Dry skin during pregnancy

Hormonal and skin-barrier changes can make skin feel tight, rough, or itchy. Heat, frequent bathing, dry indoor air, and fragranced products may add irritation. New patches can also reflect atopic dermatitis, asteatotic eczema, or psoriasis rather than pregnancy alone. The location, appearance, itch, and timing of the rash help a clinician narrow the possibilities.

Use short lukewarm showers, pat the skin dry, and apply a fragrance-free cream or ointment soon afterwards. Choose mild cleansers and loose, breathable clothing. Avoid starting medicated creams, essential oils, or acne products without checking whether they are suitable during pregnancy. Tell your maternity or dermatology clinician about every medicine and skincare product you use; emollient therapy is commonly discussed for barrier support.

Contact your maternity or medical team promptly if itching becomes intense, widespread, or especially prominent on the palms or soles, or if a new rash is rapidly changing. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, blistering, fever, skin pain, or involvement around the eyes. A persistent rash deserves assessment even when it seems mild.

Which moisturiser is suitable for my pregnancy? Could this be eczema, psoriasis, or product irritation? Are any current creams or medicines best paused, changed, or continued?