Our 5 tips for avoiding the pregnancy mask this summer

You've been waiting for the sun… Now that it's shining, you want to make the most of it. But you're pregnant. You've heard about the pregnancy mask, without really knowing what it is or how to avoid it. The Charlie team explains everything…

What is the pregnancy mask?

The pregnancy mask, or chloasma by its scientific name (yes, yet another little inconvenience of pregnancy), appears as brownish patches around the 5th month of pregnancy. The cause? Sun exposure. These marks appear on the forehead, cheeks, around the eyes, mouth, and chin, forming what looks like a mask. This reaction is due to a high concentration of female hormones during pregnancy.

Indeed, the rise in pregnancy hormones, particularly higher levels of oestrogen and progesterone, stimulates the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colouration. In some women, this increased production leads to areas of hyperpigmentation.

The trouble with the pregnancy mask is that it can take a long time to fade, and sometimes these marks may not flatter you.

How to avoid the pregnancy mask?

To avoid the pregnancy mask, here are a few simple and effective tips:

1. Say goodbye to direct sun exposure
   Sorry to break it to you, but direct sunlight is the enemy of chloasma. If you need to be outdoors, protect yourself carefully by avoiding direct exposure. A parasol is your best ally. Set your baby up in their LEVO bouncer beside you and enjoy the shade together.
2. Your sun cream is about to become your best friend!
   Regularly apply a broad-spectrum sun cream with a high protection factor — ideally SPF 50 — and don't forget to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or if you've been sweating.
3. Combine fashion and sun protection
   When out and about, wear a wide-brimmed hat and category 3 or 4 sunglasses to protect your face from UV rays. Choose styles that cover the sides of your face for optimal protection.
4. Adopt a proper skincare routine
   Choose gentle, non-aggressive products. You can cleanse your face with soap-free products and apply moisturisers suited to sensitive skin. Avoid products containing irritating ingredients that may cause allergic reactions, as well as aggressive treatments such as chemical peels.
5. Water is life
   We won't tell you anything new by saying you should drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet, but just in case, we'll say it again… Stay hydrated! Water promotes cell renewal.

And what if you already have a pregnancy mask?

We want to reassure you: the pregnancy mask is not dangerous. It affects around 70% of pregnant women and generally fades after childbirth or in the months that follow. If the patches persist, you can consult your dermatologist, who will be able to advise you and, if necessary, prescribe an appropriate treatment.

In the meantime, keep protecting your skin from the sun and care for it gently. Enjoy every moment of your pregnancy by taking good care of yourself and following these simple tips to keep your skin glowing.

The Charlie Crane team