How to Take Care of Your Body and Skin – Skincare for Hormonal Changes

Reviewed by: Dr. Fatimah Khan

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5 min read

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Apr 29, 2025

Congratulations, you are in early pregnancy! Your body is doing something truly amazing at the moment—growing a new life. But let's get real: although it's great, it's also a lot. One of the most significant changes you may already be experiencing is how your skin and body are responding to all those pregnancy hormones.

Acne, itchiness, dark spots, oiliness, dryness—your skin might be doing things you’ve never experienced before. Don’t worry. It’s all part of the journey, and there are safe, gentle ways to care for your changing body and feel more confident and comfortable.

What’s Happening to Your Skin between 6 and 10 week?

During weeks 6 through 10, your body is getting used to an infusion of hormones, particularly estrogen, progesterone, and hCG. This transformation can result in:

  • Acne and greasy skin (so long, pregnancy acne!)
  • Darkening skin (such as the line along your belly referred to as linea nigra or freckles on your face)
  • Dryness or itchiness
  • Pliable, tender skin, particularly around your stomach, hips, and breasts

This might feel frustrating, especially if you’ve always had a solid skincare routine that’s now suddenly not working the same way. But don’t worry—there are simple ways to support your skin.

Safe Skincare Tips for Pregnant Mamas

Go Gentle

Now’s the time to treat your skin with kindness. Choose fragrance-free, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic skincare products. Harsh scrubs or strong anti-aging products can irritate your now-sensitive skin.

Look for labels that say:

  • “Pregnancy-safe”
  • “Dermatologist-tested”
  • "No parabens or phthalates"

Be Cautious of Toxic Ingredients

Certain popular skincare ingredients are not pregnancy-safe, particularly in the first trimester.

Steer clear of:

  • Retinoids/Retinol (commonly used in anti-aging creams)
  • Salicylic acid in high concentrations (used in acne treatments)
  • Hydroquinone (skin lightening)
  • Essential oils (some are fine, but many are not safe in early pregnancy)

If unsure, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before trying new products.

Hydrate Inside and Out

Drink plenty of water—it helps your skin stay plump and clear. Pair that with a light, pregnancy-safe moisturizer to lock in hydration. This is especially helpful if you’re dealing with dry patches or itchy belly skin.

For itchy skin, try using natural oils like:

  • Sweet almond oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Shea butter
  • Apply them after a shower to help seal in moisture.

Use Sunscreen Daily

Pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. You’re more likely to develop melasma, also known as the “pregnancy mask”—dark patches on your cheeks or forehead.

Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy. Look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—they’re safe for pregnancy and less likely to irritate.

Soothe Acne the Safe Way

If you’re suddenly breaking out, don’t stress. This is super common in early pregnancy. Switch to a gentle, oil-free cleanser and avoid picking at pimples (it can cause scarring).

  • Instead of harsh acne treatments, look for:
  • Witch hazel
  • Azelaic acid
  • Tea tree oil (in small amounts and diluted)

Listen to Your Body

Pregnancy is a time to slow down and listen to what your body is asking for. This is true for rest, movement, and how you care for your skin. If something is worsening your skin or making you uncomfortable, don't hesitate to cut it out and seek advice.

Your skin might be changing, but it's also doing something amazing—stretching and realigning to hold your baby. That's worth love and care.

Final Thoughts

Throughout these initial weeks, your skin will surprise you with new issues, but it's all you can manage. Be easy on yourself. Emphasize water, safeguarding, and minimalism. You're not merely building a baby—you're developing as well, mama.

Take it one day (and one stretch mark) at a time. You're doing an amazing job!

References:

  1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) – "Skin Conditions During Pregnancy" https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy​
  2. BabyCenter – "Safe Skin Care During Pregnancy" https://www.babycenter.com/pregnancy/your-life/safe-skin-care-during-pregnancy_1490031​
  3. GoodRx – "What Skin Care Products Are Safe to Use During Pregnancy?" https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/pregnancy/skincare-product-safety