Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Postpartum Skin: What’s Really Going On (And How To Support It)

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are incredible seasons of life—but let’s be honest, they can also come with changes and side effects you could do with less of! That radiant “pregnancy glow”? Yes please! The unexpected breakouts, skin texture changes, and post-breastfeeding dryness? Not so much.

The good news? You don’t have to just put up with it. With the right guidance, a little science, and individualised, gentle care, your skin can be supported through every stage—safely. You deserve to look after yourself as well as your growing family.

So, What’s Actually Happening?

Your body is working overtime creating and sustaining life, and that comes with a multitude of hormonal and physical changes. Some of the most common skin-related shifts during pregnancy and breastfeeding include:

• Increased Sensitivity
• Pigmentation and Melasma
• Stretch Marks
• Breakouts & Oily Skin
• Hair Growth Changes
• Dryness & Loss of Elasticity (especially post-breastfeeding)

Under the surface, here’s why:

• Progesterone surges can make your skin oilier and more prone to acne.
• Prolactin, the milk-producing hormone, can also dry out your skin.
• Oestrogen levels drop post-birth, which may lead to hair shedding and a dry, dull complexion.
• Melanin production increases during pregnancy, making pigmentation more likely.
• Your immune system changes too, sometimes triggering flare-ups of rosacea or other underlying skin conditions.
• And let’s not forget sleepless nights, which are no friend to tired, puffy eyes and dull skin.

What You Can Use on Your Skin

Let’s keep it simple: your skincare should be safe, targeted, and effective. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s all about preserving your skin barrier, staying hydrated, and managing flare-ups without harsh ingredients.

Here’s what I often recommend:

• Pregnancy-safe skincare plans tailored to your concerns.
• Salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide (in low concentrations) for breakouts.
• Vitamin C to brighten skin and help with pigmentation.
• SPF daily—non-negotiable.
• Peptide-rich products to improve texture and elasticity in place of retinoids.

What You Should Avoid (For Now)

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are times to press pause on certain active ingredients and in-clinic treatments, including:

• Retinoids & tretinoin
• Medium or deep chemical peels
• Injectables such as toxin, filler, or skin boosters

Why? Because these haven’t been tested for safety during pregnancy, and ethics (rightly) prevent testing on expectant or breastfeeding mums. When in doubt, hold off. There's plenty we can do safely in the meantime.

Safe, Soothing Treatments During Pregnancy

In-clinic treatments while pregnant should be gentle, hydrating, and designed to support your skin’s natural function. Safe but effective options include:

• Superficial chemical peels
• 3D Hydro2 Facials
• Microneedling (with caution and professional guidance)
• LED Therapy

And don’t underestimate the power of hydration, good nutrition, and a few deep breaths. Your skin really does reflect how you’re doing inside.

Postpartum Skin TLC: Rebuild & Restore

Once your baby’s here and you’re no longer breastfeeding, we can start to address any lingering skin challenges with more advanced treatments. These can help to boost collagen, restore lost volume, and give you a little of you back.

Targeted options include:

• Chemical Peels
• Hydro2 Facials
• Radiofrequency Microneedling (RF) – great for stretch marks and scars
• Polynucleotides - a new-mum favourite for tired eyes!
• PRGF Treatments – especially effective for post-partum hair loss
• Skinboosters - to restore hydration and radiance
• Dermal Fillers – if volume loss is a concern
• Toxin treatments – once breastfeeding has finished

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

This season of life can be as disorienting as it is magical. Whether you’re tired of feeling (and looking) knackered, or just want some help managing your skin safely, I’m here to support you—wherever you’re at.

✨ I offer diagnosis, personalised skincare plans, and safe treatments tailored to your stage.

✨ I also provide onward referrals if we need to bring in additional support.

Let’s help you feel a little more like you again, while you're busy being everything to everyone else.

Dr MMC

Dentistry & Medical Aesthetics

Compassionate care for real-life skin.