Postpartum Skin Care: Common Skin Problems and How to Treat Them

After giving birth, a mother's body has to adjust to major hormonal changes. During pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone rise sharply, then drop quickly after delivery. This change affects the skin, hair and the body as a whole. Most postpartum skin problems are normal and resolve on their own once hormones return to balance, but some need appropriate care, especially in breastfeeding mothers, where the baby's safety must come first.

Common Skin Problems After Childbirth

• Postpartum hair loss (Telogen Effluvium): The most common problem. The drop in estrogen pushes hair quickly from the Anagen (growth) phase into the Telogen (resting) phase. Increased shedding is usually most noticeable 3-4 months after delivery.

• Melasma: It may darken or appear for the first time on the face and around the mouth, caused by increased melanin (Melanin) production, so sun exposure should be avoided.

• Dry skin: Caused by a reduction in the skin's natural oils, leaving the skin lacking moisture.

• Stretch marks: Caused by the skin being stretched during pregnancy, usually on the abdomen, thighs and breasts.

• Postpartum acne: In some women, acne may return or appear for the first time after delivery because of increased androgen hormones.

• Itchy, chemical-sensitive skin: Caused by changes in skin moisture, and the skin may become more easily irritated during this period.

Does Postpartum Hair Loss Go Away on Its Own?

Postpartum hair loss (Telogen Effluvium) usually resolves on its own within 3-6 months as hormones return to normal, although for some women it can take up to 12 months. In the meantime, care for your hair gently as follows.

• Shampoo and conditioner: Choose gentle formulas and avoid ingredients that irritate the scalp.

• Hair care: Avoid tight hairstyles or pulling the hair, and wash your hair with warm, not very hot, water.

• When to see a doctor: If hair loss does not stop after 6 months, or does not improve after you stop breastfeeding, see a doctor to look for other causes.

Safe Skin Care While Breastfeeding

The most important thing during breastfeeding is the baby's safety, because some ingredients in skin care products may pass into breast milk. Choose ingredients that are considered safe.

• Safe for breastfeeding: Glycerin, Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide, Centella asiatica, Ceramides, Zinc oxide, Titanium dioxide, low-concentration Azelaic acid, and low-concentration Adapalene (Differin).

• Treating acne with care: Benzoyl peroxide is mostly not absorbed and is therefore considered safe, and a small amount of Salicylic acid is considered safe for breastfeeding.

• Should be avoided: Tretinoin (Retinoic acid), Isotretinoin (Accutane), high-concentration Retinol, Hydroquinone (may pass into breast milk), high-concentration Salicylic acid, strong Chemical peels, and most Essential oils.

When to See a Dermatologist

• Chronic hair loss: Hair loss that does not stop after 6 months.

• Rash and itching: A severe rash, or skin that itches constantly.

• Signs of infection: An infected delivery wound, or stretch marks that are red and swollen.

• Severe acne: Severe acne that does not improve with basic home care (Home care).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does postpartum hair loss go away on its own? Generally, yes. Postpartum Telogen Effluvium usually recovers within 3-6 months as hormones return to normal, and for some women it can take up to 12 months. If hair loss does not stop after 6 months, or does not improve after you stop breastfeeding, see a doctor.

Can I use acne creams while breastfeeding? You need to choose safe ingredients. Benzoyl peroxide is mostly not absorbed and is therefore considered safe, and a small amount of Salicylic acid is considered safe, but you should avoid Tretinoin, Isotretinoin and high-concentration Retinol because they may affect the baby.

Does postpartum melasma go away on its own? Some postpartum melasma may fade on its own as hormones return to balance, but regular sun protection is essential. If the melasma remains dark, consult a doctor to choose a treatment that is safe while breastfeeding.

Can postpartum stretch marks be treated? New stretch marks that are still red are more likely to respond to treatment than old white ones. If stretch marks are red or unusually swollen, see a doctor for an assessment.

Most postpartum skin problems resolve on their own once the body's hormones rebalance, but choosing products that are safe while breastfeeding and caring for your skin the right way can help your skin and hair recover faster. If you have questions about product safety or your symptoms are not improving, consult a dermatologist at Siam Dermatology, tel. +66 61 448 7000 or LINE @siamderm.

Written by Dr. Patara Voravutinon, Dermatologist · Last reviewed July 16, 2026