What kinds of changes does your skin undergo when you're pregnant, and is there any way to prevent or repair pregnancy-related skincare concerns?

Your body undergoes many changes when you're pregnant, and your skin is no exception. Melasma, acne, varicose veins and stretch marks are the most common skin problems that pregnant women face. Each can be treated both during and after pregnancy, says Dr. Eric Bernstein, clinical associate professor of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania. You can also take important preventative measures.

Melasma
Melasma, more commonly known as "pregnancy mask," is brown pigmentation around the eyes, on the cheeks and sometimes above the lip. It is caused by the hormonal changes of pregnancy, which make your skin more likely to develop dark pigment when exposed to sunlight. Asian skin can be particularly susceptible to melasma.

Avoiding melasma begins during pregnancy. Always wear an ultra-broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. The best sunscreens contain titanium, zinc or Parsol 1789. You may not feel as if you spend a lot of time outside, but even incidental exposure (such as through your car window) can cause melasma.

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