Busy Mom’s Guide: Top 7 Must-Have Postpartum Skincare Products

As a new mom, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of caring for your little one. Between diaper changes, feedings, and endless cuddles, your own needs can take a backseat. But remember, mama, taking care of yourself - especially your skin - is crucial too! Don't forget to prioritise your own self-care amidst the chaos of motherhood duties. Postpartum skincare can be overwhelming but don't worry, we've got you covered. Here are the top 7 skincare products that'll help you glow inside out after your delivery, even on the most sleep-deprived days. From soothing stretch marks to rejuvenating tired skin, these must-haves will become your trusted companions. 

But before we talk about these skincare essentials and provide you with further recommendations, let’s first discuss various postpartum skincare issues. Put your baby to sleep and ride on this wonderful skincare journey with us! Let’s go!

Skin Changes After Baby: What To Expect?

1) Stretch Marks

Also known as striae gravidarum, stretch marks often appear during pregnancy due to rapid skin stretching and hormonal factors. As the body adjusts after pregnancy, these marks can develop on the belly, thighs, and breasts. They start as red or purple lines but may fade to a lighter colour over time. While they’re common, many new mothers feel self-conscious about them. ^{1 2}

2) Dark Spots/Hyperpigmentation

Hormonal fluctuations post-delivery may result in hyperpigmentation, causing dark patches to appear on the skin. Although this condition often resolves on its own, some women may opt for skincare products that may speed up the treatment process. ^{1 3 4 5}

3) Dry Skin

Dry skin is a common complaint among new mothers. Hormonal fluctuations, dehydration, and fatigue can all contribute to dry, rough skin that can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Additionally, the rapid changes in skin elasticity during pregnancy can lead to dryness and itchiness. However, with the right moisturising skincare products and healthy lifestyle habits, new mothers can soothe and hydrate their skin. Thereby promoting a smoother, more radiant complexion. ^{6 7 8 9} 

4) Postpartum Acne

Up to 50% of new mothers experience postpartum acne, a common skin issue that arises after giving birth. As your body adjusts to its new state, hormone levels shift, leading to an increase in oil production. This excess oil, combined with dirt and dead skin cells, clogs pores and causes pimples to form. Postpartum acne can appear immediately after giving birth or develop weeks or even months later, leaving many new mothers wondering what's behind these unwelcome breakouts. ^{10 11}   

5) Dark Circles And Puffiness

As a new mom, you're likely no stranger to the exhausting yet exhilarating world of parenthood, where sleepless nights and boundless energy are the new normal. And it shows - literally. Dark circles, swelling, and puffiness around the eyes are just a few of the tell-tale signs of motherhood. But don't worry, you're not alone! If you want to know about it in detail, read our full blog on - Post-Pregnancy Dark Circles Under Eyes - Causes & Tips To Overcome Them!

How To Protect Your Skin Post-Pregnancy?  

To maintain healthy, radiant skin after pregnancy, follow these simple tips:

• Shield Your Skin From The Sun: Avoid prolonged sun exposure and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of more than 15 or higher, daily. ^{12 13}
• Keep Your Skin Clean: Establish a gentle, daily cleansing routine to prevent acne breakouts and blemishes. Using a mild & safe cleanser, specially curated for new moms, may be helpful. ¹¹
• Nourish Your Body: Focus on consuming nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, to support overall health and well-being.¹⁴
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for 8-12 cups daily (just like you did during your pregnancy journey). It helps your body recover from childbirth stress and to maintain healthy skin. ¹⁵
• Moisturise Your Skin- You can combat skin issues like dry skin and stretch marks if you adequately moisturise your skin. This is essential especially while dealing with skin irritation and stretched skin. ⁶

Skincare Products That Every Mum Must Have

1) Gentle Cleansers

Using a gentle cleanser is key for new mothers. Harsh soaps may irritate postpartum skin, which may be more sensitive than ever. Look for formulas free of sulfates and fragrances. Try our Hydrating Body Foam Wash. 

