Pregnancy & Skin in Brisbane

Specialist Dermatologist Care During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnancy is associated with a wide range of skin changes. Some are normal and temporary, while others may cause significant discomfort or require medical assessment and treatment.

At Your Dermatologist, skin conditions during pregnancy and breastfeeding are managed with a careful, evidence-based approach, prioritising maternal comfort, foetal safety, and clear communication.

How pregnancy affects the skin

Hormonal, immune and vascular changes during pregnancy can affect the skin, hair and nails in many ways. These changes may:

  • Trigger new skin conditions

  • Worsen or improve pre-existing conditions

  • Alter pigmentation, hair growth or sensitivity

Most pregnancy-related skin changes are benign, but some require specialist assessment.

Common pregnancy-related skin concerns

Pregnant patients may seek assessment for:

  • New or worsening rashes

  • Itch (with or without visible rash)

  • Pigmentation changes (including melasma)

  • Acne or acne flares

  • Eczema or psoriasis changes

  • Stretch marks and skin texture changes

  • Hair shedding or changes in hair growth

Some skin conditions are specific to pregnancy, while others are common conditions influenced by hormonal change.

Why specialist assessment matters in pregnancy

Skin care during pregnancy requires particular caution because:

  • Some medications and treatments are not suitable in pregnancy or breastfeeding

  • Symptoms such as itch may occasionally indicate systemic conditions that require investigation

  • Pre-existing skin diseases may need treatment adjustment

Specialist assessment helps to:

  • Establish an accurate diagnosis

  • Distinguish benign pregnancy-related changes from conditions requiring treatment

  • Select therapies with an appropriate safety profile

  • Avoid unnecessary or unsafe treatments

At Your Dermatologist, recommendations are made conservatively and based on current evidence.

Management approach during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Management is individualised and may include:

Education and reassurance

Many pregnancy-related skin changes are temporary. Clear explanation and reassurance are often an important part of care.

Topical treatments

Where treatment is required, topical therapies may be used selectively, with careful consideration of:

  • Pregnancy safety categories

  • Area of application

  • Duration of use

Systemic treatments

Systemic medications are used only when clearly indicated and after careful discussion of risks and benefits. Many systemic treatments are avoided during pregnancy unless essential.

Post-pregnancy planning

For some conditions, definitive treatment may be deferred until after delivery or breastfeeding, with interim measures used to control symptoms.

What results can be expected?

The aim of dermatological care during pregnancy is to:

  • Relieve symptoms

  • Maintain skin health

  • Avoid harm to mother or baby

Some conditions resolve after pregnancy, while others may persist and require ongoing management.

What to expect at your consultation

Your consultation will include:

  • A detailed medical, obstetric and skin history

  • Review of current medications and treatments

  • Focused skin examination

  • Discussion of safe management options

  • Clear guidance on what to expect during and after pregnancy

Coordination with your GP or obstetric care provider may be recommended where appropriate.

Your Dermatologist Your derm Dr Zachary Boyce East Brisbane Dermatology

Care for your skin during Pregnancy in Brisbane

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and experiencing skin concerns, specialist dermatology assessment can help clarify what is normal, what requires treatment, and what options are safe.

At Your Dermatologist, pregnancy-related skin care is measured, evidence-based and focused on safety, comfort and long-term skin health.