Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Routine for Oily Skin: Tips for Moms-To-Be

During pregnancy, that glow sounds dreamy—but let us be real, hormones have their own way of playing tricks on your skin! With all the hormonal ups and downs, your skin can go through a rollercoaster of changes, and one of the most common issues? Excess oil. If you have noticed your skin feeling greasier than usual, do not worry—you are not alone! Following the right skin care routine for oily skin during pregnancy can help balance oil production, prevent breakouts, and keep your skin feeling fresh.In this blog, let us break down why pregnancy can make your skin oilier and how you can keep that shine under control.

Understanding Oily Skin

Oily skin, also known as seborrhoea, arises when the sebaceous glands generate excessive sebum, giving the skin a glossy and greasy appearance. In general, the average production of sebum is 1 mg/10 cm2 every three hours. However, during pregnancy, sebaceous glands generate more than 1.5mg 4.0 mg/10cm2 every three hours.

Causes For Oily Skin During Pregnancy

The primary cause of oily skin is excess production of sebum due to higher levels of androgens and higher sensitivity to androgens. Studies confirm that androgen levels increase during gestation.

Androgens, also known as "male hormones", play an important role in influencing oil production, regardless of gender. The most well-known androgen, testosterone, is predominantly produced in the gonads and adrenal glands, but it can also be produced by the sebaceous (oil) glands. 
Multiple studies have found that people with higher androgen levels have oilier skin. This is because androgens activate sebaceous glands, causing them to produce more sebum.

Skin Care Routine For Oily Skin

Although hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause a variety of skin issues, the good news is that the majority of them are transient and disappear after childbirth. However, adhering to a consistent skincare routine will help you manage these changes efficiently, keeping your skin healthy and bright throughout your pregnancy.

A good skincare routine does not have to be complicated, but morning and evening procedures serve different purposes. Your morning regimen protects your skin, while your night routine cleanses and repairs it.

Morning Skin Care Routine

Step 1: Cleanse

Washing with regular water does not yield significant results, as environmental contaminants are not water-soluble. This is where cleansers are beneficial; they assist in eliminating excess dirt and oil from the skin without causing irritation or damage. 
Consistently cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser, especially a water-based cleanser, which is appropriate for oily skin, and select fragrance-free variants.

Step 2: Exfoliate:

Exfoliation is essential for managing oily skin, helping to clear pores and prevent breakouts. Salicylic acid, a highly effective chemical exfoliant, is particularly beneficial due to its lipophilic nature, allowing it to penetrate oily skin and acne-prone areas. It works by dissolving excess oil and dead skin cells, reducing clogged pores and breakouts. 

Regular use of gentle exfoliants can help maintain a balanced complexion without over-drying or irritating the skin.

Step 3: Moisturise:

There is a common misunderstanding that people with oily skin should avoid moisturisers, but evidence shows otherwise. Using the correct moisturiser can help regulate oil production and keep your skin healthy.A lightweight, oil-free solution packed with glycerin and hyaluronic acid delivers vital hydration without leaving a greasy feeling behind. 
To protect your skin from UV radiation, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. For oily skin, a gel-based moisturiser is a lighter option that absorbs easily.

Step 4: Apply Antioxidant cream or serum (optional)

Although it is not mandatory, incorporating an antioxidant serum or cream into your morning skincare routine can offer additional protection against environmental stressors. These products often include strong face acids such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, which assist in neutralising free radicals, improving skin health, and maintaining a youthful glow.

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C is an effective antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage caused by pollution and UV exposure. It also helps produce collagen, which maintains skin elasticity and reduces fine lines.
Vitamin E: The application of a vitamin E serum in the morning can help your skin retain moisture and strengthen its natural barrier, thereby preventing damage from external factors.

Ferulic Acid:

Ferulic acid is an additional effective antioxidant that is frequently combined with vitamin C and E to increase its efficacy. It is a valuable addition to your hygiene routine, as it offers additional protection against oxidative stress.

Step 5: Wear sunscreen:

Sunscreen protects your skin from dangerous UV rays, which can cause premature ageing, sunspots, and even skin cancer. To keep oily skin balanced, use a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which gives broad-spectrum protection without blocking pores or causing breakouts.

ProTip:

Blot: Using blotting paper is one of the simplest and most effective strategies to control excess oil all day. Simply press the blotting paper lightly against your skin to absorb the oil without removing your makeup or harming your skin. Furthermore, they are small and portable, making them ideal for on-the-go touch-ups.

