Skin Changes (Dark Spots, Acne, Linea Nigra)
Darkening of skin, acne, dark line on belly (linea nigra), and melasma. Caused by hormones affecting pigmentation.
Medically reviewed by healthcare professionals | Last reviewed: March 2026
📅 When It Occurs
Can begin any time, often second trimester for pigmentation changes
📊 How Common
Affects 50-70% of pregnant women
Overview
Pregnancy hormones can cause numerous skin changes, from the dark vertical line on your belly (linea nigra) to facial darkening (melasma or "pregnancy mask") to acne breakouts.
These changes are caused primarily by increased melanin production due to elevated hormone levels. Areas that are already pigmented (nipples, moles, freckles) often become darker.
Most skin changes are temporary and fade after delivery, though some (like stretch marks) may not completely disappear. Protecting your skin and maintaining a good skincare routine can help minimize changes.
📆 By Trimester
First Trimester
Acne may worsen, other changes minimal
Second Trimester
Pigmentation changes like linea nigra and melasma appear
Third Trimester
Pigmentation darkest, stretch marks may develop or worsen
🔍 What Causes It?
- •Increased estrogen and progesterone affecting melanin production
- •Higher levels of melanocyte-stimulating hormone
- •Increased blood flow to skin
- •Hormonal fluctuations causing acne
- •Oil glands producing more sebum
- •Sun exposure darkening pigmentation
💡 Relief Strategies
- ✓Use broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ daily
- ✓Wear hat and protective clothing in sun
- ✓Avoid tanning beds completely
- ✓Use gentle, pregnancy-safe skincare products
- ✓For acne: wash face twice daily with mild cleanser
- ✓Avoid picking or squeezing acne
- ✓Use oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers
- ✓Stay hydrated to keep skin healthy
- ✓Moisturize belly daily to reduce itching and stretch marks
- ✓Avoid harsh chemical peels or treatments
- ✓Most darkening will fade postpartum - be patient
🛍️ Comfort Products That May Help
Comfort and preparation products other expecting parents find helpful at this stage. These are convenience picks, not medical advice — always follow your provider's guidance.
Belly Butter / Stretch-Mark Cream
Rich cocoa-butter moisturizer to keep a growing belly comfortable and hydrated.
Check Price on Amazon →Amazon Associates Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. These recommendations are editorially chosen comfort and preparation products and are not medical advice.
⚠️ When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- ⚠Sudden appearance of new moles or changes in existing moles
- ⚠Severe itching with skin changes (possible cholestasis)
- ⚠Rash that spreads or doesn't improve
- ⚠Acne that's severe or cystic
- ⚠Skin infection (redness, warmth, pus)
- ⚠Desire for prescription acne treatment (many aren't safe in pregnancy)
Related Symptoms
📅 Explore by Trimester
Learn how this symptom and others change throughout your pregnancy journey: