As a new mom, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed with all the changes that come along with postpartum life. But one of the most important things to remember is taking care of your skin! Creating an effective postpartum skincare routine can help keep your skin healthy and protect it from common issues like acne breakouts, dryness, and dark spots.
Postpartum dry skin is a common experience for many new mothers. During pregnancy, increased hormones and blood flow can cause the skin to feel more hydrated and supple.
But after giving birth, many women experience a drop in hormones, which can lead to dry, itchy, and flaky skin. Additionally, the stress and sleep deprivation that often come with caring for a new baby can also contribute to skin dryness. To combat postpartum dry skin, it is important to stay hydrated, moisturize regularly, and try to reduce stress levels.
However, there are ways to address and manage these conditions.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about creating the perfect postpartum skincare routine for yourself!
Postpartum Skincare Routine
If you are a new mom, then you know that there are a ton of changes that come with pregnancy and childbirth – and one aspect that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves is postpartum skincare.
After you’ve given birth, your skin can go through some major shifts. Hormonal changes can leave you with dryness, acne, or uneven pigmentation. Plus, you might have scars or stretch marks to contend with. It might feel daunting to tackle all of these issues at once, but taking care of your postpartum skin is important.
Not only can it help you feel more confident in your new role, but it can also help you avoid more serious skin issues down the line.
How long does postpartum dry skin last?
Postpartum dry skin can be an unwelcome surprise after giving birth. Fortunately, dry skin is a common condition that many women experience, and it’s usually only temporary.
Typically, postpartum dry skin will last around a few weeks to a few months, depending on several factors such as genetics, environmental conditions, and skincare routine.
Postpartum Dry Skin Remedies
If you’re dealing with extremely dry postpartum skin, here are some steps you can incorporate into your routine after delivery.
1. Moisturize: Keeping your skin properly moisturized is essential in treating and avoiding postpartum dry skin. Look for a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid or glycerin to help lock in moisture and restore your skin’s natural balance.
2. Sunscreen: Exposure to the sun can make postpartum dry skin worse, so be sure to protect yourself from UV rays with an SPF of 30 or higher. A lightweight sunscreen will give you the protection you need without feeling too heavy on your skin.
3. Drink plenty of water: It’s no secret that staying hydrated is important for healthy skin, but it’s especially crucial when dealing with postpartum dry skin. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin hydrated and can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging.
4. Avoid hot showers: Hot showers might be tempting after a long day, but they can actually dry out your skin even more. To avoid this, opt for lukewarm or cool showers instead and pat yourself dry with a soft towel when you’re finished.
5. Use natural remedies: You don’t have to rely on chemical-filled creams to get rid of postpartum dry skin; there are natural alternatives that you can use as well! Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer, while Manuka honey has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe your skin.
Postpartum Facial Skin Care
Cleanse: Cleansing your skin is essential for removing dirt, oil, and other impurities that can build up throughout the day. However, after giving birth, it’s important to be gentle with your skin.
Avoid harsh cleansers or scrubs that could further dry out your face – instead opt for a mild formula that won’t strip away natural oils.
Hydrate: Postpartum facial skin can often become very dry due to hormonal changes and lack of sleep. Combat this by applying a hydrating serum or moisturizer twice a day (morning and night).
Look for formulas that contain hyaluronic acid to help draw moisture into the skin and restore its softness and suppleness.
Protect: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen every day! Postpartum skin can become sensitive to sun exposure, so make sure you’re applying at least an SPF 30 or higher.
If you’re going to be out in the sun for extended periods of time, opt for a mineral-based formula with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for added protection.
Treat: There’s no denying that postpartum life is exhausting – not only do you have a new baby to care for but your body is still adjusting too. While there are certain lifestyle changes (like getting more rest) that will help improve your skin, you may want to consider adding in targeted treatments as well.
Try using retinol or other anti-aging ingredients to reduce wrinkles, enlarged pores, and sun damage.
Relax: Last but not least, don’t forget to take a moment for yourself every day. Whether it’s taking a hot bath, reading a book, or getting out in nature – make sure you’re prioritizing your own mental health as well as your skin’s.
Postpartum can be overwhelming and stressful (understatement of the century) so do something that brings you joy – your skin will thank you for it!
Home Remedies
These home remedies for glowing skin after delivery are affordable, accessible, and won’t take up too much time in your already-busy schedule.
1. Try a Honey Mask: Raw honey is naturally antibacterial and helps to draw moisture into your skin, making it an ideal mask for postpartum dryness.
