Postpartum Skincare
After writing my Pregnancy Skincare blog (and giving birth to my second baby girl), the main feedback I've received centers around how Pregnancy Skincare translates to Postpartum Skincare: Are the suggestions the same, are the restrictions identical, how will my skin react, etc. Trust me, I get it. It can feel like after 9-10 months of so many changes and uncertainties, you're faced with a new chapter brimming with equally as many shifts and questions. My main goal is to help guide you through skincare during your postpartum journey, so there's one less question mark you have to face.
Full disclosure: many of the skin changes you noticed during pregnancy may continue into the postpartum period. However, it's crucial to remember that everyone's experience is uniquely their own, so these changes aren't a given for everyone. With that, I think being informed about potential postpartum skin developments is essential (I also know that for me, being aware that these changes were common, made me feel a little less alone).
Here are a few skin shifts you might notice (again, some of which you probably already started to notice in pregnancy):
Hormonal Fluctuations: Let’s be real, starting from the moment you're pregnant, the hormonal changes are non stop. During postpartum, the significant hormonal adjustment your body undergoes can result in various skin changes, including enhanced sensitivity and unexpected bouts of acne.
Stretch Marks & Skin Elasticity: I mentioned this in my pregnancy blog as well, but I do want to emphasize that everyone’s opinions towards stretch marks are completely different and completely valid. Again, I think it’s just nice to know what to expect! For anybody not already familiar with these terms, your skin has spent the last 9-10 months stretching to accommodate your growing baby. As a result, visible lines that represent this stretching are likely to remain post-pregnancy.
Hyperpigmentation: You have probably heard me mention hyperpigmentation before ( a nemesis of mine). While this does spike during pregnancy (typically), it also might persist a little longer than anticipated. The reasons for this include that even after delivery, your body goes through a period of hormonal adjustments as it returns to its pre-pregnancy state. Not to mention, the increased melanin production triggered during pregnancy by hormonal changes may not immediately cease after childbirth. If you’re in this boat and feeling distressed, I am here for you! It will get better and we will go over some of the things you can do right now to help.
Dryness & Itchiness: Postpartum, your skin's increased need for moisture is significantly influenced by hormonal changes that occur as your body recovers. These hormonal fluctuations can affect your skin's ability to retain water, leading to dehydration and a feeling of almost tightness or flakiness. Additionally, if you're breastfeeding, your body's hydration needs increase to support milk production, which can further deplete your skin's natural moisture levels, emphasizing the need for extra hydration to maintain its health and elasticity. And let’s not forget what all the bottle washing does to our hands!
Hair Changes: Your hair might also undergo changes, from increased shedding to alterations in texture (DM me if you would like me to do a separate blog on postpartum haircare). I remember sitting down for my first haircut postpartum and my stylist who I’ve seen for years saying with a sad face- “wow your texture changed”. Cue a $200 panic order of haircare at sephora lol.
Ingredients To Avoid (Breastfeeding vs. Not Breastfeeding):
I want to start this off by saying that I will split this into two paragraphs: the first directed towards mommas breastfeeding, the second directed towards mommas not breastfeeding!
I highly recommend you consult with your derm provider to determine the most suitable time to reintroduce certain ingredients back into your skincare routine. You might be wondering, why is this the case? Essentially, there is limited research on how these ingredients impact fetuses and infants. Due to this, whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, there are certain skincare ingredients you should continue to approach with caution to ensure both your health and your baby's (truly out of an abundance of caution). I won’t go into too much detail over each ingredient (since I covered them thoroughly in the pregnancy blog), but generally, some choose to avoid Hydroquinone, and Chemical Sunscreens (if you are breastfeeding). While it’s generally safe to reintroduce them post-breastfeeding.
For those not breastfeeding, the path to reintroducing these active ingredients may be less constrained, but it's still important to proceed with caution. Your skin has undergone significant changes over the last 9-10 months, and its sensitivity levels may have shifted. Start slowly, reintroducing one product at a time, and monitor your skin's response. This careful approach allows you to effectively gauge what works best for your postpartum skin without overwhelming it. Regardless of your breastfeeding status, prioritizing safety and a gradual reintroduction of active ingredients will help you navigate postpartum skincare.
A special note on retinoids: we avoid retinoids during pregnancy out of caution as the oral form (isotretinoin) is known to increase the risk of birth defects in the developing fetus. While retinoids are a no-go in pregnancy, there is little concern to add them back in after even if breastfeeding!
