10 Best Ways to Treat Dry Skin During Pregnancy

ByRiddhi Roy
Updated:22 Apr 2025, 8:00 pm

During pregnancy, dry and itchy skin represents one of the most common uncomfortable pregnancy complications. Pregnant women often experience skin dryness due to hormonal changes, physical transformations, and daily activities. Deducing the source of dry skin and adopting protective and safe care techniques will help you maintain comfort during pregnancy. Basic healthcare professional-endorsed care, along with everyday skin care, allows you to maintain skin health during pregnancy.

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The joy of pregnancy comes with physical shifts, which might create overwhelming feelings for pregnant women. Most women encounter dry skin during pregnancy, although they tend to overlook its significance.
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Dry skin becomes distressing for many pregnant women while also producing flaking and itchiness that mostly occurs in the belly area alongside the breasts, hands and feet. Dry skin usually does not present a health risk, though it can cause discomfort for pregnant women if proper treatment is delayed.
Pregnant women require proper dry skin management because both skin appearance and physical comfort remain vital priorities. The improvement of skin conditions leads to better mental well-being. The knowledge of both the causes and gentle methods to address this condition will help smooth a woman's pregnancy while offering comfort throughout the journey.

Understanding Dry Skin in Pregnancy

Dry skin is more widespread among pregnant women than most women believe. Pregnant women often develop dry skin around the second or third trimester, but some experience it during earlier pregnancy periods.The good thing about pregnancy-induced dryness is that it generally appears as a short-term change which pregnant women can control through easy and safe approaches.

Common Causes of Dry Skin During Pregnancy

Multiple pregnancy-related factors lead to dry skin. These causes are often interconnected and may vary slightly from person to person:
  • Hormonal shifts: Pregnancy hormonal changes primarily affect the oil glands, which reduces skin moisture retention.
  • Increased blood flow: Growth of the foetus demands elevated blood flow, which results in skin water evaporation, thus causing itchy or dry sensations on the surface.
  • Stretching of the skin: The stretching of the skin during pregnancy happens when the belly, breasts, and thighs expand, therefore leading to dryness along with tightness and mild irritation.
  • Dehydration: Dry skin worsens due to morning sickness or reduced fluid intake in early pregnancy.
  • Weather conditions: Exposed skin becomes dry when cold winds and low humidity, compounded by excessive air conditioning, strip away its natural oils.
  • Changes in skincare habits: During pregnancy, skincare routines often undergo two significant changes.- Some women choose to discontinue their usual products entirely, while others adopt new, potentially unsuitable products for their skin type.
  • Frequent bathing or hot showers: Hot showers can lead to dry and flaky skin during pregnancy.

Top 10 Ways to Treat Dry Skin During Pregnancy

Here are 10 practical methods to treat dryness for pregnant women who need effective, natural, and gentle skin care.

  • Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers

Body washes that use foaming agents along with strong scents disrupt the natural oils from the skin surface. Women’s bodies undergo changes that make the skin more sensitive to certain ingredients, thus increasing dryness or skin irritation.Choose cleansing products that maintain a pH balance because they do not contain added perfume or colour additives. These cleansers protect the dermal barrier and provide freshness without causing dryness. Before applying a new product, consult your healthcare expert.

  • Apply natural moisturisers

You can use natural moisturisers to ease your dry skin conditions. Natural moisturisers do not contain toxic ingredients and have clear benefits.
  • Coconut oil: It has anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties
  • Shea butter: It is rich in vitamins and ideal for deep hydration
  • Aloe vera gel: When applied to the skin, aloe vera gel provides relief from itchiness and makes the skin feel cooler.
Apply moisturiser twice daily. Apply after showering and before bed for the best results. Before applying a new cosmetic product, always do a patch test to avoid any side effects.

  • Use lukewarm water for baths

Hot water may feel good, yet its heat strips the skin of its natural oils that help the skin stay hydrated. During the winter season, you should stick to lukewarm baths because they are more effective at preserving skin moisture.Use water at a temperature that feels comfortable, only slightly warmer than body heat, rather than extremely hot. Using lukewarm water during baths protects skin hydration and prevents dryness-related discomfort.

