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That Pregnant Glow

Keeping Your Skin Radiant and Healthy

By Jacqueline Rupp

Varicose veins and spider veins are another annoyance many pregnant women experience. They are, however, superficial, which means they pose no harm other than how they look. These veins appear on the legs due to increased circulatory pressure and blood volume, which pushes them to the skin's surface, making them more visible. If you must stand for several hours a day, Dr. Stevens suggests investing in a pair of medical grade compression socks or stockings. Although they might not be your favorite fashion choice, these socks may help to decrease the likelihood of getting varicose or spider veins on the legs.

"Some women may notice small spider veins or telangiectasias to appear on the face and hands as well," says Dr. Stevens. "Most of these will fade within a few months of delivery; those that don't will respond to a laser treatment."

Dry, itchy skin can become an irritating problem during pregnancy. Skin can become especially dry in areas around the belly and breasts where it is being stretched. "Pregnant women may experience dry itchy skin for the same reason many non-pregnant women do," says Dr. Stevens.

Harsh environmental factors such as low humidity, bathing with a harsh soap or one with many irritating fragrances and perfumes, bathing with excessively hot water, over-exfoliation with a bath cloth or loofah sponge and inadequate moisturization of the skin surface may all contribute to dry, flaky or itchy skin, says Dr. Stevens. To alleviate this bothersome problem, she suggests women adopt gentler bathing practices.

Want to see more?

• Liquid Health: Smart Nutrition for Thirsty Moms
• Creating Beauty from the Outside In: The Secret to Healthy, Radiant Skin
• Great Skin – From the Inside Out!: Nourish Your Skin with the Right Foods
• Talk about it!

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