4 Tips for Skin Protection During Summer Pregnancy

Women’s skin and summer sun are often season-long enemies in the battle for a nice and healthy complexion. Often pregnant women experience a variety of issues with their skin which are often augmented by the pressures of the summer heat and skin. For future mothers-to-be, the summer heat and sun can take an extra toll on a body that is already experiencing intense physical and hormonal responses. For those who are experiencing pregnancy during the summer season, there are ways to ease the discomfort caused by the high temperatures and humidity of the season as well as protecting your skin and health of the infant. Here are four easy tips women can follow for summer skin protection during pregnancy.

• Apply Sunscreen Multiples Times a Day

During pregnancy, the body stretches to make room for the baby that is being carried, thus increasing the surface area of the skin which means more skin that can be damaged by the sun. Applying sunscreen multiple times a day will ensure that exposed areas of the skin are protected from harmful UV-rays.

• Apply Cool Lotions or OTC Itch Creams to Prevent Skin Irritation

One issue during summer pregnancy is dry, itchy skin. A similar condition that affects non-pregnant women, yet more so since the stretched skin caused by pregnancy weight gain is dry enough as it is without the summer sun robbing the skin of needed moisture for the baby and the person carrying it. OTC itch creams and cool lotions can soothe dry itchy skin making summer pregnancy more manageable.

• Use Natural Remedies

There are also some natural remedies that may help as well. One solution would be rubbing coconut oil directly into dry, irritated areas as coconut oil can keep the skin stay taunt and soft as well as preventing stretch marks, scars, etc. Coconut oil can also be used to prevent frizzy hair, which can often act irrational in humid weather. If one has sensitive skin, petroleum jelly is another effective method, as it contains no harmful chemicals and ensures against future skin irritations, as well as reducing the risk of stretch marks. To soothe itching, it is recommended to take a warm bath with oatmeal. Other natural remedies include aloe Vera, lemon juice, and pasteurized apple cider vinegar; however, be careful to consults doctors before using any of these remedies.

• Avoid the Outdoors if Temperatures are Over 90 Degrees

Pregnant women are often at risk for a skin condition called melasma, Chloasma faciei, also known as the “mask of pregnancy” which is characterized by a discoloration of the skin and irregular tan patches on the face. Increased estrogen levels caused by pregnancy and sun exposure can increase the activity of pigment-producing cells. Therefore, avoiding the outdoors when temperatures are over 90 degrees can help prevent melasma. However, if there are signs of melasma a consultation with a personal dermatologist may prove useful.

Other useful tips for dealing with the torture of summer are:

• Wear light-colored, breezy clothing

• Take frequent naps

• Take quick, frequent showers to help cool off

• Minimize salt intake, which will combat water retention.

• Ask for help for simple everyday tasks such as cooking, cleaning, driving, etc.

• Always ask for a medical consultation if facing severe headaches, stomach aches, intensely cool or hot skin, or any other concerns befitting pregnancy.