  • Limit bath time

Bathing or showering for extended periods might feel relaxing, but it slowly dehydrates the skin. In addition to limiting shower and bath time, aim to keep each session under 10 minutes.You should take a shower at a lukewarm temperature with products designed for sensitive skin. After bathing, gently pat your skin dry using a soft towel. Avoid rubbing the skin, as it can worsen dryness and cause irritation. Apply moisturiser immediately after drying your skin to keep your skin optimally hydrated.

  • Choose soft, cotton fabrics

The fabric you wear can affect your skin throughout the day. Dry skin symptoms tend to become worse because polyester and wool fabrics increase friction between layers of skin. They also trap heat around the affected area.Cotton and linen, along with other soft, breathable textiles, would be ideal choices. Wearing breathable materials can reduce the likelihood of skin irritation, as they help prevent irritation, particularly in areas with dry or flaky skin.

  • Apply moisturiser on damp skin

After taking a shower while the skin remains damp, you should moisturise to maintain water retention, which enhances product benefits.As soon as drying with a towel, apply enough moisturiser to the skin within the initial three minutes. Skin becomes hydrated and less itchy when you follow this method right away after getting out of the shower.

  • Avoid harsh skincare products

Skin becomes irritated when you expose it to products containing alcohol or artificial fragrances. You may find various ingredients that damage skin in the most common lotions and face washes sold in stores. Read product labels carefully to avoid ingredients that may sting or irritate the skin. Avoid essential oils such as rosemary, sage, or peppermint, as they may trigger uterine contractions. Safer options like lavender or chamomile oils may be used occasionally in diluted forms after speaking to your healthcare professional.

  • Use a humidifier

Being inside most of the time in air-conditioned environments with heated air can intensify skin problems.A humidifier should be placed in the bedroom or living area to maximise its benefits. It should also be cleaned regularly to prevent mould and bacterial growth.

Include omega-3-rich foods in your diet

Food consumption directly impacts the condition of the skin. The skin barrier maintains a healthy condition thanks to Omega-3 fatty acids, while these compounds work to minimise skin inflammation.

Include foods such as:

  • Flaxseeds
  • Chia seeds
  • Walnuts
  • Alsi oil (flaxseed oil)
Prenatal vitamins that contain vitamin E, zinc, and biotin can support healthy skin by improving elasticity and reducing dryness. Speak to your healthcare professional before adding any supplements.

  • Stay hydrated

Hydration starts from within. Getting adequate daily water intake maintains skin cell volume while allowing the body to heal naturally.Sipping water throughout the day helps maintain hydration more effectively than drinking large amounts at once. You can drink plain water, but adding lemon or cucumber slices can make it more beneficial. Drinking coconut water provides healthy natural fluid balance support as a good substitute for water consumption.

Ingredients to Look for in Pregnancy-Safe Skincare

Pregnancy requires a careful selection of skin care ingredients that will treat dryness without harming expectant mothers or their babies. Here is a list of gentle, effective, and readily available ingredients that are safe for pregnant women to use in skincare:
  • Shea butter: It serves as the best moisturiser while it enhances skin flexibility.
  • Cocoa butter: This ingredient is known to reduce skin itching and make skin smoother.
  • Glycerin: It causes the skin to absorb moisture while maintaining skin softness.
  • Aloe vera: It provides temperature control and a calming sensation in areas affected by damage or inflammation.
  • Plant-based hyaluronic acid: Helps retain moisture without irritating sensitive skin.
  • Oatmeal extract: It helps reduce skin itching and improves the function of the natural skin barrier.
  • Vitamin E: The diluted and mild forms of Vitamin E help skin cells repair while preserving hydration.
  • Beeswax: It establishes a protective coat that protects skin from moisture evaporation.
  • Lanolin (refined and unscented version): It functions as an excellent moisturiser for intensely dry skin areas.
  • Jojoba oil: The properties of jojoba oil mimic the natural oils of the skin and get absorbed easily.
These ingredients are safe for external application when used in limited amounts. Do a patch test to identify allergies and speak to a healthcare professional before using any of these ingredients.

