Skin Talk: Pregnancy & Your Skin

May 29, 2025 The Blog

Let’s break down what’s really happening to your pregnancy skin, and how to care for it.

Hey you, it’s Giselle (Lead Esthetician at SG).

If you're expecting (or postpartum), you’ve probably noticed your skin changing. Let’s talk about what’s really going on, and how to support your skin naturally, safely & effectively.

So... What’s Actually Happening To Your Skin?

During the trimesters of pregnancy, there’s a multitude of changes that affect the way your skin looks and feels. Hormonal fluctuations, circulatory changes in the blood vessels, immune system changes within the lymphatic system, and even cardiovascular shifts are constantly in motion. These changes can continue during postpartum.

HORMONAL FLUCTUATIONS & ACNE

Hormonal changes are primarily responsible for changes in oil (sebum) production, which can increase the likelihood of acne during & after pregnancy. Fluctuations in progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, and other androgens can lead to excess sebum, which clogs pores and forms comedones, resulting in inflammatory acne. This is most common in the first trimester but can happen anytime.

PIGMENTATION CHANGE & MELASMA

Rising levels of estrogen and progesterone can also lead to melasma, a form of hormonal hyperpigmentation that appears as darker, blotchy patches, often symmetrically on the face. Melasma typically arises in the third trimester but varies from person to person. It’s caused by stimulated melanin production from melanocytes & it differs from typical hyperpigmentation. Sun exposure and genetics can also contribute to melasma development.

CARDIOVASCULAR SHIFTS & CIRCULATION

Cardiovascular changes also play a role in skin, increased blood circulation may cause skin flushing, redness, blotchiness, or even trigger rosacea. These changes can also lead to increased water retention, which may cause a "puffy" or swollen appearance in the face as the baby develops.

IMMUNE SENSITIVITY & SKIN REACTIVITY

As the immune system adapts, skin may become more sensitive or reactive. It’s best to keep skincare routines simple and supportive to avoid irritation.

Ingredients To Avoid While Pregnant:

Of course, it’s always best to talk to your primary doctor, but these are some widely known and utilized ingredients that we recommend avoiding during pregnancy:

RETINOL / VITAMIN A: High levels may affect fetal development. Not all forms are created equal; ask your doctor and esthetician about which formula works best for you.
SALICYLIC ACID: Ingredients containing salicylic acid are generally not recommended, however the concentration of the ingredients definitely matters. Topical use of low concentration salicylic acids are generally considered safe.

GENTLE ALTERNATIVES: Lactic acid and/or glycolic acid (under 10%) can help with breakouts + dullness while staying pregnancy-safe.

What You Can Use (And Love):

There are still plenty of powerful, pregnancy-safe ingredients I recommend:

Vitamin C
Hyaluronic Acid
Ceramides
Peptides
Kojic Acid

All help brighten, hydrate, or strengthen your skin barrier without irritation.

Are Facials Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes! Shop Good facials are 100% pregnancy safe due to our amazing Botnia back bar! All of our facials can be customized to safely omit any contraindicative ingredients & boosters. PLUS, our Spa beds can be propped up (hello, comfort!) to accommodate growing bellies, so as long as you’re comfortable being upright, you’re good to go!

AVOID: Buccal Massage, Face Rolling, High Frequency, Microcurrent, and Mesotherapy.

(We wouldn’t recommend these due to the positioning required to effectively and correctly perform the service.)

Giselle’s Top Picks for Pregnancy Skin:

FACIAL: The Natural Lift is my favorite facial for expecting clients!! It’s incredibly relaxing, soothing, and designed to help alleviate facial puffiness and stagnant circulation.

BOOSTERS I LOVE: Extended Massage, Oxygen Booster, and Gua Sha. (They’re gentle yet powerful add-ons that help your skin feel refreshed and revitalized!)

PRODUCTS I RECOMMEND:

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