Pregnancy handbook: When pregnant mother has dry flaky skin problem

Many pregnant mothers often complain about dry peeling skin and lack of aesthetics. On the other hand, dry skin is also the cause of premature aging, especially when hormonal changes make dry skin more tight.

Pregnancy is the period when you need to receive good physical and mental care. This is also the time when the body of the pregnant mother appears many changes. Most pregnant women have brighter skin than before thanks to the action of pregnancy hormones . The fluctuation of hormones causes the body to retain more water, resulting in visibly brighter skin.

However, these hormones are responsible for dry flaky skin. Although not a problem to worry about, this situation will make pregnant mothers uncomfortable as well as lack of confidence in communicating. aFamilyToday Health will help you better understand why you get dry skin during pregnancy!

Is it normal for dry flaky skin during pregnancy?

The changes in pregnancy hormones can bring about many changes to the body, one of which is dry flaky skin. The reason is that the hormonal change process will make the skin lose its elasticity and moisture, combined with the skin stretching to adapt to the development of the fetus in the womb.

All of these can lead to dry, red, itchy skin. In some cases, flaky patches appear as well. The above symptoms are completely normal and can be easily treated. Therefore, you do not need to worry too much. If the symptoms become more severe, you should seek immediate treatment with a dermatologist.

At what stage of pregnancy does dry flaky skin usually occur?

Usually, pregnant women experience dry skin in the first month of pregnancy or in the first trimester . In some subjects, this dry skin can sometimes last up to the third trimester . The neck, hands, and skin around the abdomen are the most susceptible.

In addition, skin areas such as elbows, knees, and heels can also be dry. Some pregnant mothers also reported itchy symptoms in the thighs, chest and arms.

Find the cause that causes dry skin during pregnancy

As mentioned, the main cause of pregnant women having dry flaky skin is hormonal changes. This causes the skin to lose its elasticity as well as its natural oils. However, it's not just the hormone that is responsible for dry skin, but a lot of other factors also contribute to the condition. Some of them include:

During pregnancy, the mother's body needs more water to meet the needs of the developing fetus. If pregnant women do not drink enough water, the risk of dry skin may occur.

Pregnancy hormones can stimulate oil glands to increase secretion even more, leading to acne . Oily oils appear on the skin so you frequently wash your face, thus accidentally drying your skin.

Dry flaky skin during pregnancy can also be caused by excessive stress .

Certain dietary changes during pregnancy also affect skin elasticity.

Complications can be encountered when pregnant mothers have dry skin

Dry skin is often accompanied by itching. Repeated scratching can lead to abrasions in the skin, possibly even infection or scar formation.

In cases where pregnant women have had a history of eczema , dry skin can cause the eczema to recur. Severe and widespread dryness requires medical intervention.

Tips for dealing with dry peeling skin during pregnancy

Some of the following remedies are very effective in dealing with dry skin:

Use products with mild cleansers to clean your skin instead of products containing soap. Remember to pat the skin after washing it instead of rubbing it.

Some skin creams like calamine, moisturizing wax, vitamin E and ceramides work to soothe and moisturize dry skin. However, pregnant mothers should consult a doctor before use.

If you are having trouble with dry flaky skin, it is advisable that you avoid wearing synthetic fibers clothes as they trap heat and make the skin drier. Instead, use clothes made of cotton.

Avoid scratching as much as possible to avoid damaging the skin.

Avoid swimming when skin is dry, as chlorinated water in pools can make skin conditions worse.

How can i prevent dry flaky skin during pregnancy?

Prevention is better than cure, pregnant mothers can prevent dry skin by the following simple ways:

Drink plenty of water. Avoid dehydrating the body with caffeinated beverages such as tea, coffee, energy drinks, soda ... Safe choices are fruit juices, ginger tea.

Add foods with a high water content such as green vegetables, watermelon, and soups. In addition, a healthy, well-balanced diet is essential for healthy skin.

Foods like olive oil, nuts and avocados can promote healthier skin.

Use a natural moisturizing mask to hydrate the skin, making the skin look soft and fresh.

Keeping a healthy lifestyle and active by walking, exercising gently also very beneficial for the skin.

Minimize stress during pregnancy by doing meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and listening to soft music to relax.

Use a sunscreen with the right SPF to limit the harmful effects of UV rays.

Pregnant mothers should bathe with warm water to remove natural oils to help balance the skin.

Apply moisturizer or lotion right after bathing to keep skin moisturized. It is best to choose products with natural ingredients.

Use a humidifier placed in the room at night to keep the space moist.

When to consult a doctor?

Dry flaky skin during pregnancy can be treated without much difficulty. Though not a health hazard, dry or flaky skin can be uncomfortable and annoying. In certain situations, you should see your doctor right away:

In case of pregnant mother with eczema or allergic dermatitis .

If pregnant women have folliculitis, swelling and pain are severe.

If cellulitis is a type of infection caused by bacteria.

Dry, chapped skin or cracks are getting worse.

The dry skin from the abdomen spreads to other areas of the body such as the arms and legs and scratches appear. This could be a sign of pregnancy urticaria (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques - PUPP).

Light-colored urine and stools can be a warning sign of problems with cholestasis during pregnancy (ICP), a pregnancy-related liver disorder affecting bile secretion. ICP poses a danger to an unborn baby as it can lead to premature birth or stillbirth .

Severe itching and dry skin especially on the palms of the hands and feet.

Dry flaky skin is normal and not dangerous. Most people go away on their own right after giving birth. Hope that the information aFamilyToday Health brings will help you have a healthy pregnancy.