In all likelihood, most of what you thought you knew about your body will change. And though it may seem unusual, know it’s perfectly normal for your skin and hair to behave differently.

There’s no way of really knowing how exactly your appearance will change during pregnancy (besides for, well, the obvious pregnancy belly!) Your hair and skin will most likely change throughout your pregnancy, and can differ from one pregnancy to another. In many cases, our experiences will be similar to our mother’s pregnancy symptoms, but not always, and there’s no way of really knowing until you’re there. Let’s have a look at how your skin and hair may change during pregnancy and why those changes may be taking place. 

How your hair may change during pregnancy

One of the most obvious changes will take place in your hair and scalp. As the months fly by you’ll notice different changes depending on the trimester you’re in and how you go about maintaining your hair. Let’s get into many of the ways your hair may change during pregnancy!

In the beginning you’ll probably notice an impressive decrease in hair loss and shedding. While it may feel like you’re growing thicker tresses, what’s actually happening is the hair that’s normally due to fall out to let new hairs in - remains, making the hair feel thicker overtime. The higher levels of estrogen in our bodies will prevent the hair from passing through the Telogen phase (the resting phase) and into the Exogen phase (the shedding phase). Our hair may appear thicker, shinier, curlier or straighten, just about anything is possible! 

1. Hair Loss 

If you are experiencing hair loss during pregnancy, then chances are, you may be deficient in essential vitamins and minerals like biotin and other B-vitamins. This is also perfectly normal because another human is growing inside of your very body. And at some point, your body starts prioritizing the growing child, who may get all the vitamins when there isn’t enough in your diet. If you notice excess shedding during pregnancy, you may want to go to the doctor to check your vitamin and mineral levels, to make sure you’re not deficient in those nutritious goodies. 

Because our hormones are changing, we may experience an overproduction of sebum oil by our roots and scalp. While this isn’t ideal, it is perfectly normal. If you’re experiencing oily hair, you may want to switch up your washing routine. You may decide to decrease the interval between washdays, or use lighter products in your hair. 

In the beginning you may not notice a dry scalp, but later on it may sneak up on you out of nowhere. One of the main reasons for dry scalp, is again, not having a sufficient supply of nutrients for both you and your baby. Your scalp is not the only reason why it’s important to choose healthy ingredients while you're pregnant, but it’ll certainly let you know that it’s time to amp up on leafy greens, lean proteins, fruit and seeds. Again, if you’re experiencing a dry scalp and it’s not usual for you, then you should speak to your doctor or health care professional about your vitamin and mineral levels. 

How your skin may change during pregnancy

Your skin may change in similar ways to your hair, since they’re not one in the same, but practically relatives. 

Many women experience what’s called a pregnancy glow. Because of the increase in estrogen and decrease in progesterone (basically the opposite from when you’re menstruating) you may notice clearer, more even skin. There is also an increase in circulation, which brings more nutrients to the surface of your skin, giving it that beautiful vibrancy. 

One of the most common pregnancy symptoms when it comes to the skin are stretch marks. You can prevent the appearance of stretch marks by applying natural butters like shea butter to your skin regularly before pregnancy, but it’s very difficult to prevent the appearance of any stretch marks on the skin. Stretch marks can appear on the belly, breasts, thighs, hips and arms. 

Similar to how you may experience unusually oily hair during pregnancy, you may also experience excess oil production on your face. If this is you, then you may want to use a clay mask like Vonetta Cosmetics’ Mineral Rejuvenating Mask or Oil/Acne Mask to soak up the oil and remove impurities from the skin. It works at soothing irritation and can be used on all skin types. 

Dry skin, like a dry scalp, may be due to a vitamin or mineral deficiency. If you typically have well balanced skin hydration, then you may want to speak to your healthcare professional about it and test your vitamin and mineral levels. 

Final Thoughts

What’s most important is to eat a healthy, well balanced diet to ensure you and your baby are getting all the vitamins and minerals needed to feel good and look good. Now is a great moment to pay close attention to the ways your body is changing. Observe it, and enjoy the unique and beautiful process of pregnancy. Most of us are used to our bodies changing all the time, with our cycles and rhythms, but now is a special time to reduce stress and embrace change, something (or someone) beautiful is on its way!