Pregnancy and skin

12/06/2025

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Camille A.

Pregnancy is a unique time that transforms a woman's body, and the skin is no exception. These skin changes are primarily caused by the hormonal fluctuations of pregnancy .
In this article, we explain everything that changes in the skin during pregnancy , and give you our best simple and suitable advice for taking care of it.

Changes during pregnancy

Hormonal variations

During pregnancy, the body undergoes a real hormonal upheaval with a significant increase in estrogen and progesterone . While these hormones can promote vascularization and hydration of the skin, they can also cause certain skin problems.

Skin changes

Increased vascularization of the skin

During pregnancy, blood flow increases by approximately 50% to ensure adequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby¹. This increase has a direct impact on the skin with the appearance of:

Diffuse redness called erythrosis, mainly on the face (cheeks, nose, chin) and sometimes the neck,
Stellate angiomas : small dilated vessels in the shape of red stars on the face, neck, but also on the chest and arms.
Increased sensitivity to temperature variations .

Alteration of the hydrolipidic film

Under the effect of hormonal levels during pregnancy, the hydrolipidic film can become less protective and less effective with several modifications²:

The reduction in sebum production, especially in women with naturally dry skin.
The modification of the lipid composition with a reduction of essential lipids (ceramides, fatty acids) which weakens the barrier function of the skin.
Increased dehydration linked to an increase in body temperature and hormones that lead to increased sweating.

Increased seborrhea

Unlike some pregnant women, others may experience an increase in their skin's sebum production . This increased production is mainly due to the increase in androgen and progesterone hormones, which stimulate the activity of the sebaceous glands. As a result, the skin may become oilier , particularly on the nose, forehead, and chin, and may increase the risk of spots and pregnancy acne.³

Increased skin reactivity

Perhaps you have experienced it, when pregnant, your skin can become more sensitive and react more intensely to its environment (pollution, UV, cosmetic products, etc.). This skin hyper-reactivity is explained by an increase in cortisol levels , but also by changes in skin pH and an imbalance in the skin microbiota . These three conditions promote inflammation , making the skin more prone to irritation, redness and acne breakouts. Thus, cosmetic products that were usually well tolerated before pregnancy can suddenly cause reactions or redness⁴.

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation during pregnancy is caused by an increase in the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which stimulate melanocytes, the cells responsible for melanin production. This leads to darkening of certain areas such as the nipples, armpits, the black line on the stomach, and sometimes the face (melasma or pregnancy mask), a phenomenon accentuated by sun exposure⁴.

Skin concerns during pregnancy

Life as a mother-to-be isn't always easy, and during pregnancy, various skin concerns can arise. Around 90% of pregnant women experience skin changes that can seriously impact their quality of life and mood ⁴.

On the body

Stretch marks

Stretch marks are arguably the biggest concern for expectant mothers. 75% of pregnant women are prone to stretch marks. ⁵ And in addition to their unsightly appearance, they can cause increased emotional and psychological distress in around 25% of women.⁵ They appear as pink or purple streaks, mainly on the stomach, hips, thighs, and breasts.

They result from rapid weight gain and significant stretching of the skin , leading to a breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers . Added to this mechanical stress is the impact of pregnancy hormones , which reduce the skin's ability to repair itself.
Itching

Many pregnant women experience drier, itchy, and tight skin . This itching (pruritus of pregnancy) frequently appears on the stomach, breasts, and legs. The causes? Stretching of the skin, which loses its elasticity, and hormonal changes that disrupt sebum production and dry out the skin.
The black line on the belly

Promoted by increased estrogen and progesterone, the linea nigra , or black line , is a vertical hyperpigmentation that appears in the middle of the abdomen in approximately 30 to 90% of pregnant women between the 2nd and 3rd trimester⁶. The black line usually extends from the pubis to the navel and can reach the sternum. It is often more pronounced in women with dark skin. In most cases, the black line gradually fades after delivery (between 3 and 6 months after birth), as female hormones return to normal.
Pregnancy eczema

Characterized by dry skin, red patches and more or less intense itching , pregnancy eczema is quite common, affecting around 20 to 30% of pregnant women . It generally develops before the 3rd trimester. In 80% of cases, it occurs for the first time while it is pre-existing for 20% of women⁷. Pregnancy eczema is favored by hormonal changes in pregnant women which increase inflammation.

On the face

The pregnancy mask

Also known as melasma, pregnancy mask is characterized by the formation of more or less extensive brown spots on the forehead, cheekbones, and upper lip. It results from hyperpigmentation induced by variations in estrogen observed during pregnancy, but also from genetic predispositions. Thus, pregnancy mask affects between 15% and 50% of pregnant women , with a higher prevalence in women with dark skin⁸. It frequently occurs between the 4th and 6th month of pregnancy. In those affected, melasma can be associated with increased anxiety (45% of people)⁹.

