Were you expecting that "pregnancy glow"? Few expectant moms get that lucky — and many experience at least a few skin changes, while others are hit with just about every skin problem in the book.

When do skin changes during pregnancy start?

It depends. Many women experience the varied collection of skin peculiarities that crop up during pregnancy — including rashes, redness, acne, discolorations and other delightful (not!) eruptions — as early as the first trimester, while others don't notice skin changes until the second or third trimester. But they're so common that it would be unusual if you didn't experience one of them at any time during your pregnancy.

And yep, your skin may look worse for the wear as your pregnancy progresses. Fortunately, whether it's a flashback to your baby days (with heat rash) or to your junior high days (with pimples and a greasy shine), just about all your skin symptoms will be a thing of the past within weeks of delivery. So be patient!

What causes skin changes during pregnancy?

It's largely those pregnancy hormones at work yet again, causing your pores to secrete excess oil, making you vulnerable to heat rash and visiting discolorations on your face, legs, palms and soles.[1] Add to that your suppressed immunity (to protect your baby) and stretched blood vessels and you have a recipe for surface inflammation.

Some skin changes you might notice during pregnancy include:

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What can I do about skin changes when I'm pregnant?

Though your suddenly baby or teen throwback skin may have you feeling powerless against those pregnancy hormones again, there are things you can do about any skin changes you're experiencing while you're pregnant:

  • Eat healthfully. A well-balanced pregnancy diet contains the right balance of nutrients to keep your skin looking as good as it can under the circumstances.
  • Drink enough water and other fluids every day. Drinking lots of water will keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
  • If pimples are your problem, wash your face two to three times a day with a thorough but gentle cleanser. Harsh ones will only leave skin more open to irritation. Exfoliate very gently too, around once a week, and finish off with an oil-free moisturizer. Overly stripped skin is more prone to breakouts.
  • Look for the words "noncomedogenic" and "unscented" when you're buying makeup and skin-care products. "Oil-free" will be less likely to add excess oils and clog up pores — good if your skin is on the oilier side to begin with. But if your skin is dry, you'll do best to choose moisturizing products.
  • If you see a dermatologist, always tell him or her that you're expecting. Some drugs commonly used to treat acne, like isotretinoin and Retin-A, should not be used while you're pregnant and certain ingredients in some acne products are also off-limits.[2]
  • Stick to short showers — which is good training for actual motherhood — in warm, not hot, water, and use a mild cleanser. Taking too many baths can strip your skin of its moisture. For very dry skin, try a moisturizer or put a warm-mist humidifier in your room.
  • For eczema, low-dose cortisone creams are usually safe, but talk to your practitioner and ask if he or she has recommendations.
  • For redness on the palms of your hands, sit tight. This condition disappears after you give birth. But definitely check in with your doctor just to make sure it's normal.
  • Skin tags usually appear during pregnancy and disappear after delivery. If they don't, a dermatologist can remove them in a flash.
  • For heat rash, stay cool. Sprinkle on a bit of cornstarch after a shower and avoid tight or overly warm clothing. Dress in layers so you can peel down if you get too warm.
  • For PUPPP, show any marks or rashes to your practitioner. They usually go away after delivery, but he or she might prescribe medication.

Can I prevent skin changes during pregnancy?

Not really, but you can stock up on skin creams — and a good concealer — before they erupt so you feel more confident.

When can I expect my skin to go back to normal?

Many of your skin changes will subside at some point during pregnancy or right after delivery. Some, like skin tags, may be permanent. Talk to a dermatologist if these really bother you.