

Additionally, changes in hormone levels, your immune system and the environment can sap the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. What causes itchy skin during pregnancy?ĭry skin during pregnancy is one of the most common causes of itchiness, and can happen anywhere on the body. And, keep in mind that the best time to apply moisturizer is right after taking a shower or bath when your skin is damp. Most of the products on this list can be used in tandem with each other, so you might want to try a few out, especially if you’re dealing with severe dry skin. You may need more than one application per day or need to experiment with different layering techniques until you find what works best for your itchy skin.

From the soap or body wash you use while showering to the lotions, creams and oils you apply after bathing, each product can add another layer of moisturizing protection to soothe skin. It's important to note that this process may require applying various products in layers to tame the flame. You may also want to avoid essential oils, too, which can sometimes function as fragrances and irritate or cause allergic reactions.įrequency of application: Keeping the skin moisturized is priority number one when dealing with itchy skin, whether you’re pregnant or not. Han says, "the less fragrance, the better." Choose products labeled "fragrance-free" or "no added fragrance." Additionally, pregnancy can heighten the senses, and added fragrances could trigger an unpleasant reaction like nausea. When it comes to picking products for itch relief, Dr.
#CERAVE ITCH RELIEF FREE#
Pick pH-balanced products that contain ceramides, which are lipids that restore the skin’s barrier, and are free from harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens to best help retain moisture and not cause further aggravation.įragrance-free: Added fragrances can further irritate itchy pregnancy skin, so it's best to skip products with scents listed in the ingredient list. The ingredient list should be simple and easy to understand - simple products are often better for maintaining the skin barrier, says Dr. Ingredients: Look for products with gentle, soothing ingredients like oats or other natural moisturizers, including shea butter, coconut oil, avocado oil or aloe. When shopping for products that can relieve itchy skin during pregnancy, consider the following:
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Han, M.D., Ph.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, to learn what causes itchy pregnancy skin and how to soothe affected skin safely. How we chose the best products for itchy pregnancy skin Got an itch that just won't quit? We've done the legwork to find out which products for itch relief are safe during pregnancy and actually work to soothe skin.

Intense scratching can also cause breaks in the skin that can lead to infection. But with so many products for itchy pregnancy skin to choose between, the options can be overwhelming.Īt best, itchy skin during pregnancy is annoying or distracting - at worst, it can keep you awake and prevent you from getting the rest you need to stay healthy. Between shifting hormones, skin stretching and the potential for excess dryness, many expecting moms are left searching for much-needed relief from lotions, creams and other topical anti-itch treatments.

Of all the bothersome side effects that can happen during pregnancy, itchy skin is one of the most common.
