That Pregnant Glow

Keeping Your Skin Radiant and Healthy

By Jacqueline Rupp

That warm shine across the face is what most people think about when they picture a pregnant woman's skin. True, most moms-to-be do experience a glow, but itchy dry skin, varicose veins and stretch marks also bother many.

The skin is the largest organ in the human body, so it is no surprise it goes through a lot of changes during the nine months of pregnancy. Hormones play a major role in changing skin conditions as the body responds to the new pregnancy hormones. To make sense of all these changes, we've sorted through the standard skin conditions and offer you tips for keeping your skin in top form throughout your pregnancy.

Termed hyper-pigmentation, areas such as the breasts, groin, under arms and thighs often become a shade darker in pigment. A line known as the linea nigra may also show up running down along the abdomen to the pubic area. "Perhaps the most noticeable pigmentary change during pregnancy is melasma," says Dr. Kristin Stevens, a board certified dermatologist in Portland, Ore. Also known as "the mask of pregnancy," this facial pigment change occurs in about half of all pregnant women.

"It is thought that hormones that are elevated during pregnancy such as estrogen and progesterone may stimulate pigment production," says Dr. Stevens. "The tendency for tan patchy spots to appear on the upper cheeks, nose and upper lip is also increased by sun exposure or tanning booths due to the stimulatory effect of ultraviolet light on melanocytes, the body's pigment-producing cells." To reduce this effect, Dr. Stevens urges women to use a high SPF sunscreen and sun hat.

Varicose veins and spider veins are another annoyance many pregnant women experience. They are, however, superficial, which means they pose no harm other than how they look. These veins appear on the legs due to increased circulatory pressure and blood volume, which pushes them to the skin's surface, making them more visible. If you must stand for several hours a day, Dr. Stevens suggests investing in a pair of medical grade compression socks or stockings. Although they might not be your favorite fashion choice, these socks may help to decrease the likelihood of getting varicose or spider veins on the legs.

"Some women may notice small spider veins or telangiectasias to appear on the face and hands as well," says Dr. Stevens. "Most of these will fade within a few months of delivery; those that don't will respond to a laser treatment."

Want to see more?

• Liquid Health: Smart Nutrition for Thirsty Moms
• Creating Beauty from the Outside In: The Secret to Healthy, Radiant Skin
• Great Skin from the Inside Out: Nourish Your Skin with the Right Foods
• Talk about it!