WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Skin discoloration

Skin discoloration
Often known as “pregnancy mask”, skin discoloration refers to patches or areas of skin that appear to be darker than usual.

It might look like tan patches, red spots or a blackish pattern. It is caused by hormonal changes in the body.
Juliette Seblon
Midwife for 8+ years
Is it normal?
It is a common yet worrisome symptom for many expecting mothers. It can happen anytime during pregnancy, but it is most common during the second and third trimesters. Some women find their skin discoloration extends to their face, belly, and nipples, while some experience it all over their body. 

Though this can be an unsettling cause of concern for many expectant mothers, it does not pose any harm to you or your baby. Doctors typically recommend that women avoid worrying and instead embrace the beautiful changes that come along with pregnancy. 

With time, these patches will eventually lighten and fade away after giving birth.
Prevent and care
While there's not much you can do to prevent hormonal fluctuations, here are a few smart steps you can take to protect your skin from damaging UV rays that may make skin changes more noticeable.
  • Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF daily to protect against UV rays. 
  • Use sun-protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses when outdoors. 
  • Consider using skin care products containing ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C to mitigate discoloration.
Always check in with your practitioner about any skin changes you notice just to be safe. But generally skin discoloration, particularly redness on the hands and soles of your feet, is a normal part of pregnancy.
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
When to consult?
It’s important to know that a skin color change is not a cause for alarm. However, in some rare cases, it can be a symptom of an underlying condition like PUPPP or cholestasis. 

If you find that it is causing you extreme discomfort or intensifying, seeking medical attention from your care provider can alleviate your worries and ensure that everything is progressing as it should.
Top Asked Questions
Why does hormonal change lead to skin discoloration during pregnancy, and when is it most common?

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly heightened estrogen levels, stimulate melanin production and are most common during the second and third trimesters.

Are there specific skincare products to address skin discoloration during pregnancy?

Some products containing niacinamide or vitamin C have shown effectiveness in reducing skin discoloration when used as part of a daily skincare routine.

Can I undergo treatments like chemical peels for skin discoloration during pregnancy?

It's generally advisable to avoid aggressive treatments during pregnancy. Consult with a dermatologist for safe and specific recommendations.

View Sources
T
Tay
23 Jun 2023

Did anyone else experience like dark patches around their nose or mouth while pregnant? It has been here around my mouth since I found out i was pregnant back in April ‼️ I already suffered from hyperpigmentation but this is just horrible ! It doesn’t hurt its just skin discoloration to the max😫😫😫😫

1 comments
C
Cintya
Yes it happens to alot of pregnant girls i believe it goes away after the baby but u have to take care of it ....also u can put baby milk on ur face when u start milking
27 Mar 2024

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M
Mia
18 Jun 2023

Poll Time! #2 What products works best for your face if you discoloration? If u have a product you love, comment below

1 comments
🕸
🕸💀⛓ Trei ⛓ 🌹🦇
Turmeric and jojoba oil. I've been using this Lemon-Turmeric soap and some jojoba oil. The soap's been working great on dark spots on my face and stretch marks on my legs. Got it from https://thesolarholistics.com/products/lemon-tumeric?variant=40251493613740 The reviews were really good on FB so I ordered a couple bars one day. So far so good. It's legit. And the jojoba works great because of its high vitamin E content.
27 Mar 2024

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M
Meka
3 May 2023

Ladies, I'm noticing my chest and upper back having dark eczema looking patches. Never had this before. Has anyone else experience skin discoloration?

3 comments
S
Si Cherie
My face & hands have been doing the same. I started exfoliating every few days & staying moisturized with olive oil or vitamin E & lotion. I add triple antibiotic sometimes as well.
27 Mar 2024

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M
Mari
I've experienced eczema with every pregnancy. Your immune system is lowered so naturally you have more outbreaks. I get one on my wrist specifically everytime for pretty much the whole pregnancy.
27 Mar 2024

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M
Mia
3 Oct 2022

Question❓❓❔❔ What oil or lotion do yall use for discoloration? Those summer mosquitoes tore my feet and legs up 😂

1 comments
A
Alicia🍂🎃🌙
Pure / unrefined cocoa butter
27 Mar 2024

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