Pregnancy changes a lot—your routine, your cravings, and yes, your skin. That pregnancy glow? It often comes with a side of increased sun sensitivity, unexpected burns, and stubborn patches of melasma. Even a short stroll outdoors can leave your skin feeling irritated or looking blotchy, thanks to the hormonal shifts happening inside your body.
To help you protect your skin safely and effectively during this time, we turned to Dr. Stephanie Taylor, Board-certified Dermatologist and Senior Consultant at Medpak Solutions. With over 12 years of experience, Dr. Taylor is known for her evidence-based approach to skincare and her commitment to improving patient outcomes through thoughtful, science-backed solutions.
In this expert Q&A, Dr. Taylor answers your most pressing questions about sunscreen ingredients, melasma, vitamin D, and what to do if sunburn sneaks up on you during pregnancy.
Cradlewise: Why is pregnant skin more sensitive to the sun?
Dr. Taylor: Blame the hormones! During pregnancy, your body produces increased amounts of estrogen and progesterone. These two hormones can make your skin hypersensitive to sunlight. Even women who never get burned may find themselves itchy, red, or blotchy after only a few moments outdoors. I’ve had patients tell me, “I was only outside for 10 minutes!”, and, yes, it’s visible on their skin. Your skin barrier is weakened, so your skin takes the impact harder than ever before.
Cradlewise: Are there ingredients in sunscreens that pregnant women should avoid?
Dr. Taylor: Yes, particularly oxybenzone and octinoxate. These can be absorbed into your system and interfere with your hormones. That’s why, at Medpak Solutions, we take a special effort to make our formulas clean, safe, and pregnancy-safe. Opt for sunscreens that are “mineral,” “reef-safe,” or “fragrance-free.” These are generally your best bets.
Cradlewise: What is the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens? Should I use one or the other?
Dr. Taylor: Chemical sunscreens, on the contrary, operate by absorbing the UV rays and then dispersing them as heat. Mineral sunscreens, however, form a protective layer on your skin and reflect the rays off. I always recommend my pregnant patients use mineral formulas containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They are less likely to irritate or create an allergic reaction and are gentler and safer.
Cradlewise: How does sun exposure during pregnancy affect skin conditions like melasma?
Dr. Taylor: That’s melasma, a really common pregnancy skin condition. It typically appears as brown or gray patches on your cheeks, forehead, or upper lip. The sun makes it darken and stand out. I’ve seen a lot of women wait to treat it later on, but it’s much easier to prevent than it is to repair. A solid mineral sunscreen, a large-brimmed hat, and staying under shade can significantly help. At Medpak Solutions, we’re developing products that help take care of melasma-prone skin using gentle ingredients.
Cradlewise: Can vitamin D deficiency be a concern if pregnant women avoid sun exposure?
Dr. Taylor: That’s a reasonable concern, and one I hear frequently. Yes, sun can help your body produce vitamin D, which is necessary for you and your baby. However, you don’t have to scorch under the sun to get it. A brief walk during early morning or a supplement (ask your doctor first, though!) often does the trick. You can be protected and still be healthy.
Cradlewise: How should a pregnant woman treat a sunburn safely?
Dr. Taylor: First, don’t panic. It’s bound to happen. Avoid the irritating after-sun gels containing numbing ingredients like lidocaine. Opt for aloe vera, cool compresses, and hydration. Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers only. Your skin is stressed already, keep it simple. Here’s what you can tell yourself: treat your skin like you would your baby’s skin. Soft, gentle, and drama-free.
Pregnancy might be a rollercoaster, your skin doesn’t have to be. I can help you guard it, adore it, and feel fabulous in it.
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