Winter skincare tips for pregnant women – from an expert

Prioritise hydration and barrier repair

Dry, itchy skin is one of the most common winter complaints during pregnancy. According to Durban-based dermatologist Dr Cebi Sibisi, pregnancy hormones can weaken the skin barrier, making skin more prone to dryness, sensitivity and irritation during colder months. Many pregnant women also experience eczema flare-ups, peeling hands and chapped lips in winter. To help keep skin hydrated and protected, focus on barrier-supporting ingredients. “Look for ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, panthenol and petrolatum-based moisturisers,” advises Dr Sibisi. 

Beauty tip: pay extra attention to areas like the hands, elbows, belly and lips, which tend to become especially dry in winter. Keep a nourishing hand cream and lip balm nearby to help prevent cracking and irritation throughout the day.

Avoid long, hot showers

While a steaming hot shower may feel comforting on a cold winter morning, it can strip the skin of its natural oils and worsen dryness and sensitivity. “Take short, lukewarm showers, not hot ones,” says Dr Sibisi. Hot water can compromise the skin barrier, leaving skin more prone to itching, flaking and irritation, particularly during pregnancy when skin is already more reactive. Instead, opt for shorter showers with lukewarm water and gentle, soap-free cleansers that won’t dry out the skin further. Pat skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing aggressively, then immediately apply a rich moisturiser while your skin is still slightly damp to help seal in hydration.

Keep your skincare routine simple and gentle

Pregnancy is not the time for harsh exfoliants or strong active ingredients or aggressive treatments, especially during winter when skin sensitivity is heightened. “Pregnant women should generally avoid retinoids, hydroquinone and exfoliants or peels unless specifically advised by your doctor, as these can worsen winter dryness and irritation,” explains Dr Sibisi. Instead, stick to a simple, gentle routine focused on cleansing, moisturising and protecting the skin barrier. Overloading the skin with too many products can increase irritation and sensitivity. Dr Sibisi also notes that most in-salon treatments are not recommended during pregnancy because their safety has not been fully established. 

Beauty tip: if you’re unsure whether a product is pregnancy-safe, consult your dermatologist or healthcare provider before introducing it into your routine.

Never skip sunscreen

Even during winter, daily sun protection remains essential, especially because pregnancy can trigger pigmentation conditions such as melasma. “Wear sunscreen daily, even indoors,” advises Dr Sibisi. UV rays can still penetrate through clouds and windows, contributing to pigmentation and premature skin ageing. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are generally considered excellent pregnancy-safe options. These formulas sit on top of the skin and provide broad-spectrum protection without causing unnecessary irritation. Apply sunscreen every morning as the final step in your skincare routine, and reapply if you spend an extended period outdoors.

Take note: while mild dryness and sensitivity are common during pregnancy, severe itching, painful rashes or persistent irritation should never be ignored. “Seek medical advice for severe itching or a persistent rash,” says Dr Sibisi.

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