Bump Beauty: What to Use on Sensitive Skin

Changes are inevitable during pregnancy – and your skin clearly shows the signs of a growing belly. If your skin has become more sensitive and you’re not sure of how to care for it, you’re not alone.  
 
For many women, skin sensitivity does reduce postpartum, says Izelle Louw, a somatologist and founder of Mommy Wellness, a spa that’s trained in providing spa and beauty treatments during pregnancy. “However, this can vary depending on individual factors such as hormonal balance, overall health and skincare routines,” she adds. 

“After childbirth, as hormone levels begin to stabilise, many women notice a decrease in skin sensitivity. It may take several weeks or months for the skin to fully return to its pre-pregnancy state. In some cases, particularly for those who are breastfeeding, skin sensitivity may persist for a while due to on-going hormonal influences.”

Izelle talks us through how to care for sensitive skin during pregnancy…

The signs of skin sensitivity

During pregnancy, you may notice your skin changing as your bump grows. Izelle says these are some of the more common signs of skin sensitivity:
 
- Redness and inflammation: Skin may appear red, blotchy or inflamed, especially after contact with certain products or environmental factors.
- Itching and discomfort: Many pregnant women experience itching, particularly on the abdomen as the skin stretches. This can also occur on other parts of the body due to increased sensitivity.
- Dryness and flakiness: Hormonal changes can lead to drier skin, which may become flaky and more prone to irritation.
- Breakouts or rashes: Some women develop acne or other types of rashes due to heightened skin sensitivity.
- Increased reactivity: Skin may react more strongly to products that were previously well-tolerated, leading to stinging, burning or other forms of discomfort.

Which parts of the body are usually affected by skin sensitivity?

During pregnancy, skin sensitivity can affect various parts of the body, but the most commonly affected areas include:
 
- Face: The facial skin, particularly around the cheeks, nose and forehead, is often more reactive due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes during pregnancy.
- Abdomen: As the skin stretches to accommodate the growing baby, the abdomen is prone to itching, dryness, and sensitivity.
- Breasts: The skin on the breasts can become more sensitive as the breasts grow is size, and the nipples may become tender or irritated.
- Thighs and hips: These areas might also experience sensitivity and itching as they stretch during pregnancy.
- Hands and feet: Due to fluid retention and swelling, the skin on the hands and feet can become more sensitive and prone to irritation.

Try these natural ingredients on sensitive skin

When in doubt, go natural! There’s a world of natural benefits that can be found in the tubs and tubes that line beauty shelves. Izelle shares the natural ingredients that are gentle and beneficial for sensitive skin, especially during pregnancy…

- Aloe vera: Known for its soothing and moisturising properties, aloe vera helps to calm irritated skin and reduce redness.
- Chamomile: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and calming effects, making it ideal for reducing skin irritation and sensitivity.
- Oatmeal: Colloidal oatmeal is excellent for soothing and protecting sensitive skin. It helps to lock in moisture and reduce itching and irritation.
- Cucumber extract: Cucumber is cooling and hydrating, which can help soothe sensitive skin and reduce puffiness.
- Shea butter: Rich in vitamins and fatty acids, shea butter deeply moisturises and nourishes the skin, helping to improve elasticity and reduce sensitivity.
- Calendula: Calendula is known for its healing properties and is effective in soothing inflamed and sensitive skin.

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