Hormones like cortisol can also weaken the skin's structure, making it more prone to stretch marks. Genetic predisposition, weight gain during pregnancy, and skin hydration also play an important role in their development. It is common for stretch marks to appear in areas such as the abdomen, breasts, and thighs.
Don't worry, Maminat can help. Our Maminat Anti-Stretch Mark Oil for pregnant women is the ideal complement to eliminate, reduce, and prevent stretch marks during pregnancy and postpartum. It is entirely made with rosehip oil, wheat germ oil, and sweet almond oil, natural components that deeply nourish and improve skin elasticity.
Hyperpigmentation is also common during pregnancy. First, don't be alarmed, because everything described below weakens or disappears completely after childbirth. Most women, especially those with dark skin and hair, notice a generalized increase in pigmentation (darkening) during pregnancy, around the third month, in the nipples, areolas, vulva, and the midline of the abdomen extending from the mons pubis to the navel. Around the fifth month, an enlargement of the color of the mammary areola appears, which has been called the secondary areola. The cause is attributed to maternal estrogens and progestins at the beginning of gestation and placental activity for the rest of the time. It is also possible that melanocyte-stimulating hormone is increased. Melanocytes are the cells responsible for melanin synthesis in melanosomes.
Melasma, on the other hand, also corresponds to melanin hyperpigmentation that manifests as irregular, symmetrical, well-defined spots distributed on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip, and chin. Its intensity is not necessarily proportional to the intensity of your skin's general pigmentation.
And what can we do about it? The most important thing for successful hyperpigmentation treatment is photoprotection, avoiding direct sun and using UVA and UVB sunscreens, both during and after treatment. Makeup (preferably natural) also serves a dual function to cover spots and protect the skin. In any case, it is important to consult a dermatologist.
Maminat's SPF 50 sunscreen fully protects you from the sun with the best natural physical filters. It is a high protection ideal for all areas of your body and face.
And when it comes to makeup, with the Be Natural Pack you can highlight the magic of your beauty and your skin will continue to breathe, while protecting it. Our fluid foundation comes with physical SPF 20 sunscreen.
During breastfeeding, stop dry nipples!
The expression of skin dryness postpartum commonly manifests as dry nipples during breastfeeding, where they are much more sensitive due to constant infant sucking, which can cause friction and pressure on the nipples, leading to dryness and irritation.
Hormonal fluctuations and changes during pregnancy and the postpartum period can also affect skin elasticity, making nipples more prone to dryness and flaking.
Lack of adequate hydration and insufficient fluid intake can contribute to skin dryness, including the nipples.
To relieve discomfort, it is essential to maintain good hygiene and gently dry the nipples after each feeding. Applying a specific nipple cream or ointment, preferably lanolin-based or with natural ingredients, would also help to hydrate and protect the skin.
Lanolin is a natural fatty substance obtained from sheep's wool. It is commonly used in skincare products, such as creams and ointments, due to its emollient and moisturizing properties.
Along these lines, Maminat offers you Aceite Luz, designed to nourish sensitive skin by containing oils that are very nourishing for dry skin.
It is composed of apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, olive oil, and calendula oil. It is ideal for both pregnant women and during breastfeeding, because it does not contain essential oils or any type of synthetic perfume.
Finally, there is no greater wisdom than a mother's body; breast milk itself is an excellent moisturizer and can be applied to the nipples to help hydrate them and promote healing.
Other recommended natural compounds are extra virgin olive oil, aloe vera, coconut oil, chamomile infusion, and shea butter.
Constant complete hydration is always highly recommended, both during pregnancy and postpartum. At Maminat, we have prepared the Super Hydration Pack with various products based on natural ingredients that will help you solve this problem.
We love luscious hair during pregnancy, but we suffer from hair loss postpartum.
We already know that during pregnancy, the entire body is revolutionized by hormonal action, and hair is no exception.
During pregnancy, hormone levels, such as estrogen and progesterone, increase significantly. These hormones have a positive effect on hair, stimulating its growth and slowing down its shedding cycle. As a result, many women notice that their hair becomes thicker, shinier, and healthier during pregnancy.
However, after childbirth, hormone levels decrease drastically. This can lead to an adjustment phase in the hair growth cycle. Many hair follicles that were in the growth phase (anagen) during pregnancy enter the resting phase (telogen). This means that hair that was retained in the growth phase during pregnancy begins to fall out, which is known as "telogen effluvium." This hair loss is temporary and generally normalizes within a few months as the hair cycle stabilizes.
It is important to note that this postpartum hair loss is common and generally temporary, and hair usually returns to its normal state over time.
Using a natural shampoo and hair products that do not contain sulfates, parabens, silicones, or chemical salts will help you stop hair loss and keep your hair strong and very nourished.
We also help you in this process, with Maminat's Solid Conditioner, your hair will be left soft and shiny thanks to orange blossom. Cinnamon will help prevent hair loss and combat brittle hair.
The essentials of skin care during pregnancy and postpartum
Now that we understand the importance of skin care during pregnancy and postpartum and know that these changes are normal and experienced to a greater or lesser extent by all mothers, let's look at some recommended products to keep the skin healthy and beautiful:
- Sunscreen: Since skin is more sensitive to the sun during pregnancy, it is essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect it from UV damage. Maminat's SPF 50 sunscreen fully protects you from the sun with the best natural physical filters. It is high protection ideal for all areas of your body and face, and it also received the award for best sunscreen at the 2023 Orgànics Clean Awards. You can't miss it!
- Gentle Cleansers: Opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers to keep skin clean without irritating it. At Maminat, we present Virginal Milk, a completely natural and gentle cleanser and makeup remover. It does not dry out or grease the skin and can be used even by the most sensitive skin types.
- Moisturizers: Use fragrance-free moisturizers to prevent dry skin and relieve itching. Check out Maminat's complete Hydration line.
- Natural Oils: Natural oils like almond oil, coconut oil, and rosehip oil are excellent for preventing stretch marks and relieving dry skin. Maminat's Anti-Stretch Mark Oil contains these ingredients, and it does not contain essential oils or perfumes, making it suitable for both pregnancy and postpartum.
- Relaxing lotions, oils: To relieve tension and foster connection with the baby while spreading the product on your belly, consider using lotions, oils, or shower gel with relaxing aromatherapy. At Maminat, we present the Balance Shower Gel, with which you will be able to relax and stay in "balance" thanks to the multiple properties of lavender.
In summary, skin care during pregnancy and postpartum is an important part of a mother's overall well-being. These care measures are not just about preventing stretch marks in pregnancy, dry nipples, or hair loss, which are the most common problems faced by expectant mothers. Skin care should be comprehensive, and the sooner we start, the better prepared our skin will be to face the changes of the following months.
Remember that everything starts from within, so it is essential to drink plenty of water and eat healthily, so that it is also reflected in our skin.
With the right selection of products and following a skin care routine, you can maintain healthy skin and feel more comfortable as your body experiences these remarkable changes. Take care of your skin, and remember that beauty lies in the confidence and health of your skin during this special stage of your life.
Remember that every woman is different, so it is always advisable to consult a dermatologist or health professional before using new products on the skin during pregnancy and postpartum.
On our YouTube channel, we share some detailed tips:
Breastfeeding with cracked nipples? Maminat, natural cosmetics.
