Oily Skin Problems
by Dr. Sandra Johnson, Johnson Dermatology

Q: Why does my skin seem more oily (or more dry) since I had my baby?

A: Stress, big hormonal swings, and the fatigue of new parenthood can put a new mom's skin through the wringer. Some women who had perfectly clear skin during pregnancy will have more breakouts in the months following delivery. Others will have noticeably drier skin.

The biggest issue for many of my patients is that they just don't have as much time to care for their skin now that they're caring for a new baby. You may want to experiment with a new cleanser and moisturizer. In general, mild formulas such as Dove and Oil of Olay are inexpensive and effective. You can also use a lotion or a cream that contains 12 percent lactic acid as an occasional exfoliant.

If you're having trouble with acne, stick with oil-free cosmetics. Heavier formulas can clog pores and contribute to the problem.

Something else to consider: Dry skin can be a symptom of an underactive thyroid, a condition that affects about 2 to 5 percent of new moms in the year after they give birth. Your healthcare provider can do a quick blood test to find out whether you have this condition.

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