Skin Pigmentation, Melasma or The 'Mask of Pregnancy'

The mask of pregnancy — technically called melasma — appears when a steep rise in estrogen levels stimulates excess melanin production (also known as hyperpigmentation). That means your skin and any freckles and moles on your face or body may look darker than before. There's also a chance that there may be a dark line down the center of your abdomen, known as the linea nigra. What's more, you may observe that your areolas are also a shade deeper.

The good news is: The discolouration is temporary and usually disappears after delivery or, in some cases, after you stop breastfeeding.

Pregnancy-Safe Treatments for Melasma

Here are some steps you can follow to minimize melasma during pregnancy:

1. Fill up on folic acid

If you're experiencing melasma during pregnancy, you should eat foods that contain folic acid (you'll also get plenty in your prenatal supplement), since studies have shown that a folate deficiency can be related to hyperpigmentation. Foods rich in folic acid include green leafy vegetables, oranges, whole wheat bread and whole grain cereal.

2. Protect yourself

To minimise your pigmentation, make sure to apply a high SPF sunscreen of ideally between 30 and 50 on your face daily. You should wear sunscreen if you’re not going outside as harmful rays can reach you right through your windows. Sun exposure will only make your melasma (mask of pregnancy) more pronounced. You can also make a fashion statement (and a skin-saver) by wearing glam, oversized sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when you leave the house.

3. Conceal it

Make a good concealer your best friend. To cover hyperpigmentation, you can apply a corrective foundation and/or concealer that is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and designed to match your skin tone. But make sure that the concealer is a shade lighter than your usual product or your skin tone and apply it to the patchy spots. Then apply foundation to the rest of your face, avoiding the concealed patches. You can turn to a pressed powder for lightening your dark spots if concealer doesn't suit you or if you have oily or sensitive skin. Most compacts come in a wide range of colors for all skin tones.

4. Rely on fruits

A diet rich in fruits is a natural way to brighten up your skin and correct uneven skin tone. Try to eat a rainbow colour plate of fruits every day. And don't forget to include antioxidants and Vitamin C-rich fruits in your diet. You can also try adding a Vitamin C face serum to your daily skincare regime.

5. Skin Care with CTM

The best practice to indulge in skin care is to Cleanse, Tone and then Moisturize your skin. This 3 step regime can actually help to maintain the right nourishment, correct skin tone and a glow like never before. Tea tree-based products help to tighten the pores, remove excess oil and purify and repair the skin. Mylo has an awesome range of tea tree face wash, skin mist toner and face cream.

What skin solutions are off-limits during pregnancy?

Not each and every melasma treatment is suitable for pregnant women. Some treatments may contain chemicals or artificial ingredients that can cause harm to you or your baby. Avoid using chemical peels, bleaches or other chemically-based lightening treatments during pregnancy or while you’re breastfeeding. This is because these skincare products can potentially penetrate your skin. Additionally, any laser treatment, which can be irritating (especially now), is a big No during pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy comes with its fair share of skin and body changes, which can sometimes be frustrating to deal with and accept. Try to be patient as the mask of pregnancy generally lifts off within a few months of giving birth. In the meantime, stick to the above-mentioned pregnancy-safe melasma treatments, eat well and take your supplements regularly.