What Motherhood in Your 30’s and 40’s Does to Your Skin
Being a mother is an exciting, rewarding, and joyful part of life for many women across the world. You have the chance to raise a child, teach them right and wrong, watch them grow and learn. You also have someone to care for and love unconditionally. While motherhood in your 30’s and 40’s does come with many exciting times and memorable moments, it is also a lot of work. This can often take a toll on your body and your skin. Researchers even suggest that becoming a mother can age you faster than smoking. Mothers in their 30’s and 40’s, no matter how old your child or children are at that point, often notice more changes to their skin than younger mothers. Here are a few ways the stress and joy of motherhood in your 30’s and 40’s can affect your skin.
Stretch Marks
Whether you had a baby in your 30’s and 40’s or if you’re a few years removed from that process, stretch marks will most likely be present. During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes, including growing rapidly to allow room for the baby to grow. When the collagen in your skin stretches until it can’t stretch anymore, pesky stretch marks will appear. Stretch marks are common during pregnancy, but will fade over time. Sometimes they stick around for many years after you’ve given birth. If you’re self-conscious about your stretch marks, check out the many creams and ointments that treat scars and stretch marks. Also, speak with your dermatologist for additional options.
Dark Patches
One aspect of motherhood is the slight changing of your skin’s color. Also known as hyperpigmentation, these dark patches occur during pregnancy as your body is going through changes to prepare for the baby to grow. During pregnancy, your body is producing extra estrogen, which can involve an increase in skin pigment or melanin. The nipples, underarms, and the area around your genitals are the areas of skin that are typically impacted. Then, about 70% of women will even develop what’s called chloasma or the mask of pregnancy. This involves dark, splotchy patches appearing on the face, particularly on the cheeks and forehead. Most women notice that these patches disappear a few months after giving birth, while others will have them for years. It is not typically a medical concern, but some may want to get rid of them for cosmetic purposes. One of the best ways to prevent and cure chloasma is by using sunscreen on all exposed parts of the body at all times both before and after the baby is born. Try an SPF of 30 or higher for ideal results, and be sure to re-apply the product every two hours if you will be sweating, exercising, or swimming.
Signs of Aging and Wrinkles
Motherhood in your 30’s and 40’s is rewarding and fun, yet incredibly exhausting. Your skin is already beginning to age during this time in your life, and being a mother can speed up that process. The physical toll, stress, the many emotions experienced during this time, and sleepless nights, can lead to wrinkles and fine lines. All of this may leave your skin feeling dull, lifeless, and tired. If you’re starting to notice wrinkles and fine lines appearing on your skin during your 30’s and 40’s, be sure to look into anti-aging products that can boost your skin’s collagen and elasticity. Organic serums, creams, and products like the SABRINA Collagen Rx Anti-Aging Face Cream soften your skin, rebuild collagen, and leave your skin feeling healthy and vibrant. Tired moms can always benefit from some pampering!
Being a mom is exciting, no matter how old you are. It comes with happy times, challenges, and ups and downs throughout the years. Despite what it may do to your skin and body, most mothers will say the struggles are worth it. Whether you’re having a baby in your 20’s, 30’s, or 40’s, you have so much to look forward to. Just remember to take care of your skin and speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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