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Everyone always talks about how “glowing” your skin looks during pregnancy – and while there is some truth to that due to increased blood flow and oil production, nobody talks about how dry and itchy your skin can also become.
I’ll be the first to admit that my skin is NOT perfect during pregnancy. I developed melasma last pregnancy and it continued into my first year postpartum.
This pregnancy, I’ve definitely noticed some minor eczema on my face and scalp line appearing, especially on days when I’m not diligent about my hydration, so I’ve been extra care conscientious about sticking to my skincare routine.
While I am NOT a skin expert, I’m a pelvic floor physical therapist, I do work closely with my friend and nurse practitioner, Clementine Barnette, over at Skin Pharm to ensure my skincare routine meets my needs during pregnancy. She has also verified that my entire routine (using all Skin Pharm products) is pregnancy friendly though she always recommends reaching out to your individual provider if you have any questions or concerns.
Regarding my skincare for my belly, I used a generic belly oil last pregnancy and did not have any stretch marks develop, however I will be the first to state that stretch marks are largely influenced by genetics, diet and skin hydration status. While I cannot control my genetics, I can control my diet and skin hydration, so I focus on those two things!
I stumbled upon the company, Nemah, after quite a few of my local Nashville patients started using it and had wonderful results. I love that both Nemah and Skin Pharm are female-founded businesses, both here in Nashville, because shopping from small businesses is incredibly important to me. Plus, I also love the transparency of their ingredients – not something that is easy to come by these days with large companies.
Here are my routines for both my belly and face – hope this helps!
I spend just 5 minutes every night performing belly massage (started midway through the 1st trimester) using first the Revitalizing Stretch Mark Cream and then the Nourishing Belly Oil. Make sure to use code DRMAEHUGHES for 15% off all Nemah products!
1. Revitalizing Stretch Mark Cream
While I am still pregnant and cannot give a true review on its ability to reduce stretch mark appearance, I do love the consistency of it as well as the ingredients to relieve dry and itchy skin!
Use code DRMAEHUGHES for 15% off!
I love how this oil absorbs really well and does not leave you feeling sticky!
Use code DRMAEHUGHES for 15% off!
I use a combination of these products from Skin Pharm for both my morning and nightly routine. I’ve been using some variation of this routine for the last 5 years and my skin has NEVER looked better. Honestly, I never believed in medical-grade skincare until I started going to Skin Pharm. The entire routine is pregnancy-friendly.
I use this both in the morning and during my shower at night!
4. Crystal Clear Clarifying Pads
I use these pads 2-3x per week either in the morning or at night when my skin is feeling extra dry or if I’m experiencing any breakouts. A true hero product.
5. Youth Serum
If I could afford to bathe in this stuff I would. It keeps my skin hydrated and plump without feeling oily. I’m obsessed and use it both in the morning and at night.
6. High Beam
I use this moisturizer in the morning and at night and love how it doesn’t feel too thick or sticky.
With this tinted SPF I feel like I always have a glow. I do not apply a full face of foundation, so I consider this my makeup and apply it in the morning.
8. Sculpt Set
I do not use the eye sculpt daily (though I probably should), but if I can remember to apply it 2-3x per week with the eye patches then that is a good week. I like to store the eye patches in the fridge and then apply them right after I’ve applied the eye sculpt for an ultimate spa experience.
9. Clay Time
I try to use this at least 1x per week for just a complexion overhaul and to treat myself. If I didn’t have a toddler running around, I’d try to fit this in 2-3x per week at night.
I’ll be completely honest, you can use all of the fancy skincare products in the world, but if you are dehydrated and depleted of minerals and electrolytes – then you are fighting an uphill battle. Hydrated skin starts with your internal hydration and I cannot recommend these electrolyte packs enough. Not too sweet and not too salty.
11. Water Bottle
Try consuming at least 3 of these per day of water to meet your increased water demands during pregnancy. Your skin and pelvic floor will thank you!