With the UK enduring another heatwave in August 2025, pregnant women face unique challenges in staying comfortable and managing skin changes. Soaring temperatures can exacerbate pregnancy-related skin sensitivity, making cooling strategies essential. Cult Beauty has partnered with skincare experts Elizabeth Japal, a qualified pharmacist and founder of The Derma Lab, and Trifonia Asmar, an in-house beauty expert currently pregnant, to offer practical advice for expectant mothers.

Why heat intensifies pregnancy skin changes

Pregnancy often brings skin changes like increased sensitivity, dryness, pigmentation (melasma), redness, or breakouts. High temperatures can worsen these issues. “Heat can cause blood vessels to dilate, making redness more visible, while excess sweat can increase the risk of breakouts or irritation,” explains Elizabeth Japal. “Add in the hormonal changes of pregnancy, and your skin may need extra TLC to stay comfortable.”

Expert cooling tips for pregnant women

Trifonia Asmar, drawing from her own pregnancy experience, shares effective ways to stay cool and maintain healthy skin during a heatwave:

• Keep a facial mist on hand. Opt for a hydrating mist with soothing ingredients like rose, lemon balm, or chamomile to instantly refresh and calm flushed skin. Store it in the fridge for an extra cooling boost when temperatures peak.
• Drink plenty of water. Increase water intake and include hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and berries to replenish lost fluids and prevent overheating. Sip small amounts regularly to maintain steady hydration levels.
• Stay protected. Use a mineral SPF with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to shield sensitive skin. Choose SPF 30 or higher, reapply every two hours, and pair with lightweight clothing and a sun hat.
• Use cool compresses. Apply a clean, damp cloth or chilled gel pack to pulse points like wrists, neck, or behind the knees to lower body temperature quickly. This also helps relieve swelling in the feet and ankles.
• Rest in a shaded cool space. Limit outdoor time during peak heat and take regular breaks to regulate body temperature. Indoors, use a fan or open windows during cooler parts of the day for air circulation.
• Keep your home cool. Close curtains and windows during the hottest hours to block heat. Open them in the evening when temperatures drop to let cooler air in, then reverse the process in the morning.
• Cool down key areas. Dip hands, wrists, feet, and underarms into ice water for a quick temperature drop. This cools blood circulating through these areas, refreshing the whole body.
• Sleep comfortably in the heat. Place sleepwear and pillowcases in the freezer for 15–20 minutes before bed to make warm nights more bearable.

Choosing safe skincare products

Selecting pregnancy-safe skincare is crucial, especially in high temperatures when skin is more vulnerable. “The best way to understand which skin care products are safe during pregnancy is to consult your GP, midwife, or pharmacist and look for reputable brands that specify pregnancy-safe formulations,” says Japal. This ensures products are free from harmful ingredients while addressing sensitivity and hydration needs.

Staying safe in the heat

Beyond skincare, maintaining overall comfort during a heatwave is vital for pregnant women. Regular hydration, avoiding peak heat hours, and using cooling techniques can prevent overheating, which is particularly risky during pregnancy. The NHS advises pregnant women to stay in cool environments and monitor for signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness or excessive fatigue, seeking medical advice if symptoms arise.

These expert tips, grounded in practical experience and professional knowledge, empower expectant mothers to navigate heatwaves confidently while keeping their skin healthy and comfortable.