High temperatures and humidity can complicate pregnancy skincare routines as hormones increase sensitivity and melanin production, making heat a catalyst for breakouts, melasma and persistent irritation. To keep your routine simple, effective and safe, MOJEH speaks with Dr. Victoria Scott-Lang, Dermatologist at Cornerstone Clinic, on how to navigate summer skincare when you’re expecting.
While pregnancy increases one’s natural glow through heightened blood flow, summer conditions often turn that extra moisture into excess oil and clogged pores. “Pregnancy hormones make the skin more reactive and stimulate melanin production, which is why conditions such as melasma are so common,” explains Dr. Scott-Lang. “Add heat and humidity into the mix, and you also get increased sweating, oil production and friction.”
Managing these seasonal flare-ups relies on daily habits rather than aggressive spot treatments. Keeping cool with fans or air conditioning, avoiding outdoor workouts during peak heat and opting for loose-fitting clothing will all help maintain the skin’s balance throughout the warmer months. Post-sweat care is equally important to prevent irritation from settling in: wash sweat off promptly with a gentle cleanser, stick to non-comedogenic formulas and sunscreen and avoid picking at breakouts, which can trigger long-term pigmentation.
Revamping your routine starts with identifying which formulas to pause. High-potency active ingredients that you loved pre-pregnancy can now cause severe irritation or carry safety risks when exposed to sunlight. “Pregnant women should avoid retinoids, including retinol, retinal and prescription vitamin A creams,” states Dr. Scott-Lang. “Although only a very small amount is absorbed through the skin, they are avoided as a precaution because vitamin A derivatives can affect fetal development.” High-strength chemical peels and concentrated salicylic acid treatments should also be set aside.
Pausing retinoids does not mean forfeiting targeted skin results. Gentle, pregnancy-safe alternatives refine texture and address dark spots without triggering inflammation. Azelaic acid is an excellent, expert-approved ingredient for clearing breakouts and improving an uneven skin tone, while glycolic acid and niacinamide offer safe routes to radiance. If stubborn breakouts persist, low-strength 2% salicylic acid cleansers or toners remain an acceptable option.
On the body, rapidly stretching skin across the abdomen often feels tight and itchy. In humid weather, heavy body balms or oils trap heat against the skin, compounding discomfort. “Look for a lotion rather than a rich cream, as lotions are lighter and generally more comfortable in warm weather,” suggests Dr. Scott-Lang. “Fragrance-free products containing ceramides and glycerin help support the skin barrier and reduce dryness and itching. While no moisturiser has been proven to prevent stretch marks, keeping the skin well hydrated can certainly improve comfort.”
Friction and heat rash present another common hurdle, with tailored clothing a classic culprit. Choosing breathable fabrics like loose cotton or linen and wearing anti-chafing shorts under dresses blocks friction before it starts. If heat rash develops, look to cool showers, cold compresses and fragrance-free moisturisers to help quickly soothe the area.
If you plan on topping-up your self-tan this summer, take caution. Self-tanners are best avoided during the first trimester due to limited safety data, while spray tans should be ruled out entirely to avoid inhalation risks. “Personally, I encourage women to embrace their natural skin colour and enjoy their pregnancy without feeling they have to maintain an artificial tan,” adds Dr. Scott-Lang.
In-clinic aesthetic appointments also require a more conservative approach. Fluctuating hormone levels can make skin react unpredictably, increasing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from harsh procedures. Dr. Scott-Lang recommends gentle hydrating facials, but procedures like microneedling, lasers and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) should be put on pause.
At its core, a summer pregnancy routine relies on consistent photoprotection. Keeping melasma under control comes down to one non-negotiable step: “My answer is always the same: sunscreen, sunscreen and more sunscreen,” Dr. Scott-Lang emphasises, noting that a wide-brimmed hat makes the ideal fourth layer of defense.
A summer pregnancy arrives with its own set of challenges, but dry, uncomfortable skin doesn’t have to be one of them. Stick to lightweight products, breathable fabrics and broad-spectrum sun protection for a worry-free skincare routine that will safely see you through.