Simply mix two tablespoons of raw honey with one tablespoon of oatmeal and apply the mixture to your face in circular motions. Allow it to sit on your skin for 10 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
2. Rediscover Oils: If you want to give your skin an extra boost of hydration, look no further than natural oils like jojoba, almond, olive or coconut oil!
They can help replenish lost moisture and protect against environmental damage – all without feeling greasy or clogging pores. Massage a few drops into your skin each day for best results.
3. Drink Up: A great way to improve postpartum skin is by drinking plenty of water throughout the day – not only will it help with hydration, but it can also flush out toxins and keep your body healthy from the inside out.
Aim for 8 glasses or more per day and you’ll be well on your way to clear, glowing skin.
4. Go Natural: The ingredients in many store-bought skincare products can often exacerbate postpartum skin problems – so why not make some of your own?
Simple DIY recipes like banana facial masks, aloe vera toners, avocado moisturizers, and clay masks are gentle enough for sensitive skin and can help restore your natural glow.
5. Get Moving: Exercise is key to healthy skin, so don’t forget to move your body! It helps increase circulation, which will bring more oxygen and nutrients to the surface of your skin – giving it a much-needed boost of rejuvenation. Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to get out of the house?
Best Postpartum Skin Care Products
When it comes to postpartum skincare, here are some of my favorite products:
1. Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 60 is a great option for those who want an invisible finish that won’t clog pores or make your skin feel greasy.
2. Serum: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants to help reduce wrinkles and even out skin tone. It’s also free from fragrances and other irritating ingredients, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
3. Moisturizer: The Philosophy Renewed Hope in a Jar Overnight Recharging & Refining Moisturizer is a great option for those looking to minimize wrinkles and uneven skin tone, while also providing hydration.
4. Facial Oil: The Clarins Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil is an ideal choice for a postpartum facial oil as it soothes and nourishes the skin while locking in moisture. It’s perfect if your skin is feeling dry or irritated.
5. Cleanser: The Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser is gentle enough for even the most sensitive of skins and will help remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping away natural oils or irritating your post-pregnancy complexion.
Best Lotion For Dry Postpartum Skin
The Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Moisturizer is a great choice for those looking to add some extra hydration to their postpartum skin. This lotion helps restore the skin’s natural barrier function and keeps it moisturized all day long. It’s free from fragrances, parabens, and other irritating ingredients, making it perfect for sensitive postpartum skin. Plus, it’s non-comedogenic so it won’t clog pores!
Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Lotion – this hypoallergenic and fragrance free baby moisturizer is perfect for mom’s with sensitive skin. It helps keep skin hydrated and soft all day long.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream – this cream is formulated to help restore the protective barrier of your skin while locking in moisture. It’s also non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores!
Aquaphor Healing Ointment -this ointment has been a trusted choice of moms everywhere as it quickly relieves dryness while healing chapped skin and cracked nipples from breastfeeding.
Eucerin Intensive Repair Lotion – this lotion helps intensely hydrate dry skin and helps maintain the natural balance of your postpartum skin’s moisture levels. It also contains soothing natural ingredients like shea butter, which makes it great for sensitive skin.
Vanicream Skin Cream – this gentle yet effective cream is perfect for those looking to soothe and protect their postpartum skin from dryness or irritation without any added fragrances or dyes. It’s free from irritating ingredients like parabens, lanolin and formaldehyde.
Postpartum Beauty Tips
Acne
Unfortunately, acne can be an issue while breastfeeding, so keep your skin clean and dry. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser twice daily and use an oil-free moisturizer to help reduce breakouts.
Look for skincare products that are hypoallergenic and fragrance free to ensure they won’t irritate your postpartum skin. And avoid over-exfoliating as this can aggravate sensitive skin.
Hyperpigmentation
This is another common postpartum issue so look for products that contain natural lightening agents such as kojic acid and licorice extract. Applying sunscreen can also help prevent hyperpigmentation from worsening.
You should also try to get plenty of restful sleep and drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated. And finally, don’t forget to take time for yourself! Exercise, practice meditation or yoga, and relax with a warm bath—all great ways to de-stress and promote healthy skin.
Keep in mind that all postpartum skincare routines should be tailored to your individual needs. If your skin is still dry or irritated after trying the recommended products, consult your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for you. And don’t forget to enjoy the special moments with your newborn—that is by far the best thing you can do for yourself and your baby!
Postpartum skin can be unpredictable, but with the right products and a bit of patience, you’ll be glowing in no time. Good luck!
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