Prenatal Hormonal Changes On Your Skin
Dry and dull skin on bad days — we all have them. But the case may be worse for pregnant mothers. Have you begun to notice the skin changes during this time in your life, such as acne, dark patches, or heightened sensitivity? The core reason for such changes is the hormonal shift and altered blood circulation in your body — and most of these skin conditions usually subside after delivery.
The bright side: pregnancy glow
However, that’s not to say they can’t be soothed during pregnancy. First, let us look at the best and most coveted skin change mothers face: the pregnancy glow.
Yes — the best kind of skin change is waking up every day to beautiful and radiant skin. The term “pregnancy glow” holds true for all you new mothers who will be complimented on the streets for your glowing skin. During this stage, your skin appears dewy and radiant.
Why does this happen? The process of pregnancy increases the blood circulation and oxygen delivery of the body, leading to increased blood flow and oxygen to your skin, making it look glowing.
Tips to maintain the glow: The pregnancy glow is natural for sure, but you can maintain and enhance it with prenatal facials. Face masks work perfectly too — mix 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel with 1 tablespoon of rose water and apply on your skin. Wash off after 20 minutes. This will add a boost to your already glowing skin.
Another way to maintain the pregnancy glow is a deep, pampering facial treat — our Signature Marine Detox Facial uses marine algae, rich in antioxidants and amino acids, to support cell regeneration and rebalance oily, congested skin.
Six skin concerns — and how to handle them
Besides the well-known benefits of having a little bun in your oven, many mums have come forward with the following skin problems following their pregnancies. Let’s look at how we can best soothe them for clearer, smoother skin during pregnancy.
Mask of pregnancy (melasma)
If you begin to notice dark patches appearing out of nowhere, don’t panic — it’s an effect of pregnancy known as Melasma or Chloasma. The increase in hormone production also affects melanin production, leading to dark patches on the nose, cheeks, forehead, or above the upper lips. Sunscreen (SPF 30+, pregnancy-safe) is the most important defence — reapply every two hours when outdoors. A vitamin-C DIY mask of orange peel powder and rose water, washed off after 15 minutes, also helps with consistent use.
Pregnancy acne
Acne, pimples, or zits are another skin change you may notice. Due to hormonal shifts, your skin starts to produce more oil, resulting in acne. If your skin is already sensitive, the severity tends to be higher — a dermatologist-approved skincare routine helps. A one-ingredient face mask for busy mamas: apply a thin layer of raw honey (Manuka if available) on your face and wash off after 15 minutes for clearer skin.
Stretch marks
Pregnancy and stretch marks often go hand in hand — the good news is they’re easier to fade if spotted early. They appear as red or purple lines when the underlying skin stretches as your body expands. Moisturising is the key to reducing their appearance. Mix vitamin E oil and olive oil and apply daily to stretch marks — slowly you’ll notice them fading.
Sensitive skin
With so many changes your body is going through, especially during prenatal pregnancy, it’s not surprising that your skin is sensitive. Use dermatologist-recommended products free of fragrances, preservatives, and harsh ingredients. Sensitive skin usually goes away after pregnancy, so use minimal products on your skin during this time. Apply natural aloe vera gel to calm and soothe — wash off after 15 minutes, twice a week.
Varicose veins
Blue or green-coloured veins making an appearance on your skin, especially your legs, is another effect of pregnancy. This happens when your body is trying to compensate for the blood going to the growing baby. Regulating blood circulation is the key. There are no creams for this — the secret is physical exercise. Engage in low-to-moderate-impact workouts and avoid standing for long periods. Our maternity stockings are designed exactly for this comfort and support.
Aggravation of existing conditions
An important point to keep in mind is that during prenatal pregnancy, many skin conditions you had prior — acne, eczema — might show up or be aggravated. Going to your dermatologist from the beginning of pregnancy with your complete skin history is the best way to keep these conditions under check. When it comes to skin treatments or any ingredient you put on your skin, proceed with caution and consult your doctor before you do.
Ask us about our Stretchmark Repair treatment — a sustained dermal-epidermal restructuring of damaged tissue that improves skin elasticity. Book at just $169.00 (60 mins).
BMB's pregnancy-safe skincare approach
At BMB, we believe in providing only the best for our pregnant mums — to promote comfort, wellness, and support in every stage of your pregnancy. Our prenatal facials and skincare are designed around ingredients that are safe for expecting mothers and screened on the day for your individual stage. We work alongside dermatologists and obstetricians whenever a client has a complicated history (such as cystic acne, severe eczema, or post-IVF skin sensitivity) so any treatment plan is endorsed by the wider care team.
Our BMB clients also enjoy an additional 10% off the usual price on our Prenatal & Postnatal Care range — inquire about it on your next visit. Some of our most-requested prenatal treatments include the Signature Marine Detox Facial (rich in marine algae for cell regeneration), the Hydration Replenish Facial (relieving the “oily yet dehydrated” pregnancy combination), and the Stretchmark Repair treatment for dermal-epidermal restructuring during the second and third trimesters when stretch marks first emerge.
Which of these skin changes have you noticed during your pregnancy? Book an appointment with us as we help you address your skin concerns through every stage of your pregnancy, giving you the confidence you need to feel at your best. See which of our facial treatments suit you best by chatting with our front-of-house team — they’ll match you with the safest, most effective option for your trimester and your skin. Most expecting mums benefit from a monthly pregnancy facial across the second and third trimesters, paired with a daily home-care routine of mineral sunscreen, hydrating serum, and gentle cleanser.
Sun, sleep, and stress — the supporting cast
Pregnancy skin doesn’t care only about what you put on it. Sleep deprivation (very common in the first and third trimesters) shows up on your skin within a week, suppressing collagen production and slowing barrier repair. Stress — especially anxious anticipation of birth — raises cortisol, which makes existing acne and sensitivity worse. And uneven sun exposure is the single biggest accelerator of melasma, particularly across the bridge of the nose and the cheeks where it’s most visible.
Prioritising the basics — a side-sleeping position with a body pillow, regular gentle exercise, a sun-aware daily routine with reapplication every two hours, and asking for support when you need it — gives your facial routine the foundation it needs to actually work. Pair the in-clinic treatments with these daily habits and most expecting mums see meaningful improvements in tone, hydration, and overall skin quality within four to six weeks.