Firstly, congratulations—you’re having a baby (or maybe even two or three)! 🎉

While you may be glowing with excitement on the inside, your skin might be telling a very different story. From hormonal breakouts to stretch marks and sensitivity, your skin goes through A LOT during pregnancy. But don’t worry—I’ve got you, mama! Here’s a breakdown of the most common skin changes during pregnancy and how to look after your skin every step of the way.

Issue #1: Newfound Sensitivities

Pregnancy can make your skin way more sensitive. Even products that used to work perfectly might suddenly cause redness or irritation.

What helps:

  • Switch to gentle, natural products without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
  • Choose skincare specifically formulated for sensitive or pregnancy skin.
  • Avoid overly perfumed products—they can irritate your skin and your nose!

💛 Try:

  • Nourish Urself Balm
  • Recovery Face Cream
  • All BAO face products are made with sensitive skin in mind and lightly scented with organic sweet orange essential oil (or unscented).

Issue #2: Breakouts

Hello hormones! You may find yourself dealing with breakouts reminiscent of your teenage years.

What to avoid:

  • Retin-A
  • Tetracycline
  • High doses of salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide (unless approved by your doctor)

💛 Try:

  • Radiance Face Scrub (3x per week)
    Gentle jojoba grains help unclog pores, reduce redness, and give your skin a fresh glow.

Issue #3: Dryness and the Itchiness

If you're experiencing dry, flaky, itchy skin (or lips), you're not alone. Your growing bump and stretching skin can also feel extra tight.

What helps:

  • Drink plenty of water
  • Increase healthy fats (avocado, nuts, olive oil)
  • Use nourishing skincare
  • Take a warm oat bath with Healing Bath Salts + an organza bag filled with oats (soothing + creamy!)

💛 Try:

Issue #4: Sun Sensitivity

Hormones = increased risk of melasma (also called the “mask of pregnancy”).

What helps:

  • Stay out of direct sun
  • Always wear SPF 30+
  • Choose mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide)
  • Skip chemical SPF ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone

Issue #5: Stretch Marks

As your body changes rapidly, your skin stretches—especially around your bump, breasts, and hips.

What helps:

  • Daily body moisturising
  • Gentle exfoliation
  • Consistent massage with nourishing balms and creams
  • Hydration and nutrient-rich diet

💛 Try:

  • Nourish Urself Balm (for bump & breasts)
  • Reviving Body Cream (for all-over moisture)
  • Luminosity Body Scrub (weekly exfoliation)

Issue #6: Weird and Freaky Rashes

Rashes during pregnancy can be common but don’t ignore them—some require medical attention.

Watch for:

  • Itchy hands or feet → could be a sign of cholestasis of pregnancy
  • Widespread itchy bumps (abdomen, thighs) → might be PUPPP (harmless but annoying)

What to do:

  • Always speak to your midwife or GP about new or concerning rashes
  • See a dermatologist for any persistent skin irritation

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