Week 16 • Second Trimester
Skin Darkening (Melasma, Linea Nigra) at Week 16
Darker skin patches on face, dark line on belly
📆 Second Trimester Overview
Linea nigra appears, melasma may develop
🔍 What Causes Skin Darkening (Melasma, Linea Nigra) at Week 16?
- •Increased melanin production
- •Hormones stimulating pigment cells
- •Sun exposure worsening it
- •Genetic factors
✓ Normal Signs
- ✓Dark line down belly (linea nigra)
- ✓Darker areolas and nipples
- ✓Face darkening (melasma)
- ✓Darker freckles/moles
- ✓Resolves after pregnancy
⚠ Concerning Signs
- ⚠Rapidly changing or irregular mole
- ⚠Painful skin changes
- ⚠Bleeding from mole
💊 Relief Strategies
- ✓Use sunscreen daily (SPF 30+)
- ✓Wear hat when outdoors
- ✓Avoid tanning
- ✓Don't use bleaching creams during pregnancy
- ✓Accept as temporary
- ✓Fades significantly after delivery
🏥 When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- ⚠Rapidly changing or irregular mole
- ⚠New mole that looks unusual
- ⚠Bleeding or painful mole
- ⚠Any concerning skin changes