Some women find their skin improves during pregnancy while others acquire a number of skin-related problems. Here are some of the more common pregnancy skin complaints:



Mask of pregnancy (chloasma):
Some women experience a darkening of the skin on their face because of increased levels of estrogen and progesterone which produce more melanin (skin pigment). It is a butterfly-shaped darkened area that extends around the eyes and across the nose and cheeks. Be sure to use a sunblock with at least an SPF of 15 when you are outdoors to protect your skin which can be worsened by exposure to sunlight.



Increased pigmentation:
Ninety percent of women experience some form of skin pigmentation. The darkening occurs on the nipples or areola (the area around the nipples), on the perineum and on the line that runs from the navel to the pubic bone (the linea nigra).



Changes to moles:
Some find their moles darken or grow bigger. Note: because these changes can also be indicative of cancer, it is advisable to check with your doctor.



Red and itchy palms and soles:

Some women find their palms and soles tend to itch a lot. These can be relieved greatly by applying a moisturizing cream.



Skin tags:

Some women develop skin tags - small loose growths of skin under the arms or breasts. These are painless and usually disappear after your baby arrives. If they persist, you can have them removed through laser therapy.



Rashes:

Some women experience a heat rash. The best way to deal with this is to apply corn starch instead of perfumed talc or baby powders on the affected areas after bathing and to keep the skin cool and dry.



Acne:

Some women experience a skin break out. In severe situations, the skin breaks out on the back, chest, shoulders, and all over the sides of the face, forehead and chin. The skin remains pimply throughout pregnancy, quite contrary to those who experience the much lauded maternal glow of pregnancy.