Cosmetic Aspects of Pregnancy
March 2006
in “
Clinics in Dermatology
”
TLDR Pregnant women often experience skin and hair changes, with over half getting stretch marks and pigment changes, and should be cautious with cosmetic procedures due to potential risks.
The 2006 document reviews the cosmetic changes experienced by pregnant women, including hyperpigmentation, hirsutism, fuller scalp hair, acne, and striae gravidarum (stretch marks), with varying degrees of persistence postpartum. It notes that over 50% of pregnant women experience pigmentary changes, and 55% to 90% develop stretch marks, with genetics and preexisting striae being strong predictors. Treatment options during pregnancy are limited due to safety concerns for the fetus. The document also covers vascular changes like palmar erythema and spider angioma, which typically resolve after birth, and varicosities, which affect 40% of pregnant women. Cosmetic procedures such as botulinum toxin A, collagen injections, and hyaluronic acid gels are discussed, with the conclusion that due to the lack of definitive research and potential risks, a conservative approach is recommended for cosmetic procedures during pregnancy.
