I remember the first few signs of pregnancy on my skin, pigmentation on chest, belly and legs. Bloating due to water retention made the skin on the tummy more itchy and while some women are lucky to get the glow in pregnancy, I was actually losing color. Winter made it worse, as dryness makes skin more itchy.

We have today collaborated with Dr. Kiran Coehlo, Celebrity Gynecologist, to bring you some simple tips to keep skincare woes at bay;

Gentle cleansing

While you may be lazy to go and wash your face with cold water this winter, it is extremely important to remove your make-up well before you call it a day! Opt for a cleanser that removes all of your makeup especially near the eyes as a lot of eye liner and mascara can be left behind even after proper washing. A good cleanser leaves your skin non-irritated without redness or after wash tightness.

Moisturizing

Achieving the mythical glow complexion of pregnancy is not all that difficult. Bid farewell to tired pasty skin by moisturizing your skin at least once a day. Not only will it keep your skin nice and plump but may also help reduce signs of ageing.

Application of moisturizers and oils containing Vitamin E, Lavender, Calendula and Rosemary such as Bio Oil as it helps repair damaged skin tissue that causes stretch marks. The same can be used after pregnancy also on the abdomen breast to reduce stretch marks.

Pregnancy Acne

Even if it’s been years since you’ve seen a zit, don’t be surprised if pregnancy brings out a bumper crop, particularly around your mouth and chin. What you can try, are sulphur-based topical products, as well as those containing glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acids.

Pedicures

While nobody will actually look down and notice your feet, the leg and foot massage you receive during a pedicure is beneficial for your circulation. Additionally, the pampering will pump up your mood and improve your whole pregnancy attitude.

Moderate exercising

It is of upmost importance to exercise in moderation for a healthy pregnancy. It will improve your blood circulation, reduce back pain and joint pain that escalates during winter. Try a mix of yoga, pilates and low-impact cardio that does not cause too much exertion. Expecting moms should get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week (half-hour a day for five days). Working out regularly helps you maintain a healthy weight which helps reduce stretch marks and makes it easier to shed your pregnancy weight after the delivery. Exercising will also brighten up your mood and chase away the winter blues and pregnancy mood swings. I didn’t exercise for my first pregnancy and the labor to delivery time was over 12 hours. For my second pregnancy, however I was exercising throughout and the labor to delivery time was less than two hours, also returning to my original weight was much easier for the second time around.

Go Lukewarm

Everyone enjoys a long, hot bubble bath for at least 20 minutes when they’ve been out in the cold, but long exposure to hot water can strip moisture from hair and skin- leading to dry skin and itchy scalp. It can also make you dizzy when you stand up.

Pregnant women should especially avoid saunas and hot tubs as it heats up the core. The heat makes your blood vessels wider which can cause fainting and the risks associated with falling. Very high body temperatures during early pregnancy may affect the development of the baby’s nervous system so it’s best to avoid saunas during pregnancy. Limit the warm showers to no more than 10 minutes, and not more than once a day.

Layering

Your body will ensure that your unborn baby has the best climate to be in no matter what the external weather is. Women are more prone to catch a cold during pregnancy, especially as the bump gets bigger and heat is lost through the increased surface area. Ensure you use fabrics that trap moisture. Put on cotton gloves over moisturized hands for warm and supple skin.

Drink more water                                  

Agreed, that people do not feel as thirsty in winter as they do when it is summer, you must drink not just when you’re thirsty but at regular intervals to maintain an ideal body temperature. While it is important to take care of your skin by applying moisturizers and other external measures, it is also essential to be hydrated from inside too for glowing and healthy skin.

Hope these tips from our expert were useful to you. Do let us know what you think about getting more such expert driven articles. What is the next thing on your mind? We love hearing from you :)!