Taking care of yourself in summer during pregnancy: the products and habits that make a difference

Summer during pregnancy can be one of the most beautiful seasons, but also one of the most challenging. 

The heat is felt more intensely, your skin changes, your legs swell, and your body requires different kinds of care... 

Taking care of yourself during these special months is essential to feel comfortable and face the heat with greater peace of mind. 

In this guide, you'll find the products and habits that truly make a difference, from skin hydration to clothing, from sun protection to your daily routine.

Your skin in summer during pregnancy: what changes

During pregnancy, your skin undergoes significant changes, and the sun accentuates them. Pregnancy hormones make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation, increasing the risk of hyperpigmentation and skin spots, known as pregnancy melasma or the mask of pregnancy. Your belly grows rapidly, putting the skin's elasticity to the test and encouraging the appearance of stretch marks. Heat increases sweating and can irritate areas of friction. 

All this requires a slightly more attentive skincare routine than usual, but not necessarily a complicated one...

Skin hydration: the foundation of everything

The first habit to adopt, and the most important, is to moisturize your skin every day. Well-hydrated skin is more elastic, withstands the stretching caused by your growing belly better, and reduces the risk of itching, a very common discomfort in summer during pregnancy when the skin is already under tension.

The best time to moisturize is right after a shower, when your skin is still slightly damp and absorbs active ingredients more effectively. Massage it in with circular motions, especially on your belly, hips, and breasts: the areas that change the most. In summer, it's best to choose lightweight formulas, such as gels or lotions, that absorb quickly without leaving your skin sticky in the heat.

Stretch marks during pregnancy: prevention and care

Stretch marks are one of the concerns that worry pregnant women the most, especially in summer when the skin is more exposed. 

The truth is that genetic predisposition plays an important role: some women develop them almost inevitably, while others do not. That said, a good skincare routine can make a difference in limiting their severity and keeping your skin in better condition.

The stretch mark serum is one of the most effective tools for prevention. Compared to traditional creams, serums have a higher concentration of active ingredients and a lighter texture, ideal for summer when you prefer to avoid heavy formulas. 

Apply it with a gentle massage, not only on your belly but also on your hips, thighs, and breasts, the areas most prone to stretching.

A little tip: start using it as soon as possible. Stretch marks tend to appear from the fourth or fifth month onward, when your belly begins to grow rapidly. Starting a prevention routine as early as the first trimester gives your skin more time to adapt.

Be careful with the sun on stretch marks: sun exposure can darken those already present and make them more noticeable. If you go to the beach or the pool, always protect the affected areas with an appropriate sunscreen.

Sun protection during pregnancy: don't compromise

In summer, sun protection is always important, but during pregnancy it is even more so. As already mentioned, your skin is more sensitive to UV radiation, and the risk of developing skin spots is greater. Sun protection is non-negotiable: SPF 50 or 50+ for your body and face.

Some practical tips:

• Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before exposure, not right before you go out.
• Reapply it every two hours, and every time you get out of the water, even if you use waterproof products.
• Avoid the middle of the day, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when radiation is most intense.
• Cover your belly with a one-piece swimsuit or a light pareo during the hours of strongest sun.
• Don't forget your face: use a sunscreen specifically formulated for the face that won't clog your pores.

A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses protect your face during hours at the beach and significantly reduce the risk of melasma.

Summer clothing: stay cool without sacrificing comfort

Clothing is an integral part of taking care of yourself in summer during pregnancy. A garment that traps heat, pinches in the wrong places, or requires constant adjustments throughout the day affects your well-being much more than you might think.

The most useful summer garments are those designed for the pregnant body: made to fit your belly, breathable, and comfortable to wear. The Solvea summer maternity clothing collection includes the most practical pieces for the warm season:

Maternity tank tops: the maternity tank top is the foundation of a summer wardrobe. Available in a long version, worn on its own or paired with shorts, and a short version to pair with high-waisted leggings. Cool, practical, and easy to style.

Maternity shorts: the maternity shorts cover the upper part of your legs, support your belly with their waistband, and leave your ankles free, where swelling tends to concentrate. Perfect for home, a walk, or light exercise.

Maternity short romper: the maternity short romper is one of the most practical summer garments: a single piece that you can slip on in thirty seconds, covers your belly with its waistband, and leaves your legs free. Great for yoga, Pilates, and everyday wear.

Maternity swimsuit: for the beach and pool, the maternity swimsuit is an essential garment. It adapts to your belly, supports your breasts, and stays in place even in the water.

Your daily care routine: a practical summary

Creating a routine doesn't have to be complicated. Here is a simple outline you can adapt to your habits:

Morning:

• A cool or lukewarm shower, not hot.
• Apply the stretch mark serum or moisturizing cream to your belly, hips, and breasts.
• Apply sunscreen to your face and exposed areas before going out.
• Choose cool, comfortable garments designed for the pregnant body.

During the day:

• Drink water regularly; don't wait until you're thirsty.
• Avoid the hottest hours if you are outdoors.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours if you are exposed to the sun.
• Stand up and move your legs if you have been sitting for a long time.

Evening:

• Rinse your legs with cool water to reduce swelling.
• Elevate your legs for 15–20 minutes.
• Apply the serum or moisturizing cream after your evening shower.

Enjoying summer during pregnancy

Taking care of yourself in summer during pregnancy doesn't require a complicated routine or an endless list of products. It requires a little extra attention to a body that is doing something extraordinary and that, for this very reason, deserves to be listened to. 

Consistent hydration, a few minutes a day dedicated to your skin, comfortable garments that don't constrict, and a few extra precautions in the sun: that's all there is to it. The rest comes naturally.