Being a mother is one of the most beautiful experiences in the world, but the side effects on the skin after giving birth are less so. After nine months of pregnancy, tiredness and hormonal changes are responsible for a more sensitive, dull and dry skin. And more often than not, you have to deal with the appearance of stretch marks on your tummy as the skin returns to its original place after having a baby. Fortunately, nowadays there are creams and care products that can help us to treat the skin after childbirth.
How do hormones affect the skin after childbirth?
According to dermatologists, in the first few months after giving birth, the skin needs time to adapt and recover. Progesterone and oestrogen levels fall, causing dryness, loss of firmness and density of the skin, and a duller skin tone than usual. Sometimes it is common to have more dark circles under the eyes or a paler complexion, but in addition to this, our body not only has to get used to a hormonal disruption, but also to a new rhythm of life, that of the baby.
Another effect of hormonal changes is hair loss. During pregnancy, the increase in oestrogen causes hair to grow faster, but after childbirth, these hormones gradually return to normal levels again, and this is when hair loss occurs during the postpartum period.
What is the postpartum period? It is the first six weeks after giving birth, during which the woman's body undergoes a series of hormonal changes that affect her physically and emotionally.
What skin care should I follow in the postpartum period?
The side effects caused by hormonal changes and fatigue can be solved if we follow a good skin care routine, we tell you about it.
- A good Weekly exfoliation is essential to prepare the skin before moisturising. However, we recommend using gentle, non-abrasive products, as the skin is more sensitive and loses density, you want to know more about how to exfoliate your skin?
- The hydration is key to preventing the appearance of unsightly stretch marks. and avoid flaccidity in the abdomen. It's time to continue using the anti-stretch mark cream you used during pregnancy, now more than ever! And above all, apply plenty of moisturiser all over your body every time you get out of the shower. When it comes to moisturising the skin after childbirth, it is best to use cosmetic products that contain natural ingredients such as rosehip or the argan oil, ideal for this situation.
The rosehip is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and essential oils. such as Omega 3. In addition, Vitamin C helps stimulate the production of collagen, a substance that contributes to increased firmness and counteracts the signs of ageing.. Creams or oil will help you to combat sagging of the abdomen. The benefits of rosehip for scars are many, including smoothing out the appearance of scar in case of caesarean section.
Argan oil is a natural product made by pressing the almonds extracted from the nuts of the Argan tree. Due to its high in vitamin E and essential fatty acids provides moisture, firmness and revitalises the skin. Therefore, we recommend it to treat stretch marks. Apply it on the abdomen with a gentle massage and you will intensify its effects.
- The appearance of dark circles under the eyes is inevitable with the new routine brought on by the arrival of the baby at home. The best way to treat them is with decongestants such as caffeine or vitamin C. An ice effect roll-on for the eye area with caffeine will be effective in concealing those unsightly bags and dark circles under the eyes. Cover dark circles under the eyes with a little concealer or highlighter before you leave the house and you're sure to feel more confident. Goodbye dark circles!
- We must not forget to take care of ourselves on the inside either. External skin care is necessary, but a good diet is essential. Experts recommend drink plenty of water if you want to keep your skin hydratedand increase your intake of fruit and vegetables for extra nutrition. The antioxidants and vitamins provided by vegetables stimulate collagen production in the body, which is essential for skin recovery after childbirth, both on the body and face. Omega 3 also has beneficial properties that will help you to achieve more luminous and nourished skin. You can find this fatty acid in cereals and fish such as salmon.
After childbirth it is time to take better care of ourselves than ever, especially during the first few months, although some specialists say that recovery can take up to a year.
Remember to moisturise your skin and maintain a good diet, especially during this period. Being beautiful and in shape after childbirth is possible if you dedicate some pampering and care to yourself every day, don't leave it for later.
