Taking time for yourself can seem like a forgotten luxury when you’re a new mom, but it's also important to address the changes your skin is going through during this phase. “Not only does your life shift dramatically as you take on the role of a mother, but your body also experiences significant changes,” says Dr Kiran Sethi, founder of ISYA Aesthetics. “This includes your hormones, which can go haywire during the postpartum period.”
While it’s understandable that balancing this new role and maintaining healthy skin can be challenging, Dr Sethi advises new moms to be patient and kind to themselves—and to give their body the time it needs to recover. Ahead, she shares some general changes you can expect your skin to go through as well as the best skincare routine for new moms.
How does a woman’s skin change after delivery?
Some common postpartum skincare issues include acne, pigmentation and hair loss. “Known as postpartum alopecia, this hair loss is quite common and frustrating. Stretch marks, known as striae, are also common during or after pregnancy. These issues are often a result of hormonal changes, which continue after delivery. It’s important to address these concerns with a suitable skincare routine and a healthy diet,” she recommends.
Try this timesaving routine if you’re a new mom
For starters, Dr Sethi cautions that your old skincare routine will likely be ineffective at this period. “I suggest you keep the new one as simple as possible—the focus needs to be on using fewer, more gentle products,” she tells us. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
- Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser to wash your face twice daily.
- Apply a moisturiser suitable for your skin type to keep the skin hydrated.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, every day, as sun exposure can worsen pigmentation issues.
- Targeted treatments are often counted among the best skincare for new moms, but it’s important to consult a physician for any specific concern.
- If you wear makeup, opt for light, breathable formulas that won’t clog your pores.
- Apart from this, getting enough sleep can allow your skin to repair and regenerate.
- Eating a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals can support skin health. If acne is a concern, it’s advisable to avoid dairy and high glycemic foods, as they can exacerbate skin issues.
Skincare precautions to observe as a new mom
You have the best skincare products for new moms on lock, but it also helps to consider what to avoid during this time. Dr Sethi shares her best skincare tips to see you through this period:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
- Manage stress: Stress can worsen skin conditions, so try to find ways to relax and unwind. Common solutions include post-partum yoga or meditation as well as going for online therapy, courses on baby sleep cycles and so on.
- Avoid harsh ingredients: Steer clear of skincare products containing harsh chemicals or fragrances that could irritate your skin. Home remedies can sometimes worsen skin conditions, so use caution. Consulting a physician is crucial for personalised advice. Many ingredients you can’t use in your pregnancy (like retinol!) may not be kosher while you’re breastfeeding too, so keep that in mind when you pick your formulas.
- Have patience: It’s normal for your skin to take some time to adjust during the post-partum period, so be patient with your skincare routine.
- Be vigilant: Keep your ingredient list as simple as possible and steer clear of retinoids and hydroquinone. If you don’t recognise a word or have not used it before, it’s best to not try now—unless specified by your dermatologist.
