Dermatologist Shares Postpartum Skin Care Tips All New Moms Should Hear

If you're wondering if the famous pregnancy glow is real - we have good news for you - it is. According to the Mayo Clinic, increased blood volume and increased production of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) during pregnancy work together to create an ethereal pregnancy glow or skin that looks slightly reddened and plump. These hormones hCG and progesterone help make the skin smoother and slightly shinier during pregnancy. And all this beautiful and radiant skin, until one day it disappeared. Skin problems after childbirth are not uncommon. After giving birth, new moms may notice more pronounced circles under the eyes, lingering side effects of melasma, discoloration, dullness, or pimples on the skin due to fluctuating hormone levels, stress, lack of sleep, and possibly neglected skin care. With so much going on, it can seem almost impossible to bring that otherworldly glow back. Luckily, after speaking with board certified dermatologist Dandy Engelman, MD, she revealed that it is possible to regain a radiant complexion. Ahead, we'll share her top tips and tricks for the perfect postpartum skincare. Disclaimer: If you're breastfeeding, talk to your dermatologist before introducing any new skin care products into your daily routine.

Tip #1: Clear your skin

Ease your path to a structured skincare regimen by cleansing your skin twice daily with a gentle and soothing cleanser. Vichy Pureté Thermale 3-in-1 One Step Solution uses gentle micellar technology to remove impurities, dissolve makeup while soothing skin. It's the perfect multi-tasking product for moms who have less time in the day to dedicate to their skin. After use, your skin is left moisturized, soft and fresh. Plus, you don't even need to rinse. If you are concerned about postpartum acne, use Vichy Normaderm Gel Cleanser. Contains salicylic and glycolic acids to unclog pores, remove excess sebum and prevent new blemishes from appearing on the skin. 

Tip #2: Wear Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

Some women complain of brown spots or hyperpigmentation after pregnancy. While melasma — a form of skin discoloration common among pregnant women — usually goes away on its own after childbirth, it can take some time. However, it's important to note that sun exposure can aggravate pre-existing dark spots, so be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, such as SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50. Don't forget to apply to areas of the face. most exposed to sunlight, such as the cheeks, forehead, nose, chin, and upper lip. In tandem with a broad spectrum SPF, Dr. Engelman recommends a daily antioxidant serum such as SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic. “Just five drops in the morning really help with free radical damage, hyperpigmentation, and slowing down aging,” she says. And if you forgot your sunscreen at home, Dr. Engelman has a hack just for you. "If you have a zinc-based diaper paste, it can protect your skin while you're away," she says. "It's a physical blocker, but you'll always have it in your diaper bag so you can use it like sunscreen."

Tip #3: Moisturize Your Skin Daily

Keep dry skin at bay with a hydrating moisturizer applied twice a day. Dr. Engelman recommends SkinCeuticals AGE Interrupter. “Often with hormonal changes, we become more prone to dryness,” she says. "[AGE Interrupter] helps fight the signs of aging caused by advanced glycation end products." If your skin is prone to redness or irritation, Dr. Engelman recommends trying the SkinCeuticals Phytocorrective Mask. “Just sitting in the bath and wearing a mask really makes you take some time for yourself,” she says. And finally, to stay hydrated inside and out, be sure to drink enough water throughout the day.

Tip #4: Get rid of stains

Rising hormones and intense fluctuations can lead to an increase in sebum production, which, when mixed with dirt and dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, can clog pores and cause breakouts. Use products containing acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to penetrate clogged pores and remove impurities. “Retinoids and retinols are not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, but if you are not and you are a new mom, you can certainly reintroduce them into your daily routine because it really helps,” says Dr. Engelman. "Not just for acne prevention, but for overall skin quality and texture." To wean yourself off the use of retinol, we recommend Indeed Labs Bakuchiol Facial Recovery Pads. Bakuchiol is a gentle alternative to retinol that increases cell turnover, restores skin elasticity and reduces acne. These pads are also designed to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture. Not to mention, you don't have to worry about how much product to use because it's conveniently packaged in a disposable pad. But if you use retinoids, be aware that they can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Limit your use in the evening and pair with a broad spectrum sunscreen during the daytime. 

Tip #5: Relax

Newborn care (hello, night feeds) can result in you getting too few hours of sleep per night. Sleep deprivation is a major cause of dull, tired skin, as it is during deep sleep that the skin undergoes self-healing. Also, lack of sleep can make your eyes puffy and make dark circles more pronounced. Rest as much as possible and put two pillows under your head to deal with some of these negative side effects. Applying concealer under the eyes can also help hide any dark circles. We love the Maybelline New York Super Stay Super Stay Concealer for its full coverage formula that lasts up to 24 hours. In addition to relaxing, find a quiet moment to enjoy the time you spend with yourself as much as possible. “Whether it’s something that brings you joy—going for a pedicure or an extra 10 minutes in the bath to do a sheet mask—you need to take care of yourself first and that will make you a better mother. ', says Dr. Engelman. “There is so much guilt about being a new mom, it's a reality. So the last thing we feel like we're allowed to do is take care of ourselves. But I really plead with all my patients, this is the best thing you can do - not just for yourself, but for your family." Not enough time? We asked Dr. Engelman for a summary of the most important steps to spend time on. “We have to cleanse properly, we have to make sure we have a daily antioxidant and broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning, and then, if you can tolerate, retinol and a good emollient at night,” she says. “These are bare bones. Most new moms don't have time for 20 steps. But as long as you can put them in, I think you'll find yourself starting to look like the old me."