Tips to look great during pregnancy

London, February 27: Emotional upheaval and changing body shape can be tough to work around when it comes to looking good when you are having a baby, but the increased hormone levels, and blood flow in your body works wonders for the skin and hair. Here’s how you can work it.

Be beautiful at every stage

Pregnancy can be the most beautiful phase of your life; you just have to take a little extra care. The way pregnancy changes your appearance can be both wonderful and scary.

First Trimester

The first trimester is often the most difficult for women when your body is getting ready for the coming changes. Skin tends to get more sensitive. So change your skin care regime and shift to gentle moisturisers, and soap-free cleansers.
Look for fragrance-free products and avoid whitening, anti-ageing, or anti-acne creams as the chemical compositions may react on your skin due to heightened levels of hormones.
Treat yourself to a soothing facial and pedicure. Ask your therapist to use unscented creams. Simple cold cream is one of the best options as they are harmless and gentle on the skin. Avoid harsh face scrubs.
This is the time when skin gets very dry, especially on your body. Shift to heavy-duty hand and body lotion. You may need to increase the number of times you moisturise your skin.
Second Trimester

By the time you enter the second trimester, your body gets attuned to the changes, and the hormone levels get adjusted. Your skin gets a rosy glow, and for most the skin clears up.
Since the bump starts to show, your skin around the stomach gets stretched. Avoid getting stretchmarks by using creams or oils rich in vitamin E. It helps in keeping the skin’s texture firm.
One of the best sources of vitamin E is almond oil. Gently massage in a little oil every time you get an urge to scratch your skin.
Get a help at home to regularly massage your legs as well with the same oil to deal with swollen limbs and varicose veins.

-Agencies