Night Time Skin Care Routine

Step 1: Check Your Makeup

Wash your face twice a day with a fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water or clean it with a mild cleanser suitable for your skin. If you wear a lot of makeup, it is better to do it less during pregnancy or use cosmetics that are water-based. Furthermore, be sure to completely remove your makeup before going to bed.

Step 2: Cleanser

People with oily skin may benefit from double cleansing at night. This method involves two steps to ensure a deeper cleansing:

• Start with an oil-based cleanser, as this effectively removes makeup, sunscreen, and extra oil.
• Follow up with a water-based cleanser to get rid of any remaining impurities and leave your skin feeling clean and refreshed.

By implementing double cleansing into your nighttime routine, you can maintain the balance and freshness of your skin while also managing excess oil.

Step 3: Moisturiser

The final step in your nightly skincare regimen is to apply a vitamin A-based cream. This procedure helps to rehydrate the skin and support collagen production overnight. Tretinoin, retinol, bakuchiol, and adapalene are frequently used for their ability to promote cell turnover and improve skin texture.

Don’ts in your routine:

• Refrain from using oil-based or alcohol-based cleansers that could irritate your skin.
• Do not rub the blotting paper on your face, as the friction will spread oil to other places and increase the risk of clogged pores or breakouts. To get the best results, press and lift.
• Heavy and greasy skincare products can clog pores, trapping oil, debris, and bacteria. Such products can cause breakouts, blackheads, and acne by providing an environment in which bacteria thrive.

Significance Of Skin Care Routine In Seasons:

The requirements of your skin are not consistent throughout the year; hot summers and chilly winters all have a distinct impact on your skin. To avoid dehydration and excess sebum production, a specific skincare routine for oily skin is the best choice.

Tips for Oily Skin in Summer

• As temperatures rise, the requirements of your skin change. Modifying your skincare regimen for summer can aid in preventing breakouts, managing extra sebum, and safeguarding against sun damage.
• Rich, heavy moisturisers can clog pores and lead to breakouts or milia (tiny white cysts). A lighter, oil-free moisturiser hydrates skin without leaving it feeling greasy.
• The most important summer skincare step is applying broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+). UV rays are strongest during summer, increasing the risk of premature ageing and skin cancer. Use a lightweight sunscreen to prevent clogged pores.

Tips for Oily Skin in Winter

• Ceramide-based creams maintain skin balance and strengthen the skin barrier to prevent dryness.
• Indoor heating can dehydrate skin, so apply moisturisers regularly. Always keep your skin hydrated.
• Lukewarm water is a better choice than hot showers, as hot water can strip skin moisture.
• Gentle, hydrating cleansers are a great choice to retain natural skin oils.
• Applying a moisturiser immediately after cleansing helps to lock in hydration while skin is still damp.

Conclusion

Managing oily skin during pregnancy may seem challenging. However, with a tailored skincare routine for oily skin, you can keep excess oil under control while ensuring your skin remains healthy and balanced. By following a consistent regimen—cleansing, moisturising, applying antioxidants, and using sun protection—you can protect your skin from breakouts and irritation without compromising on safety. Remember, pregnancy-related skin changes are often temporary, and with the right care, you can maintain a radiant and comfortable glow throughout your journey to motherhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1) What Skin Care Routine Is Best For Oily Skin?

The best skincare routine for oily skin is one that  balances oil production while keeping the skin hydrated and healthy. Start with a moderate, water-based cleanser that will remove excess oil and pollutants without stripping the skin’s natural oil. Exfoliate 2-3 times per week with salicylic acid or other light exfoliants to clear pores and prevent outbreaks. Hydration is essential, so choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser infused with hyaluronic acid or glycerin to keep moisture balanced. Daily sun protection is crucial; use a broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin against UV damage. To control shine throughout the day, keep blotting paper nearby to absorb excess oil without ruining your makeup.

Q2) How To Get 100% Clear Skin?

Diet plays a crucial role in achieving clear skin. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins, while reducing processed foods and sugar can prevent breakouts. Consuming skin-friendly nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E supports skin repair, boosts collagen, and fights oxidative stress.

Additionally, managing stress and getting enough sleep can help regulate hormones and prevent acne flare-ups. Following a consistent skincare regimen with gentle cleansing, hydration, and sun protection is essential for maintaining healthy skin. If persistent skin concerns persist, consulting a dermatologist for personalised treatment can significantly improve the condition of your skin.