Beauty tricks to make you glow
ACNE
What to expect: Breakouts occur for a number of reasons during pregnancy. "In the first trimester, hormone levels are increasing. Oil glands become more active and are prone to inflammation and hence acne," says Dr Mei Tam from All About Acne (allaboutacne.com.au). Dr Tam also explains that many women have to stop using treatments such as topical retinoids, the Pill and isotretinoin (also known as accutane) to become pregnant, which means acne might pop up. "Most find their acne flares from six weeks to three months after stopping such medication," says Dr Tam.
THE REMEDY
Adjust your skincare routine to keep breakouts at bay. "Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser, then use an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser," says Dr Tam. Look for products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which will be listed as glycolic acid or lactic acid, as these are safe during pregnancy and will unclog pores. Avoid salicylic acid as oral use has been linked to birth defects. "Acne will generally settle two to three months after the birth. But if you're breastfeeding, it may continue until you stop," explains Dr Tam.
HAIR FACTOR
What to expect: While some women find their hair becomes a little lacklustre during pregnancy, others may notice that it feels fuller and thicker. This is most likely not because the hair is growing more, but because it is actually shedding less. The average woman sheds about 100 hairs a day naturally, but thanks to an increase in oestrogen during pregnancy, this process is slowed down leaving hair feeling thicker.
You may also notice an increase in hair on your body too, with hair growing thicker and faster. "This is often seen during pregnancy and is related to the changing hormone levels," explains Dr Liz Dawes-Higgs, dermatologist at Northern Sydney Dermatology (nsdermatology.com.au). New hairs might sprout on the chin, neck and around the nipples, and pubic hair may thicken or grow higher up or further down the thighs.
THE REMEDY
Treat hair to a nourishing mask once a week to keep it looking shiny and healthy during and after pregnancy. If it's more frizzy or unruly than usual, comb a straightening balm through before styling. Also, don't be alarmed if you notice increased hair loss just after the baby is born. "This is probably just normal shedding that hasn't occurred during pregnancy," says Dr Dawes-Higgs. As for body hair, it's safe to shave, pluck or wax, although the latter two may be slightly more painful than usual due to increased sensitivity during pregnancy.
NAIL IT
What to expect: Some women's nails grow faster during pregnancy, while others find they become more soft or brittle. "Very occasionally grooves form across the nail," says Dr Dawes-Higgs. Separation of the nail from the nail bed can sometimes occur too - a condition called onycholysis.
THE REMEDY
These problems are temporary and your nails should return to normal within three to six months after the birth. To help keep your nails healthy while expecting, Dr Dawes-Higgs recommends sticking to a balanced, healthy diet filled with nutrients. Also, use a strengthening product, and when painting your nails, steer clear of polishes containing dibutyl phthalate, toluene and formaldehyde as they've been linked to cancer, asthma and birth defects. It also helps to wear rubber gloves when doing housework to prevent breakages.
For more on the preg beauty changes you'll experience, pick up the latest issue of Cosmo Pregnancy, on sale now.
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