While skincare may be the last of your postpartum priorities, the blessing of having glowing skin is not lost on new mothers. Recently, when we saw Gauahar Khan taking a break from her motherly responsibilities, her radiant skin couldn’t go unnoticed.
Take a look.
So, we reached out to experts to understand how one can achieve glowing skin naturally after childbirth. And, experts urged that recovering and rejuvenating your skin postpartum is an important aspect of self-care for new mothers.
“Pregnancy and childbirth can bring about hormonal changes that may affect your skin, but with a consistent skincare routine, you can bring back the glow and maintain healthy-looking skin, said Dr Debeshi Bhattacharjee, clinical cosmetologist; medical head and founder of Lueur Aesthetics.
Dr Akriti Gupta, cosmetic dermatologist, Jivisha Clinic, New Delhi explained that women frequently endure abrupt hair loss and hypersensitive skin after delivery. “In addition to stretch marks and pigmentation, some postpartum women also experience changes in their skin’s texture, acne, and dark undereye bags. For this reason, it’s crucial to take extra care of your skin. Your oestrogen and progesterone levels decline rapidly after giving birth, as do all of your hormone levels,” said Dr Gupta.
To avoid facial acne, remove more oil by washing your skin. “Use a gentle cleanser to wash away debris, oil, and other potentially hazardous substances from your face twice a day. These substances could cause acne outbreaks,” advised Dr Gupta.
She also mentioned that one should ensure to get enough rest while the newborn sleeps. “Your skin will look better if you get enough sleep. Use a water-based moisturiser after washing your face if you have dry skin,” said Dr Gupta.
Dr Bhattacharjee shared some basic skincare tips to follow postpartum
Cleansing: Start your skincare routine with a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type. Look for a mild, pH-balanced cleanser that will effectively remove dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. Avoid harsh cleansers that can cause dryness and irritation.
Moisturising: Hydration is key to maintaining healthy-looking skin. Choose a moisturizer specifically formulated for your skin type, whether it’s dry, oily, or combination. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or shea butter to lock in moisture and improve skin elasticity. Apply moisturizer twice a day, in the morning and before bed.
Sun protection: Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial for overall skin health and preventing premature ageing. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. If you’re breastfeeding, choose a sunscreen that is safe for both you and your baby.
Gentle exfoliation: Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture. Opt for a gentle exfoliator that won’t cause irritation or inflammation. Avoid harsh scrubs and instead choose chemical exfoliants with ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). Start with exfoliating once or twice a week and adjust as needed based on your skin’s response.
Eye care: Lack of sleep and fatigue can result in dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines around the eyes. Use a hydrating eye cream specifically formulated for the delicate eye area. Look for ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C to reduce puffiness and brighten the under-eye area.
Healthy diet and hydration: Nourish your skin from within by maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Additionally, drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and promote a healthy glow.
Dr Gupta added, “Consume leafy vegetables that are dark green, such as broccoli, cabbage, spinach, beets, and carrots. These vegetables are nutrient-dense and packed with antioxidants, which will keep your skin healthy.”
You’ve had enough of your pregnancy cravings; it’s time to keep an eye on your nutrition. So stop eating all that sugary food. “Eat healthily, even if you like to indulge occasionally, but watch out that you don’t consume more calories than you require for a strong body and clear mind,” said Dr Gupta.
*Starting a yoga practice is the best approach to staying in shape and achieving bright skin.
“Breathing properly is one of the simplest and easiest techniques to regain your shine. Try out some yoga positions, such as Pranayama and Anulom Vilom. Blood circulation will be improved,” suggested Dr Gupta.
According to Dr Gupta, “consuming detox water is a tasty and healthy method to restore your radiance”. “Ajwain, also known as carom seeds water, is frequently advised to new mothers since it aids in digestion and removes toxins from the uterus,” said Dr Gupta.
Bonus tip for your hair!
Champi, also known as scalp massage, is a common bonding activity in Indian households and is a highly effective approach to promoting hair development in new mothers. “It supports hair regrowth and prevents hair loss by strengthening and reviving the hair,” said Dr Gupta.
What else can help?
Remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare. “Give your skin time to adapt to a new routine, and be patient with the results. With a mindful skincare regimen and some self-care, you can restore the glow to your skin postpartum and embrace your beautiful self as a new mother,” said Dr Bhattacharjee.
What to be mindful of?
If you’re experiencing specific skin concerns postpartum, such as melasma (dark patches), acne, or excessive dryness, it’s advisable to consult a medical professional. “They can provide personalised advice and recommend specific treatments or products that are safe for you and your baby if you’re breastfeeding,” advised Dr Bhattacharjee.
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