Pregnancy Skin Issues & Pregnancy Safe Skincare

Being pregnant is a beautiful journey — but let’s be honest, it can be a bumpy ride for your skin. From sudden breakouts to hyperpigmentation during pregnancy, many mums-to-be find themselves Googling questions like “Why is my skin so bad in pregnancy?” or “What’s safe to put on my face?”

If you’re a first-time mum or already juggling toddlers, the last thing you need is the added stress of figuring out whether your moisturiser is pregnancy-safe.

That’s why we’ve spoken to Liverpool mums and rounded up advice on how to handle common pregnancy skin issues, including the best skincare for pregnancy now available in Boots.

Common Skin Problems While Pregnant

Pregnancy hormones can bring on a whole mix of skin issues, including:

Breakouts and acne: Increased sebum can lead to oily skin and clogged pores.
Dryness and flaking: Especially in early pregnancy or colder months.
Melasma (pregnancy pigmentation on the face): Often called “the mask of pregnancy”, this causes dark patches on the cheeks, nose or forehead.
Hyperpigmentation in pregnancy: From your neck to underarms, pigmentation can appear in places you’ve never had it before.
Pregnancy dermatitis: Red, dry, itchy rashes — often on the tummy, legs or arms.

What Does Pregnancy Dermatitis Look Like?

Pregnancy dermatitis can appear as patches of red, irritated skin, often itchy and uncomfortable. It may look like eczema or small, raised bumps. If you’re unsure, always speak to your midwife or GP — especially if the rash spreads or worsens.

5 Warning Signs to Watch for in Pregnancy

While most pregnancy skin changes are harmless, keep an eye out for:

Sudden severe rashes or itching (especially at night)
Painful or infected breakouts
Blisters or hives
Skin that becomes hot, swollen or inflamed
Any rash combined with fever or feeling unwell

If you experience any of the above, don’t wait — check in with your GP or midwife.

What Causes Hyperpigmentation During Pregnancy?

Hyperpigmentation is caused by rising levels of oestrogen and progesterone, which increase melanin production. This can show up as:

Dark patches on the face (melasma)
A dark vertical line down your belly (linea nigra)
Darkened nipples and inner thighs

FAQs from Liverpool Mums

How do you treat hyperpigmentation during pregnancy?
The safest way is gentle, hydrating skincare with ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, and SPF. Avoid harsh ingredients like retinol and hydroquinone unless prescribed by a doctor.

Does hyperpigmentation from pregnancy go away?
In most cases, yes — especially after birth and once hormone levels settle. But you can help speed up the process with the right pregnancy-safe skincare routine.

Meet the Brand Taking the Stress Out of Pregnancy Skincare: SKN TO SKN

Finding skincare that’s pregnancy safe can feel like a minefield. Can I use this cream? Is SPF safe? What about anti-aging products?

That’s exactly why SKN TO SKN was born — and mums across Liverpool are raving about it.

What Makes SKN TO SKN Different?

Safe at every stage — from TTC to postpartum
Designed by dermatologists and approved by GPs
Clinically proven for hormonally sensitive skin
Free from retinol, salicylic acid and chemical SPF
Trusted by mums across the UK

Whether you’re looking for a gentle pregnancy safe moisturiser, something to soothe dryness or a routine to tackle pregnancy pigmentation, this brand does all the hard work for you — no guesswork required.

A Brand Created from First-Hand Experience

Founded by Sara Stokes, a former music industry executive turned entrepreneur, SKN TO SKN was created out of frustration. During her own pregnancy, Sara realised just how little guidance was available when it came to skincare during pregnancy — with vague labels and conflicting advice making things even more confusing.

Now, her brand is changing the game by offering expert-led, safe skincare that actually works. From serums that support skin barrier repair to SPFs suitable for sensitive skin, every product is designed with mums in mind.

Where to Buy SKN TO SKN in Liverpool

Ready to upgrade your routine with pregnancy skin skincare that works and feels amazing? You can now shop SKN TO SKN exclusively at Boots — both online and in select Liverpool stores.

Shop SKN TO SKN at Boots

Final Thoughts from the Unlock Liverpool Team

Being pregnant is a huge life change — and your skin is just trying to keep up. Whether you’re struggling with hyperpigmentation, pregnancy dermatitis, or just feeling confused about what’s safe, you’re not alone.

The good news? Brands like SKN TO SKN are finally putting women’s health first, with pregnancy-safe skincare that’s smart, gentle, and actually designed for mums.

So go ahead, treat your skin to something as thoughtful as you are. You deserve it.