Indulge in a luxurious pampering experience with this all-natural hydrating body wash, specifically designed for new moms. This gentle, self-foaming formula effectively cleanses and soothes your skin, while protecting against germs. Perfect for busy schedules, it saves time without compromising on care.

2) Hydrating Moisturisers

Hydration is crucial for restoring your skin's barrier function. Products that cater to sensitive skin can make a real difference. To overcome skin dryness post-delivery, you must add a hydrating lotion that contains humectants (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin) that keep the skin hydrated and ingredients such as Trehalose and Aloe Vera that seal in moisture. ^{16 17 18 19}   

Mommies, here’s a lotion that checks all these boxes - AreoVeda Hydrating Spray Lotion. It has the goodness of Pentavitin and Trehalose which provides 72 hours of long-lasting hydration while protecting against damage caused by dehydration. Also, it helps minimise hyperpigmentation and gives visible results in just 28 days. 

3) Brightening Serums

As we discussed earlier, a new mom faces a variety of skin issues - from pigmentation to acne and dark spots - for which serums are a go-to choice! With so many options out there, we have got the best for you - AreoVeda Skin Brightening Serum.

Say goodbye to dark spots and hello to a brighter, more uniform complexion. This skin-brightening serum combines the power of NaturePep Pea and Bakuchiol to deliver visible results in just 28 days.

4) Under Eye Serums

New mothers often experience sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, and increased stress. All this can take a toll on your under-eye area leading to dark circles, puffiness, dryness and tired eyes. 

Give AreoVeda Under Eye Serum a try. It can visibly reduce the appearance of under-eye dark circles, folds and puffiness within 28 days, while providing instant hydration for up to 72 hours. Most importantly, it’s Ecocert Certified, EWG Verified and tested on lab-grown human skin cells for safety and efficacy.

5) Stretch Mark Cream

Adding a stretch mark cream to your postpartum skincare routine can help improve skin elasticity, and hydrate and nourish dry, stretched skin. Therefore, look for products infused with powerhouse ingredients like hyaluronic acid, soothing Aloe Vera, invigorating coffee, and Striover, which can work together to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and leave your skin feeling smooth and supple. 

Finding the best stretch mark cream among so many options must be overwhelming. So, here we are with a solution. AreoVeda Stretch Mark Cream that’s infused with Striover can help visibly reduce old and new stretch marks within 28 days. Safe for pregnant moms, it's made with natural ingredients like glycerine, almond oil, and trehalose that help hydrate the skin, lock in moisture, and soothe skin.

6) Nipple Butter Cream

Sore and cracked nipples are like a nightmare for a breastfeeding mom. So, a nipple butter cream for sore nipples is a must. Therefore, make sure to add one to your list of must-have self-care skincare products! One product that has gained popularity among new moms is AreoVeda Natural Nipple Butter. Infused with the natural goodness of Licorice Root Extract and Turmeric, it has a gentle formula that helps calm and heal painful nipple fissures, providing much-needed relief. And mommies, it’s completely safe for babies as well, so you can breastfeed them without any worries. 

7) Post Natal Massage Oil

Some common postpartum issues that new moms often endure include abdominal pain, back pain, fatigue and cramping. And that’s where a relaxing postnatal massage comes in! It’s a beneficial way to support your body’s recovery. ²⁰ Additionally, choosing the right massage oil for postpartum problems can also be a game changer! AreoVeda Post Natal Massage Oil is a nourishing and hydrating oil that works wonders for new moms. The powerful blend of ghee, 6 oils, and 24 herb extracts alleviates tiredness and softens skin and regular massage can also help improve breast milk supply.     

Conclusion

Caring for your skin postpartum is just as important as caring for your little one. With the right skincare products, you can restore moisture, enhance elasticity, and regain your natural glow. These must-have postpartum essentials not only help your skin heal but also give you a well-deserved moment of self-care.

Remember, your postpartum journey is unique—so choose products that cater to your skin’s needs and make you feel your best. AreoVeda is India’s first brand to be Ecocert Certified, EWG Verified, and Cellularly Proven, ensuring natural, safe, toxin-free skincare products for pregnant women, moms and babies.