Pregnancy Skincare Tips: Gentle, Natural Ways to Care for Your Skin
Pregnancy is a beautiful time, but let’s be honest, it can bring plenty of unexpected changes—including to your skin. Whether you’re experiencing dryness, breakouts or sensitivity, looking after your skin during pregnancy can become an important act of self-care.
At Lovely Mama, we believe skincare during pregnancy should be simple, safe and soothing. We handcraft our all-natural products to support your skin and wellbeing, without unnecessary ingredients or strong scents that can trigger nausea.
Here’s a gentle guide to pregnancy skincare, with tips and product suggestions to help you feel more like you again.
Why your skin changes during pregnancy
Hormones have a big role to play. Rising oestrogen and progesterone levels can affect oil production, hydration and even how your skin reacts to ingredients it once loved. You might notice:
Dry or itchy patches
Acne or oily skin
Skin sensitivity or redness
Stretch marks forming
Pigmentation changes (like the ‘pregnancy mask’)
The key is to choose products that nourish and calm without harsh additives.
Ingredients to avoid in pregnancy
It’s worth checking your labels. While many commercial products are safe, some contain ingredients best avoided during pregnancy.
Try to steer clear of:
Retinol and retinoids
Salicylic acid (in high doses)
Synthetic fragrance
Parabens
Phthalates
Lovely Mama’s skincare is always free from synthetic fragrance, harsh preservatives and other pregnancy no-nos. We only use ingredients you’d be happy to put on your baby’s skin too.
Pregnancy-safe natural skincare tips
1. Hydrate from head to toe
Dry skin can be more common during pregnancy. Use a rich, natural body butter or balm after bathing to lock in moisture and calm irritation.
Try: Lovely Mama Nourishing Belly Balm – made with shea butter, rosehip and calendula.
2. Choose gentle cleansers
Foaming or exfoliating face washes may be too harsh. Opt for a creamy, non-stripping cleanser made with calming ingredients like chamomile or oat.
3. Soothe sore, stretching skin
Stretch marks are a natural part of pregnancy. Keeping your skin soft and supple with regular massage can help reduce discomfort and support elasticity.
Try: Lovely Mama Body Oil – gentle, lightweight and perfect for evening self-care.
4. Support tired feet and swollen ankles
A relaxing soak can do wonders. Add a handful of natural bath salts to warm water, put your feet up, and breathe.
Try: Lovely Mama Relaxing Bath Soak – with lavender and mineral salt.
5. Don’t skip the SPF
Hormonal changes can make skin more prone to pigmentation. Protect your face daily with a pregnancy-safe mineral sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
Thoughtful self-care for every trimester
Pregnancy comes with ups and downs. Some days you might feel glowing and energised, others you’ll just want to crawl back under the duvet. That’s ok.
Taking five minutes to gently apply a balm, light a candle or have a soak can help ground you. It’s not about fixing anything—it’s about caring for the version of you that’s growing a whole new life.
You deserve skincare that’s as thoughtful as you are.
Explore natural pregnancy gifts and pamper sets
Looking for a treat for yourself or a lovely gift for a mum-to-be?
Browse our handmade collection of all-natural skincare and self-care gifts.
Frequently asked questions
What skincare is safe during pregnancy?
Natural products free from synthetic fragrance, retinol, parabens and strong exfoliants are best. Look for simple, plant-based ingredients that nourish and calm.
Can I use essential oils when pregnant?
Yes, but with care. Some essential oils are safe in low concentrations. Lovely Mama products use pregnancy-safe essential oils blended carefully to be gentle and soothing.
How do I avoid stretch marks in pregnancy?
There’s no guaranteed way, but regular massage with nourishing oils or balms can help reduce dryness and improve skin elasticity.
What causes pregnancy acne and how do I treat it?
Hormones often increase oil production, leading to breakouts. Stick to gentle cleansing and avoid harsh acne treatments. A calming clay mask once a week can help.
Are natural skincare products better during pregnancy?
Natural products avoid many of the preservatives and additives found in commercial skincare, making them a good option when your skin is more sensitive. Always patch test first.