FEMME-AVEC-ACNE-QUI-APPLIQUE-DE-LA-CREME

Pregnancy acne

During pregnancy, some women experience acne breakouts on their faces. Approximately 43% of expectant mothers are affected between the 2nd and 3rd trimester¹⁰. These acne breakouts are caused by increased sebum production due to changes in estrogen. This is more specifically called hormonal acne . Some women develop acne for the first time during their pregnancy, which can cause discomfort or even anxiety.

How to take care of your skin during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the skin undergoes many changes, some of which have varying degrees of impact on the mother-to-be's quality of life and mood. Fortunately, it's possible to adopt a few steps and a tailored skincare routine to protect the skin and relieve discomfort.

Body care

It is important to help the skin of the body, and especially that of the belly, to adapt to the stretching and changes induced by the hormones to which it is subjected during the 9 months of pregnancy.

To minimize the risk of stretch marks appearing and limit skin dryness , it is important to focus on:

Intense hydration and nutrition : with treatments rich in moisturizing active ingredients such as glycerin and urea, and nourishing ones such as vegetable oils (sweet almond, camelina, etc.)
A restructuring action : under the effect of stretching, the skin "cracks", its entire structure is impacted. Opting for remodeling active ingredients such as maracuja oil which stimulates the synthesis of collagen and elastin helps limit and reduce the appearance of stretch marks .
Gentle massages : Massage your skin daily with products with oily textures to improve skin elasticity and reduce the impact of stretch marks . In addition to bringing well-being to yourself, you will also be doing good for your baby.

The Topicrem answer:

To take care of your stretch marks and scars, discover our CICA+ Concentrated Anti-Stretch Mark and Scar Oil . Concentrated in vegetable oils of maracuja, sweet almond and camelina and containing 99% natural ingredients, it will bring you comfort, suppleness and nutrition, to limit and prevent the appearance of stretch marks from the first trimester of pregnancy. You can also use it postpartum to massage your scars (cesarean section) and promote good skin repair.

To reduce the dark line on your stomach, choose the Anti-Dark Spot Concentrate from the MELA range which, thanks to its patented MELA complex [Niacinamide + Algae Extract] integrated into a treatment with a cannula tip, allows precise and targeted application on hyperpigmented areas.

Finally, in case of dry skin, discover our Comforting Balm from the ULTRA-HYDRATING range , ideal for nourishing and intensely hydrating the skin of the body.

Facial care

During pregnancy, your facial skincare routine varies little from a good, traditional routine. In addition, depending on your beauty concerns, a few additional steps and treatments may be necessary.

Cleanse your skin morning and evening : choose gentle cleansing with a soap-free cleanser to avoid drying out your skin.
Boost hydration : for example, with a hydrating serum and a light cream suitable for sensitive skin.
Reduce the appearance of pregnancy masks by applying daily care enriched with active ingredients that regulate melanogenesis, such as niacinamide.
Protect your skin from the sun : During pregnancy, your skin is more sensitive to UV rays. Therefore, remember to protect your skin daily with a high-sPF sunscreen (SPF 30 or 50) to prevent the appearance of melasma. Also, wear a hat and protective clothing when going out in the sun.
Target hormonal acne : If your skin experiences acne breakouts during pregnancy, it is possible to limit them with treatments containing targeted active ingredients that rebalance the skin's microbiome (lysine dendrimer, for example).

The Topicrem answer:

To target hormonal acne during your pregnancy, discover our AC CONTROL routine with our Purifying Micellar Water which will leave your skin fresh and clear and our Anti-Imperfection Balancing Treatment which will correct your spots by rebalancing the skin microbiome.

To prevent and reduce the pregnancy mask , turn to our MELA range and its Anti-Dark Spot Radiance Serum with intensive corrective action as well as its Unifying Day Cream which will protect your skin thanks to double SPF50+ protection and anti-blue light.

Hygiene of life and diet

Adopting a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy will also help you limit the impact of hormonal changes on your skin and preserve its radiance and health. Here are some recommendations:

Drink enough:
- 2 to 2.5 liters of water per day helps maintain hydration and limit skin dryness.
- Eat foods rich in water (fruits, vegetables, soups) to boost internal hydration.
Adopt a balanced diet:
- Choose foods rich in omega-3 (oily fish, nuts, flax seeds) to strengthen the skin barrier.
- Choose fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants (carrots, tomatoes, berries, spinach) to protect the skin from oxidative stress.
- Reduce your intake of caffeine and refined sugars , which can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and promote acne.
Get enough sleep:
- Quality sleep optimizes cell renewal and promotes a glowy, radiant complexion.
- Try to get as much sleep as possible each night. If necessary, create a relaxing routine before bed (reading, meditation, mild herbal teas).
Limit stress:
- Stress can exacerbate skin imbalances like acne, eczema, and hypersensitivity. Take time for yourself and practice relaxing activities like prenatal yoga, deep breathing, or sophrology.

