5 POSTPARTUM SKIN PROBLEMS TIPS FOR PREVENTION

Similar to skin problems that arise during pregnancy, similarly there are sin problems that arise postpartum. Here are the solutions on how to get rid of these skin issues post pregnancy.

Women go through a lot of changes while giving birth, be it physically or emotionally. Normalizing seems impossible. The hair and the skin go through most changes, but none of this is permanent. By taking a little care of herself, women can go back to their pre-pregnancy self.

Listed below are five skin problem that women face postpartum and some prevention tips: -

1. Melasma - "The mask of pregnancy."

Melasma, also known as chloasma, mainly occurs when there is an increase in melanin production in the skin. This skin problem is a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. It can also be caused due to sun exposure. Since melasma is associated with estrogen and progesterone sensitivity, it is one of the most common skin issues women face post-delivery. Symptoms include the appearance of brown patches on the cheeks, forehead, neck, and forearms. Though melasma does not cause any physical harm, people may feel self-conscious about their appearance.

PREVENTION:

a) Preventing your skin from too much exposure to the sun is essential. Use sunscreen that blocks the sun-rays as well as its heat. Apply a broad-spectrum sunblock that protects the skin from UVA and UVB and has an SPF of 30. Women with darker complexion are more susceptible to melasma. Darker skin does not have the extra SPF to protect from UV rays. It is advisable that you apply sunscreen whether or not it is sunny outside as the UV rays are still present.

b) Post-pregnancy, use mild products that are sensitive to your skin.

c) Consult a doctor and take pills that prevent the hormonal imbalance and keep them in check.

2. Postpartum Stretchmarks

STRETCHMARKS

Stretch marks are caused when the body grows faster than your skin can keep up with. The elastic fibers which are present below the skin surface tend to break. About 90% of women get stretch marks during their sixth or seventh month of pregnancy. These marks appear red when fresh and then slowly fade to white after delivery. On average, a woman gains 30 pounds during her nine months of pregnancy. Postpartum stretch marks are bound to appear when growth occurs at such a rate, especially on the belly and breasts, which grow the most.

PREVENTION:

a) Stretchmarks are very difficult to prevent, but intensively moisturizing the marks during pregnancy may help the condition.

b) Using stretch mark creams available in the market can also help.

c) It is always good to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. This also prevents the skin from itching.

3. Dermatitis or Eczema

About one-third of women experience dermatitis during and after pregnancy. It is a non-infectious skin condition, usually an aggravation of an underlying sensitive skin condition present for some time. It is also thought to be linked to overactive immune response or can occur in new mothers if they are in frequent contact with water due to excessive handwashing. Post-pregnancy, there might be a shift in skin proteins, immune cells, or a change in the skin barrier or stress, triggering eczema. Symptoms include rough, itchy, inflamed, overly dry skin conditions.

PREVENTION:

a) Using topical steroid creams is safe even while breastfeeding. It calms inflamed skin.

b) A gentle soap should be used post-pregnancy.

c) Avoid irritants and allergens.

d) Wear loose-fitting clothes.

e) Wash your skin and lubricate it several times a day using gentle creams, lotions, and moisturizers.

f) Take warm baths, do not use too hot water.

4. Postpartum Telogen Effluvium Fallacy

Postpartum Telogen Effluvium Fallacy is a condition that results in hair fall, which can always be very distressing for a new mother. It occurs about three months after delivery. It mainly happens due to hormonal changes. After pregnancy, estrogen level falls, with hair becoming thinner. Your hair goes into a dormant phase (telogen phase) during pregnancy, and less hair loss occurs. The next phase is telogen effluvium when hair fall occurs. The loss and regrowth of hair are very apparent in the area above your forehead.

PREVENTION:

a) Maintain a healthy body and lifestyle after delivery.

b) Make sure that you do gentle-to-moderate exercise regularly.

c) Take your vitamins and mineral supplements such as Vit B, Vit E, iron, zinc, etc., as prescribed, on time.

d) Maintain a healthy diet rich in nutrients to support your changing body.

e) Stress postpartum also cause hair fall, so try and reduce your stress levels by practicing meditation, breathing exercises, mindfulness.

f) Consult a doctor if there is excess hair fall.

5. Hypersensitivity and Acne:

ACNE

The skin may become hypersensitive after pregnancy, and anything may cause adverse effects on the skin. Skin allergy can occur postpartum. Acne breakouts during and post-pregnancy are widespread.

It is mainly triggered by hormonal changes and increased sebum (oil) production, which may clog pores. Pimples are another skin problem that may appear due to high levels of progesterone. Your body releases cortisol, a stress hormone, due to chronic stress. More sebum production is promoted due to an increase in cortisol level. This may clog pores or cause breakouts. Dry, dehydrated skin or touching your face too much can transfer the bacteria, which can also trigger sebum secretion leading to acne production.

PREVENTION:

a) Use oil-free skincare products that will not clog pores and indirectly lead to lesser hypersensitivity and acne problems.

b) Shower after exercising.

c) Wash your face with mild soap twice a day.

d) Exfoliate two times a week to get rid of dead skin cells.

Wellness forever brings some very effective products that can help women with their skin issues post-delivery. Some of them are listed below: -

i) There are various anti-stretch mark creams such as Inostretch 60gm, Palmer's cocoa butter stretch mark cream and lotion, etc., which help remove stretchmarks postpartum.

ii) They also have sunscreens like Avene crème day protector UV SPF30, which protects the skin from harmful sun rays.

iii) Elugia cleanser LTN 125ml – helps to keep your skin clean.

Postpartum care of the mother is as critical as the postnatal care of the newborn as a healthy mother means a healthy baby. This is possible with Wellness Forever and its range of products, which offer complete care and safety for both the mother and the child.