Let’s be real — there’s a lot they don’t tell you about life after having a baby. Like the fact that your skin might suddenly decide to throw a tantrum of its own. From breakouts to dryness, pigmentation to puffiness, it’s all part of the ride… and most of us are too tired to deal with it properly.
But if you’ve caught a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and thought, “Yikes, when did that happen?” – you’re not alone. The good news? A few simple tweaks (and maybe a facial you don’t sleep through) can help your skin bounce back.
Here’s how to show your post-baby face a little love.
1. Know What You’re Dealing With
After pregnancy, your hormone levels take a nosedive, and your skin doesn’t always take it well. Common post-baby issues include:
- Dryness and dehydration
- Loss of firmness or glow
- Hormonal acne
- Pigmentation (hello, melasma)
And while some of it settles down with time, there’s no harm in giving nature a nudge.
2. Keep It Simple
Between nappy changes and night feeds, a 10-step skincare routine isn’t happening. Keep it basic:
- Cleanse with something gentle and hydrating
- Moisturise with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides
- Sunscreen every day (yes, even if you don’t leave the house)
That’s it. No pressure, no fuss. Just small wins that make your skin feel like yours again.
3. Consider a Confidence Boost
If you’re feeling flat and want your glow back fast, a good facial can make a world of difference. One of our favourite real-mum reviews comes from Emma at Experience Beauty who shared her honest take on the Dermasweep facial at Liberty Belle Skin Centre. While it’s Melbourne-based, the treatment itself (microdermabrasion, serum infusion, and LED therapy) is something you can ask about locally too.
It’s great for dull, tired, sleep-deprived skin (so… most of us?) and it won’t leave you red or peeling. Just hydrated and fresh.
4. Melasma? You’re Not Imagining It
Pigmentation around your cheeks, forehead, or upper lip? It’s not just a “mum shadow”, it could be melasma, and it’s super common. Look for ingredients like:
- Vitamin C to brighten
- Niacinamide to soothe and even skin tone
- Azelaic acid (safe while breastfeeding)
Skip harsh treatments like retinol unless your doc gives you the go-ahead.
5. Hydration and Sleep (We Know, We Know)
Yes, it’s obvious. And yes, it’s hard. But drinking water and catching a nap when you can really does make a difference. Even 10 quiet minutes to yourself with a cold cloth on your face can feel like therapy.
Bottom line? You’re still in there.
Motherhood is wild and wonderful and all-consuming, but it doesn’t mean you have to forget about you. So if your skin’s feeling rough, be kind to it. Keep it simple, give it a little love, and know that every small effort counts.
And if you’re in the mood to treat yourself, a facial might be just the thing.
