Lizzy Moran, Holistic Hormonal Wellness Coach, walks us through the changes your skin may experience during pregnancy and how to naturally manage these concerns. Read on to learn what to expect of your skin when you're expecting! 

By Lizzy Moran; updated in 2025 with guidance from esthetician Naima Solano

In this article: 

• Hyperpigmentation or Melasma
• Acne
• Dry and Sensitive Skin

It sounds cliche, but the process of creating a human being with our own bodies is a miracle. You can expect a multitude of emotional variations from excitement to fear, alongside physical experiences from morning sickness to a changing body and identity. The same can be said for skin during pregnancy. We often hear of the pregnancy glow thanks to the abundance of estrogen and extra blood volume. But many can also struggle with acne, dry skin, and hyperpigmentation.

During pregnancy, your hormonal composition looks a lot different than it would if you were still cycling. At the beginning of pregnancy, progesterone and estrogen slowly rise. As the placenta develops, the production of these two hormones will be taken over by this new organ you have just grown from then until you give birth. Yes, that’s right—you not only grow an entire human, but also a completely new organ!

Skin Concern #1: Hyperpigmentation or Melasma

The first skin concern that you may notice appearing or worsening during pregnancy is hyperpigmentation. Why? A major contributor to hyperpigmentation is high levels of estrogen, a hormone which is abundant during pregnancy. Estrogen stimulates the production of melanocytes in the skin to produce more melanin or skin pigment. Unfortunately, many of the conventional treatments to treat melasma, like hydroquinone or retinoids, are best avoided during pregnancy due to their class C designation from the FDA.

You can naturally manage hyperpigmentation while pregnant with these methods: 

• Use Sunscreen. Make sure that you apply SPF before any sun exposure—ideally a non-toxic, mineral based sunscreen. While ongoing studies are investigating the absorption of chemical sunscreen ingredients, most experts recommend using mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) during pregnancy as a safer alternative.
• Eat Fiber. Up your fiber intake to support healthy digestion, ensuring detox of circulating estrogen metabolites that contribute to hyperpigmentation. Digestion can become sluggish during pregnancy due to high levels of progesterone circulating in the body. Eating fiber-rich foods like whole grains and cruciferous veggies can help your body to flush waste optimally.
• Moisturize and Repair. Use trusted natural skincare to support a brighter, healthier, skin tone. Apoterra esthetician Naima suggests the following routine:

Hyperpigmentation Routine

Target pregnancy-related dark spots with our Brightening Double Cleanse Kit, Neroli Clarifying Complexion Mist, and Vitamin C Regenerative Balm.

1. Cleanse. The Pumpkin & Wild Carrot Soap and Vetiver Oil Cleanser gently cleanse, exfoliate, and support cell renewal for brighter skin.

2. Hydrate & Tone. The Neroli Mist soothes, hydrates, and balances hormonally reactive skin.

3. Moisturize & Repair. The Vitamin C Balm locks in moisture and helps fade discoloration with collagen-boosting, pregnancy-safe botanicals.

Skin Concern #2: Acne

Chronic inflammation, common during pregnancy, has been shown to have an exacerbating effect on acne. Inflammation can be triggered by certain foods (especially those with a high glycemic index), stress, and blood sugar imbalance. 

Stress is not always easy to manage, especially during a major life event like pregnancy. That said, explore what stress management tools you have in your pocket and do your best to implement one of them daily. A walk outside can do wonders for you mind and body!

One of the best ways to combat inflammation is through food. You can do this two ways: firstly by consuming mostly whole foods, like organic veggies and fruits, clean sources of protein, whole grains, and an abundance of healthy fats. Food that comes from the earth is what we evolved to consume to nourish ourselves and our offspring, and it has all the vitamins and minerals a growing baby needs. Secondly, manage your blood sugar by consuming healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, seeds and nuts, and protein in every snack and meal. Chocolate and peanut butter count! This is sometimes easier said than done when you’re navigating complete exhaustion or day 53 of constant nausea. Do your best. Listen to your body and nourish it in the way that feels best for you in the moment.

Some popular ingredients used to manage acne, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, should be used with caution under the guidance of a healthcare provider. The chemical exposure to fetuses in utero found in recent studies is pretty shocking. In a study conducted by the EWG, 287 industrial chemicals were found in umbilical cord blood. But this does not mean you have to give up on your beauty routine for 9 months! Opt for nourishing natural skincare that targets your acne while improving overall skin health. Apoterra esthetician Naima suggests the following routine:

Acne Routine

Address pregnancy-related breakouts with our Vetiver Illuminating Oil Cleanser, Activated Charcoal & Dead Sea Salt Soap, Neroli Clarifying Complexion Mist, and Sea Berry Balancing Facial Oil.

1. Oil Cleanse. The Vetiver Cleanser removes excess sebum and impurities while calming inflammation.

2. Bar Cleanse. The Charcoal Soap detoxifies, exfoliates, and purifies pores to prevent new breakouts.

3. Hydrate & Tone. The Neroli Mist hydrates, clarifies, and helps balance hormonal skin with vitamin C and niacinamide.

4. Moisturize. The Sea Berry Balancing Facial Oil nourishes and balances without drying out or clogging the skin.

Skin Concern #3: Dry and Sensitive Skin