Pregnancy transforms the body, mind, and even the skin, which is subject to the stretching of the belly and hormonal changes. To help you experience this period with peace of mind, Topicrem supports you daily to make this magical moment a moment of well-being.

TOPICREM formulas have all been designed to provide protective hydration and preserve the skin barrier of sensitive skin for the whole family.

To do this, the laboratory relies on its expertise derived from pharmaceutical excellence:

Selection of high tolerance ingredients with proven effectiveness,
Development of formulas clinically tested on sensitive skin,
Effectiveness proven by science and approved by consumers.

Through the comfort and emotional well-being they provide, our treatments help you feel confident in your skin and in yourself, to better reveal yourself to others, and thus to fully enjoy every moment of life.

Bibliographic references:

¹Hytten F. Blood volume changes in normal pregnancy. Clin Haematol. 1985 Oct;14(3):601-12. PMID: 4075604.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4075604/

²Chen F, Huang D. Study on the skin status of mid-pregnancy women based on lipidomics. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Mar;20(3):955-963. doi:10.1111/jocd.13866. Epub 2020 Dec 9. PMID: 33251666.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33251666/

³Motosko CC, Bieber AK, Pomeranz MK, Stein JA, Martires KJ. Physiologic changes of pregnancy: A review of the literature. Int J Womens Dermatol. 2017 Oct 21;3(4):219-224. doi: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2017.09.003. PMID: 29234716; PMCID: PMC5715231.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5715231/

⁴Gupta SN, Madke B, Ganjre S, Jawade S, Kondalkar A. Cutaneous Changes During Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus. 2024 Sep 23;16(9):e69986. doi:10.7759/cureus.69986. PMID: 39445254; PMCID: PMC11497768.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11497768/

⁵Karhade K, Lawlor M, Chubb H, Johnson TRB, Voorhees JJ, Wang F. Negative perceptions and emotional impact of striae gravidarum among pregnant women. Int J Womens Dermatol. 2021 Nov 3;7(5Part B):685-691. doi: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2021.10.015. PMID: 35028366; PMCID: PMC8714569.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35028366/

⁶Cohen PR. Linea Nigra: Case Report of a Woman With a Pregnancy-Associated Linear Streak of Cutaneous Hyperpigmentation on Her Abdomen From the Umbilicus to the Pubic Symphysis. Cureus. 2023 Nov 6;15(11):e48408. doi:10.7759/cureus.48408. PMID: 38074022; PMCID: PMC10701200.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10701200/#:~:text=Similar%20to%20this%20patient%2C%20clinical,after%20delivery%20of%20the%20newborn.

⁷Munera-Campos M, Carrascosa JM. Atopic Dermatitis: Fertility, Pregnancy, and Treatment Perspectives. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2024 Jan;25(1):55-66. doi:10.1007/s40257-023-00821-4. Epub 2023 Oct 30. PMID: 37904055.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37904055/

⁸Basit H, Godse KV, Al Aboud AM. Melasma. [Updated 2023 Aug 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459271/#

⁹Platsidaki E, Efstathiou V, Markantoni V, Kouris A, Kontochristopoulos G, Nikolaidou E, Rigopoulos D, Stratigos A, Gregoriou S. Self-Esteem, Depression, Anxiety and Quality of Life in Patients with Melasma Living in a Sunny Mediterranean Area: Results from a Prospective Cross-Sectional Study. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2023 May;13(5):1127-1136. doi:10.1007/s13555-023-00915-1. Epub 2023 Mar 30. PMID: 36995579; PMCID: PMC10149543.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10149543/#:~:text=Melasma%20patients%20presented%20statistically%20significantly,health%2Drelated%20quality%20of%20life.

¹⁰Ly S, Kamal K, Manjaly P, Barbieri JS, Mostaghimi A. Treatment of Acne Vulgaris During Pregnancy and Lactation: A Narrative Review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2023 Jan;13(1):115-130. doi:10.1007/s13555-022-00854-3. Epub 2022 Nov 29. PMID: 36447117; PMCID: PMC9823189.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9823189/#:~:text=While%20epidemiologic%20data%20are%20limited,pregnancy%20%5B1–3%5D.