Just like the rest of your body, your complexion can take a long time to get back to normal (whatever that was for you) after you've delivered. That rosy mom-to-be glow (caused by estrogen-fueled blood flow to your skin) may be gone, possibly replaced by postpartum acne (thanks a lot) due again to hormonal swings (plus stress, sleep deprivation and about zero time for skin care). And what about those dark splotches on your forehead, upper lip and cheeks, which have yet to fade — will they ever?

For most women, they will. Those patches (known as melasma, or the mask of pregnancy) are caused by an increase in the production of melanin, a skin pigment, during pregnancy. The good news is your body will eventually stop making so much melanin (though that might not happen until after you wean) and then those darned splotches should start to fade.

To help this process along, stay out of the sun as much as possible, and wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen (that blocks both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of at least 30 every day, rain or shine. (Another option: a moisturizer or foundation with sun block in it.) This advice holds true even after your splotches have faded, since dark spots are more likely to return once you've had them. Even more important: Regular use of sunscreen protects against skin cancer (and wrinkles!). If you're back on the pill, ask your practitioner about switching to an estrogen-free variety (like the progestin-only "mini pill" or a progesterone injection), since estrogen can sometimes make melasma worse.

Be sure to cleanse your skin gently twice a day to help prevent blemishes. (Zits, too? Argh!) If you do break out, try a product with benzoyl peroxide or glycolic acid (both are fine for nursing mothers) but skip salicylic-acid-based formulas until you've weaned, just to be on the safe side. Your complexion will also benefit from oil-free (non-pore-clogging) cosmetics, and a diet that contains lots of fruits and vegetables, vitamin B2, and plenty of water.


One more thing to keep in mind: Your baby thinks you're beautiful — stretch marks, freckles and all!