Why is my skin turning darker?

The BabyCenter editorial team

Our panel of health writers.

Noticing that areas of your skin are turning darker is often one of the first signs of pregnancy. It is known as chloasma, and is caused by your body making extra melanin, the tanning hormone. Melanin helps to protect your skin against ultraviolet (UV) light. Around three-quarters of mums-to-be notice changes in skin tone, so it's very common.

The pigmentation usually appears on your forehead, cheeks, and neck. If you're darker-skinned, the patches may appear lighter than your normal skin colour.

It you're lighter-skinned, being out in the sun will darken the patches and make them more visible. To protect your skin, put on a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more, and carry an umbrella or use a dupatta, scarf or hat whenever you go out.

If the patches make you feel self-conscious, try blending them to your general skin tone with a tinted moisturiser, BB (blemish balm) cream or foundation.

Your nipples and surrounding skin (areolas) will probably darken, too. This is due to increased blood supply caused by your pregnancy. You may also notice moles and freckles becoming darker.

Once you're in your second trimester, you may develop a vertical line running down the middle of your belly (the linea nigra). This line can be up to 1cm wide, sometimes crossing your navel. Like chloasma, it is caused by pigmentation due to hormone changes. The pigment accumulates where your abdominal muscles stretch and separate slightly to give your baby more room.

These changes are all harmless, and won't need treatment. Rest assured that your linea nigra should fade within a few weeks of your baby's birth, and your skin patches within three months.


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