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 Crane team explains everything…

What is the pregnancy mask?

The pregnancy mask, or chloasma by its scientific name (yes, yet another little pregnancy concern), 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 a mask-like pattern. This reaction is due to a high concentration of female hormones during pregnancy.

Indeed, the increase in pregnancy hormones — particularly higher levels of estrogen and progesterone — stimulates the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin coloration. In some women, this increased production leads to hyperpigmented patches.

The problem with the pregnancy mask is that it can take a long time to fade, and sometimes these marks may not be particularly flattering.

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 sun is the enemy of chloasma. If you need to be outdoors, protect yourself carefully by avoiding direct exposure. A parasol is your best ally. Settle baby in their LEVO bouncer beside you and enjoy the shade together.
2. Your sunscreen is about to become your best friend!
   Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor regularly — ideally SPF 50 — and don't forget to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or when 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 models 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 moisturizers suited to sensitive skin. Avoid products containing irritating ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions, as well as harsh 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 still get a pregnancy mask?

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

In the meantime, keep protecting your skin from the sun and caring for it gently. Enjoy every moment of your pregnancy by taking good care of yourself and following these small tips to maintain a radiant complexion.

The Charlie Crane team