Summer often means holidays, sunshine, and a carefree mood… but when you're pregnant, heatwaves and sun exposure can quickly turn the season into an obstacle course.
Between fatigue, swollen legs, and ultra-sensitive skin, it's essential to adopt the right habits to enjoy this period gently and safely.
Here are our tips to enjoy the sunshine risk-free, while taking care of yourself (and your baby).
🌞 Why the sun can be a false friend during pregnancy
During pregnancy, hormones—especially estrogen—increase significantly. As a result, your skin becomes much more sensitive to UV rays. This explains the appearance of melasma (also known as the "pregnancy mask")—irregular brown spots that show up on the face.
This phenomenon affects 50 to 70% of pregnant women and can leave lasting marks if the skin isn't properly protected.
Other heat-related concerns include: dehydration, risk of heatstroke, and more frequent urinary tract infections, especially if you're sweating heavily or not drinking enough water.
☀️ Sun-smart habits to adopt
🕒 1. Avoid peak sun hours
Between 12 pm and 4 pm, UV rays are at their strongest. Try to go out in the early morning or late afternoon, and choose cool, shaded spots: parks, museums, cinemas—or simply a well-ventilated room.
💧 2. Stay hydrated constantly
Heat increases your water needs. Drinking between 1.5 to 2 liters per day is crucial to prevent urinary infections, ease leg discomfort, and maintain skin elasticity.
👗 3. Dress the right way
Choose loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibers like cotton or linen. These let your skin breathe and help prevent irritation, yeast infections, and intimate discomfort.
💨 And what about underwear?
In summer, underwear plays a key role: since it’s in direct contact with your skin, it can quickly become uncomfortable if not suited to the season.
At Mama Hangs, we've chosen the perfect summer fabric (and more): micromodal.
✨ Why we love it:
- Ultra-breathable: perfect even during hot spells.
- Hypoallergenic and antibacterial: helps prevent irritation and moisture buildup.
- Incredibly soft: ideal for sensitive skin during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
💡 Our bralettes for moms-to-be, just like our maternity and nursing lingerie collections, are designed to offer you support, comfort, and freshness—day and night.
🧴 4. Protect your skin with a safe sunscreen
A SPF50 sunscreen is essential—even in the shade or on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours to ensure effective protection.
💡 During pregnancy, your skin becomes more permeable—so it's crucial to choose safe products with carefully vetted ingredients. For example, sunscreens from Élhée meet the highest safety standards—ideal for expectant moms and babies-to-be.
👉 Don't hesitate to use apps like INCI Beauty to check the quality and safety of the products you use.
🧘 What about physical activity?
Gentle activity (walking, swimming, prenatal yoga) is great for circulation, digestion, and emotional well-being. In summer, avoid exercising during hot hours. Instead, go for morning or evening walks in cooler places.
✅ What to avoid vs. what to embrace
| ❌ Avoid | ✅ Embrace |
|---|---|
| Sun exposure between 12 pm and 4 pm | Cool outings, naps, a movie indoors |
| Sunscreens with chemical filters | SPF50 protection with clean ingredients |
| Tight synthetic clothing | Natural fibers, loose cuts |
| Non-breathable underwear | Mama Hangs micromodal lingerie |
| Sugary drinks or too much coffee | Water, herbal teas, hydrating fruits |
| Prolonged inactivity | Gentle movement and regular activity |
🌸 In summary
Being pregnant in summer isn’t always a breeze—but with the right habits, it can become a time to slow down, take care of yourself, and reconnect with your body.
So hydrate, breathe, listen to your needs… and surround yourself with products designed for sensitive skin.