Pregnancy skin has a reputation for being the best skin of a woman’s life, often associated with glowing skin and flawlessness. However, the reality check is that pregnancy is a time of escalated hormones. And these hormones can cause an eczema flare-up, even in those women who have not experienced one before. Let’s understand the link between pregnancy and eczema and what you can do to manage the condition.
How Common Is Eczema During Pregnancy?
Eczema is the most common skin condition women experience during pregnancy. Third and a half of all dermatosis cases in women can be credited to eczema. The reason is that the changes in a woman’s body to protect the fetus make her more susceptible to sensitivities toward allergens. This could be blamed on the high level of estrogen that a woman’s body produces during pregnancy. All these changes make a woman’s body the perfect breeding ground for a nasty bout of eczema.
Why Does Eczema Occur During Pregnancy?
Not all pregnant women get eczema during pregnancy, and some individuals’ eczema actually gets better due to it. Everyone’s immune system is different, but some reasons can narrow down why women get eczema.
- Changing Hormones:
Eczema can be attributed to increased estrogen levels. Therefore, these can cause shifts in how the immune system responds to allergens and heighten the skin barrier’s sensitivity. - External Causes:
Pregnancy can be a stressful time, and stress can lead to an eczema flare-up. The skin condition could also be linked to the environment, level of humidity or dryness, and weather changes; therefore, these things could affect a person’s eczema. - Skin Changes:
It can lead to changes in the skin’s hydration and elasticity level; hence, the skin can be prone to more sensitivity during this time. - Exposure To Triggers:
Everyone’s allergies are different; therefore, exposure to allergens that affect the skin can trigger eczema in pregnant women.
How To Avoid Eczema During Pregnancy
Managing eczema during pregnancy is tricky as you may be discouraged from using steroids that people with chronic eczema are prescribed. However, it’s a good idea to avoid flare-ups before they happen.
- Use Emolliants: Use moisturizers formulated with skin-friendly ingredients and emolliants.
- Go Fragrance-free: Avoid using fragranced skincare products; additionally, keeping fragrance away from direct contact with skin is recommended. Fragrance can be a trigger for eczema for a sensitized skin barrier.
- Avoid Harsh Soaps: Don’t come in contact with harsh surfactants like detergents or soaps, as they can hurt your skin barrier and lead to a flare-up.
- Breathable Fabrics: Light fabrics like cotton won’t irritate your skin, so avoid wearing clothes with harsh or thick textures, as friction can result in irritation.
- Humidifier: Employ a humidifier to ensure that the environment around you is not too dry. Try to avoid extreme temperatures and be in a comfortable setting.
What’s Next
Eczema during pregnancy adds another layer of discomfort in an already trying period. It’s important to not prolong suffering and seek professional help for your symptoms. Our primary care physicians at Family Diagnostic Clinic can help. Our seasoned doctors are equipped to handle your autoimmune issues and alleviate your symptoms. Call us at (281) 351-6800 to book an appointment.