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Common Questions about Dry Skin in Pregnancy September 15, 2023
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Common Questions about Dry Skin in Pregnancy
As we head into the colder months, many of my beautiful mama patients ask me about how to how to prevent and treat dry skin. Here are a few common pearls…
Why does our skin become drier during pregnancy?
Pregnant women have a significant decrease in their skin surface lipids (fats) which protect us and maintain moisture. In a recent study from Scientific Reports, skin lipids were shown to decrease significantly in mid-pregnancy. These skin lipids are responsible for maintaining the protective skin barrier and relaying signals to keep the skin microflora healthy. This decrease in the secretion of skin surface lipids results in a weakened skin barrier with increased skin sensitivity since healthy skin relies on a strong lipid profile.
What are the parts of the face/body that are most susceptible to dryness and why?
The face, arms, elbows, hands, legs, and feet are especially prone to dry skin caused by water loss. These areas are more likely to be exposed to harsh weather and dry heat during the winter months. As a result of COVID-19, we also wash our hands or use hand sanitizer much more frequently, leading to dryness, and even cracking of the skin on our hands.
What are some of the most common causes of dry skin other than changes during pregnancy?
When our skin rapidly loses water, it will become dry. Harsh deodorant body washes and soaps, as well as laundry detergents with fragrance and dye will strip the skin of natural protective fats and oils. Taking long, hot showers and living in colder, dryer climates can also culprits. By the age of 60, most people will suffer from dry skin. Specific medications, cancer treatment such as radiation, or chemotherapy and certain diseases can also cause dry skin.
What are three ways to help prevent dry skin?
Moisturize : Moisturizer plays an important role in preventing and healing dry skin Apply following showers or baths, and target dryer areas like hands and feet- and do not forget your lips! You can also apply moisturizer several times a day if you need to. It is important to purchase a moisturizer for sensitive skin without fragrance. This also applies to laundry detergent.
Use Gentle face and body cleansers: Chose face and body cleansers that are for sensitive skin and non-irritating. These will be fragrance free and will state “for sensitive skin “ and/or “fragrance free” on their packaging. To note, “fragrance free” is not the same as “unscented.” Unscented skincare will use a chemical to cover up the scent from other ingredients in the product, so stay clear of these products.
Take 5 minute warm showers or baths: Hot water is notorious for striping the skin of our natural oils and fats which help maintain appropriate moisture and will also worsen dry skin. Limit your showers to about 5 minutes or less and use warm water. Additionally, if your home is very dry, using a humidifier can increase humidity and help to prevent and treat dry skin.
What ingredients should you look for to help soothe and get rid of dryness that are safe in Pregnancy?
Ceramides: This skin-identical ingredient (naturally found in our body), is an essential barrier protector and is responsible for keeping moisture within the skin. It is the “glue” that keeps our skin cells together. Choose skincare with this ingredient because it will maintain and strengthen our skin barrier while retaining moisture year round.
Squalane: This powerful ingredient not only boosts hydration but acts as an antioxidant to protect our skin from environmental stressors, while promoting firmness. This is particularly beneficial for the skin in Winter because of its multitasking properties.
Hyaluronic Acid: The true skin saving hydrator is especially valuable for people with very dry skin on the face. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. One tip- always use on damp skin as it will act as a sponge and absorb water to optimize moisture.
Glycerin: This humectant acts by pulling water into the outer skin layers and also from the atmosphere. Studies have also shown that glycerin can remain within the skin to produce continuous hydration for days. This hydrating ingredient is also terrific for sensitive and more reactive skin types.