Specifically for reintroducing actives, start by patch testing to gauge your skin's reaction, especially after a break from these products. Gradually incorporate them back into your routine at lower concentrations and frequencies, attentively listening to your skin's feedback.
Ok now that we have covered all of that, let’s get into some of the products I am using postpartum while I breastfeed!
Non-Stripping Cleanser: The postpartum period can make your skin more sensitive and reactive. I typically reach for a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser is a great option, it’s simple and effective (and budget friendly)!
Antioxidants: Vitamin C is pretty much a staple for me year round (whether I am pregnant, breastfeeding, or none of the above). By incorporating antioxidants like SkinCeuticals Vitamin C ,you are not only going to brighten the skin but also contribute to collagen synthesis, helping to reduce the appearance of postpartum skin concerns like dullness and uneven texture.
Hydration & Barrier Support: While pregnant or breastfeeding, one of my main concerns is keeping my skin hydrated and moisturized. Due to that, one of my top recommendations is to find a moisturizer you love. You’ve probably already heard me say this, but Alpyn Moisturizer is in my top 5 for the greatest moisturizer ever (trust me, this is not an easy title to get)! Pro Tip: try to look for moisturizers with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin to support hydration and barrier repair. Remember, a thin layer is all you need!
SPF (MVP STEP): Sunscreen is essential ALWAYS, but I find this time to be a little extra critical. As I mentioned before, melasma and hyperpigmentation tends to worsen with the hormonal fluctuations of pregnancy and postpartum, so sunscreen is a MUST for keeping it from getting worse. ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless is really that girl when it comes to SPF. It provides mineral SPF50 protection, but also helps repair and strengthen the skin with DNA Repairsomes and peptides. It also has a really nice finish (tbh it makes me feel a little more put together while in the newborn trenches).
Gentle Active Ingredients: Gentle actives are one of the routine additions I personally love during pregnancy and postpartum. They provide a light exfoliation and help a ton with breakouts during the hormone fluctuations. Naturium’s Azelaic Topical Acid 10% and Korej’s Mandelic Acid are two of my obsessions.
Retinoids: I mentioned this before, but I personally feel totally fine using one (I literally had mine in my hospital bag). If you choose to use one, Naturium Retinaldehyde is a great choice because it’s a gentle yet effective option to help with skin cell turnover. Use code “AMYK15” for a discount!
Belly Balm: I want to start off by saying that if you are looking to soften stretch marks, it’s important to understand that stretch marks are essentially scars that form beneath the skin. Therefore, I want to manage expectations when it comes to over-the-counter treatments. Lotions, balms, and creams may not entirely eliminate stretch marks, but they can offer benefits that support skin elasticity and strength. These products can moisturize the skin deeply, making it more supple, and in some cases, help in subtly fading the appearance of stretch marks. However, don’t expect too much here. With that, incorporating these specially formulated balms, lotions, and creams into your postpartum skincare routine can be a comforting practice, offering a moment of self-care while gently tending to the changes your body has experienced. While professional in-office treatments like vascular laser (newer stretch marks) and microneedling (older) may offer more dramatic results, these at-home remedies provide a nurturing way to support your skin's recovery and resilience during the postpartum period. Also of note, retinoids can help to fade stretch marks especially ones that have already turned white. If you do decide to go the in-office route, it’s better to treat early when the stretch marks are still red!
In-Office Treatments with Professional Guidance
I know this won’t resonate with everyone, but I do think it’s worth mentioning. IF you are looking to do in-office treatments, once you feel ready and have finished breastfeeding (if applicable), consult with your der provider. From chemical peels to laser therapy to when you can get botox again, a professional can guide you towards treatments that are safe and effective for your postpartum skin recovery.
I want to end this blog by saying that it’s crucial to remember that every mom's postpartum journey is unique, and so is her skin. These tips are meant to serve as a starting point for you to explore what works best for your skin during this time. Best you can, prioritize self-care and patience, allowing your skin the time it needs to adjust. If it would be supportive to you, I am happy to do a sample AM & PM Skin Routine for you (let me know if you would like to see it next)!
If you have any other pregnancy skin or hair questions, comment them down below or DM me! I am more than happy to write a blog on the topic!
Hungry for more? Check out my Comprehensive Skincare Guide in the Skinthusiast Shop!
**Disclaimer: This post does not constitute medical advice. Please speak to your Dermatology provider before adding any at home procedures or products into your routine!
***This post contains affiliate links.
