How to prevent and treat a pregnancy mask

How to prevent and treat a pregnancy mask

Did you know that pigmentation spots on your face are more likely to appear during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy? This is also known as a 'pregnancy mask'. Another ailment to add to the laundry list of pregnancy ailments, I hear you think. Unfortunately, it is. But besides the bad news, there is also good news: you can treat a pregnancy mask, and even prevent it. But how?

 

What is a pregnancy mask?

A mask of pregnancy, with a more difficult term, also called "melasma", means that dark brown pigment spots appear on your face during or after pregnancy. These spots usually appear on the forehead, cheekbones, chin, and around the eyes. Sometimes these spots also appear on the neck or arms.

 

Melasma can be labeled as a non-damaging pigmentary disorder. Often, though, a pregnancy mask is considered annoying or can even cause embarrassment because the hyperpigmentation is located on the face, where it is highly visible. Do you have a pregnancy mask? Let it be a consolation that as many as 70% of pregnant women suffer from it. Nothing to be ashamed of!

How does a mask form?

A pregnancy mask is caused by your body producing too much pigment, which gives the skin a dark color. Blame pregnancy hormones for this, because they increase the production of pigment. In addition, exposure to UV radiation, the use of certain cosmetics, and the use of medication for epilepsy can contribute to increased pigment production.

What can you do to prevent a pregnancy mask?

Prevention is better (and cheaper!) than treatment. That's why it's extra important to be careful with sun exposure during and even the first few months after your pregnancy. As much as you love the sun, try to prove your love for your skin by spending time in the shade or wearing a stylish cap or hat. In addition, don't forget to always carefully apply sunscreen with a high protection factor (preferably SPF50).

 

What can you do about a pregnancy mask? 

First of all, it is good to know that in most cases a pregnancy mask will disappear on its own a few months after pregnancy. You do not want to wait and would like to know what you can do in the meantime to reduce this pregnancy mask, apart from camouflaging it with makeup? Then here are some valuable tips:

 

  • Laser treatment. Laser treatments are becoming increasingly popular, and they can already be used to treat a pregnancy mask. A Picolaser is usually used for this, where the energy of the laser will break down the pigment. It is then up to your body to dispose of these pigment particles and clean them up. Doubt about what laser treatment can do for you? Plan an informal intake meeting at a skin institute in your area.

 

  • Chemical peel with fruit acids. A superficial chemical peel can also help remove a pregnancy mask. This peel will accelerate the process of cell division and renewal of the skin. Do not be alarmed, because after the peel you will notice that your skin will flake. This is a good thing, because there is a good chance that this will also peel off the excess pigment.

 

  • Anti-Pigment skin care. Besides a laser treatment and a chemical peel, there is another way to reduce a pregnancy mask that you can do yourself: good facial care. It is important to use a quality day and night cream daily that offers both UVA and UVB protection. Anti-pigment creams can help reduce the pigmentation spots on your face while also preventing their recurrence. Ingredients such as vitamins C and E can do their part in fading dark pigmentation spots because of their brightening effects. Tip: Before buying an anti-pigment cream, always check if it is suitable for pregnant women.

 

 

  • Gentle cleanser or balm. Avoid skin care products that irritate your skin, as this can exacerbate pigmentation. Instead, choose a gentle cleansing product that you can use both in the morning and at night when cleansing your skin.

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