Skincare Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

Various widely used skincare products penetrate the skin, such that they become unsafe for expectant mothers. Avoiding the following ingredients can help you protect both your skin and your baby:
  • Retinoids (retinol, tretinoin): Pregnant women should avoid applying high-strength retinol products (retinol or tretinoin) because these may cause birth problems.
  • Salicylic acid: Using high-strength leave-on salicylic acid products for the skin irritates the skin too much and should be used minimally or avoided.
  • Synthetic fragrances and perfumes: Synthetic fragrances and perfumes commonly include chemicals which cause skin sensitivity to escalate.
  • Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents: Though used as preservatives, they irritate the skin.
  • Parabens: It is advisable to eliminate parabens from use for safety reasons.
  • Phthalates: Pregnant women should avoid products with phthalates because these chemicals can disrupt hormone function and may affect fetal development.
  • Hydroquinone: A skin-lightening agent not recommended due to its high absorption rate
  • Chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone: Physical alternatives like zinc oxide are considered safer
Be sure to consult a dermatologist for a better idea, as they would know how to guide your pregnancy skincare needs.

How To Prevent Dry Skin During Pregnancy

A few simple practices can help keep you comfortable during pregnancy and reduce the need for medical interventions later on.

  • Follow a regular moisturising routine

Applying moisturiser protects the skin barrier and minimises both skin tightness and irritation. Fragrance-free oils and creams provide effective and safe hydration for the skin. Apply moisturiser right after bathing when the skin is damp. The skin stays supple for an extended period because moisturiser works better when applied to damp skin.

  • Limit exposure to hot water

Hot and prolonged showers strip the skin of natural oils. Pregnant women should bathe in lukewarm water for shorter durations. The skin remains hydrated, and inflammation and itching become less likely when using these methods. Skin irritation can be avoided by using a gentle approach when drying.

  • Wear breathable, cotton clothing

Breathable fabrics combined with cotton reduce skin friction and allow airflow, preventing flare-ups. The right cotton fabric helps minimise irritation in dry or sensitive areas, while wool or synthetic fibres can cause discomfort and worsen irritation on dry skin.

  • Maintain indoor air moisture

A humidifier helps minimise dryness caused by air conditioning or heating systems. The addition of moisture to indoor air helps maintain skin comfort, particularly during nighttime and cold winter months. Cleaning the humidifier regularly is important to prevent bacterial growth and mould formation. Pregnancy causes dry skin to become more sensitive to sunlight. Mineral-based sunscreen containing zinc oxide protects the skin while decreasing the chance of developing melasma.Implementing these minimal lifestyle modifications into your daily schedule will sustain your skin health during pregnancy. Speak to your healthcare professional if dryness persists.

When to See a Dermatologist?

Dry skin is common during pregnancy and can often be managed with simple skincare and lifestyle changes. But sometimes, it needs a bit more attention. Here's when you should speak to a doctor or dermatologist:

If skincare isn't helping

  • Your skin stays dry even after regular moisturising and care.
  • You notice cracks or bleeding, and they don’t heal properly.
  • Your palms or soles become very itchy or develop red patches, rashes, or raised bumps.

If there are signs of infection

  • Your skin starts oozing or feels warm and tender, this could mean an infection.
  • The itching gets worse at night or starts on your hands and feet. This may be a sign of obstetric cholestasis, a liver condition that needs medical treatment.
  • You see red, itchy rashes on your belly or thighs, this could be PUPPP. It is a common skin condition during pregnancy.

If it might be something more

  • Sometimes, ongoing dry skin could be a sign of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). If you’ve tried everything and your skin is still very dry, your doctor might suggest a thyroid test.
It can be annoying to deal with dry skin during pregnancy, but you can maintain the softness, health, and comfort of your skin with a little extra attention. You can provide your skin with the support it requires during this crucial period by utilising natural, gentle remedies, drinking plenty of water, and making adjustments to your daily schedule. Remember to pay attention to your body and consult your doctor if something doesn't feel right.

FAQs on Best Ways to Treat Dry Skin During Pregnancy

  1. What can I use for dry skin when pregnant?Natural remedies, including shea butter, aloe vera, and jojoba oil are gentle on dry skin. During pregnancy, you should select gentle moisturisers which do not contain retinoids, alcohol-based components or artificial fragrances.
  2. How can I treat dryness during pregnancy?To keep your skin hydrated, use a daily moisturiser, take lukewarm baths, and avoid harsh cleansers. Drink plenty of water, wear breathable clothes, and eat more omega-3-rich foods to help reduce dryness.
Disclaimer: Medically approved by Dr. Sushmitha, Dermatologist, Dermatosurgeon, Hair Transplant Surgeon, SPARSH Hospital, Yeswanthpur, Bangalore

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