Gifting has never been easier
Perfect if you're short on time or are unable to deliver your gift yourself. Enter your message and select when to send it.
Us mamas know that along with the joy pregnancy and nursing can bring, it can also bring skin changes and concerns. If you have noticed brown, patchy spots on your skin during pregnancy or while nursing, you might be experiencing a condition called chloasma, a form of melasma, also known as the "mask of pregnancy."
While melasma is the general term for this skin condition, chloasma specifically refers to melasma that we experience during pregnancy. While common, we know it can be unwanted. You deserve that pregnancy glow during this exciting time in your life, and are here to offer safe skincare options to reduce its appearance!
What is Chloasma?
Chloasma is a skin condition that is characterized by brown, patchy spots on the skin. Chloasma and melasma are actually two terms for the same condition, which is a form of hyperpigmentation characterized by brown or gray-brown patches on the skin. It is commonly known as the "mask of pregnancy" because it often appears during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Chloasma can also occur while nursing or when taking birth control pills. The spots are usually found on the face, but can also appear on other parts of the body such as the arms, neck and legs. They are usually larger than freckles and can appear in a symmetric pattern on both sides of the face.
While chloasma poses no discomfort or harm to your health, it can cause mamas to feel self conscious about their appearance during this emotional time. It is important to understand that chloasma is a common during pregnancy and will usually (but not always) disappear after giving birth.
Who is at risk of developing Chloasma?
Chloasma is most commonly found in women who are pregnant, nursing, or taking birth control pills. It is more common in women who have darker skin tones and those who have a family history of chloasma. Sun exposure can also trigger the condition, so it is important to wear sunscreen and limit your time in the sun.
What Causes Chloasma?
The exact cause of chloasma is not known, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes. During pregnancy, the body produces more estrogen and progesterone, which can stimulate the production of melanin - the pigment that gives our skin its color - in the skin. The increase in melanin production can lead to the appearance of brown, patchy spots on the skin. Chloasma can also be triggered by sun exposure. UV rays can stimulate the production of melanin in the skin, which can exacerbate the appearance of chloasma.
Ways to Manage and Prevent Chloasma:
While it may not be possible to completely prevent chloasma, there are some tips and lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk of developing it.
Safety First: Chloasma Treatments to Avoid when Pregnant or Nursing:
When it comes to treating chloasma during pregnancy or while nursing, it is important to choose safe treatment options that won't harm your baby. Here are some common treatments you want to avoid:
1. Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone is a common treatment for chloasma, but it is not safe to use during pregnancy or while nursing. It can be absorbed into the bloodstream and potentially harm your baby.
2. Chemical peels: Chemical peels can be effective for treating chloasma, but they are not safe to use during pregnancy or while nursing for the same reasons as Hydroquinone.
3. Laser therapy: Laser therapy can be effective for treating chloasma, but wait until you are done nursing. The heat generated by the laser can potentially cause harm to your baby.
Safe and Natural Options for Chloasma During Pregnancy and While Nursing
Now, for the good news! Here is our list of safe and natural skincare ingredients that can help reduce the appearance of chloasma during pregnancy or while nursing. We've also included product recommendations containing these hero ingredients:
Final Skin Care Recommendations for Chloasma-Prone Skin:
If you have chloasma-prone skin, it is important to take extra care of your skin to prevent the appearance of dark spots:
1. Cleanse gently: Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser to avoid irritating your skin.
2. Moisturize daily: Use a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for pregnancy and nursing to keep your skin hydrated.
3. Use sunscreen daily and avoid unnecessary sun exposure.
Chloasma is a common occurrence during pregnancy and while nursing, and usually disappears shortly after giving birth. Remember, if you are experiencing severe or persistent symptoms, it is important to see a doctor. For most cases, however, there are safe and natural treatment options that can help reduce the appearance of chloasma without harming your baby. By setting aside a few minutes to take extra care of your skin and following the tips and lifestyle changes outlined in this article, you can safely manage chloasma and maintain healthy, glowing skin during this exciting time in your life.
Read more
“As a couple, we have been saying, ‘We might adopt’ for six years. Finally being in the waiting pool for a baby feels unreal.” Kristy Gilger, Matrescence’s Social Media and Community Manager, sheds...
“My daughters were in the [foster] system for 908 days.” Educator, advocate, and single mama to two girls, Alisa Ronis shares her incredibly emotional and inspiring journey of adopting her daughte...
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before being published.
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.