Postpartum skin revival

As the demand for postpartum aesthetic treatments rises in India, dermatologists are turning to multimodal approaches for managing stretch marks, laxity, and pigmentation with both safety and efficacy. Shriyal Sethumadhavan reports.

India’s aesthetic dermatology landscape is witnessing a growing awareness around postpartum skin concerns. Traditionally overshadowed by baby-centric medical care, the mother’s skin and body changes post-pregnancy are now taking centre stage. Conditions such as stretch marks (striae distensae), melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and skin laxity are common among postpartum women, driving demand for evidence-based, non-invasive treatments that deliver visible results while being safe during breastfeeding or the postnatal period.

There is a visible rise in new mothers seeking solutions not just for aesthetic improvement but to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin again. Treatments today must address both appearance and sensitivity of postpartum skin.

Grading and treating stretch marks

Stretch marks, one of the most common postpartum concerns, can be classified into two broad categories:

• Striae Rubrae (new stretch marks): These are red or purple due to active vascularisation and respond better to topical agents such as tretinoin, hyaluronic acid, and glycolic acid-based creams.

• Striae Albae (mature stretch marks): These white or silver lines represent older, more fibrotic lesions that typically require procedural interventions.

“Postpartum stretch marks, or striae distensae, are a common concerns, and while they do not have a definitive grading system, they can be categorised as “new” (red/purple) or “old” (silver/ white) for treatment purposes,” says Dr Piyusha Bhagde, Founder and Chief Dermatologist at Skin Ethics Clinic in Akola, Maharashtra. “Treatments include topical creams (tretinoin, hyaluronic acid) for newer marks, and procedures like laser therapy, microneedling, or chemical peels for both new and older marks.”

Microneedling stimulates collagen via micro-injuries, improving texture and elasticity, while fractional lasers work deeper into the dermis to resurface and tighten skin. For resistant cases, combination therapies such as microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are also proving effective.

Skin laxity after childbirth

Postpartum skin laxity – particularly around the abdomen, flanks, and thighs – is another frequently addressed concern. Hormonal changes, rapid fat loss, and stretched tissue during pregnancy contribute to the issue.

“Both Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling and High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) can stimulate collagen production and improve skin firmness,” says Dr Piyusha, adding, “HIFU is more potent and penetrates deeper than RF microneedling, reaching the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) for more significant tightening. HIFU is particularly effective for treating loose skin in areas like the abdomen and thighs.”

On the other hand, RF microneedling delivers energy through microneedles to stimulate dermal remodelling. Though less intense than HIFU, it allows for more targeted treatment and is often preferred in combination protocols.

Power of combination protocols

Postpartum skin conditions are rarely one-dimensional. Recognising this, aesthetic dermatologists increasingly combine technologies to offer superior outcomes.

“For postpartum skin laxity,” Dr Piyusha says, “treatments like HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound), RF microneedling, and laser treatments can help stimulate collagen production and improve skin firmness and elasticity.” She adds that HIFU targets deeper layers of the skin, while RF microneedling combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy for a more comprehensive approach. Laser treatments can also be effective for skin tightening and rejuvenation

Some popular multimodal approaches include.

• Microneedling + PRP: To combine collagen induction with regenerative healing.

• HIFU + Topical Retinoids: For stretch mark reduction and firming.

• Laser + Topical Regimen: To address pigmentation and uneven tone.

Such strategies allow practitioners to tailor treatments based on individual patient needs and skin conditions, offering a customised recovery path for postpartum clients.

Tackling postpartum pigmentation

Hormonal changes during and after pregnancy often trigger melasma, chloasma, and PIH – conditions that can significantly affect self-esteem.

Dr Piyusha’s recommended postpartum-safe ingredients include:

• Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days.

• Avoid sun exposure: Minimise prolonged sun exposure and seek shade, especially during peak hours.

• Azelaic acid: A gentle exfoliant that can help lighten dark patches and is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers.

• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that can help brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps improve uneven skin texture and fade discoloration.

• Glycolic acid: An alpha hydroxy acid that can help exfoliate the skin.

• Kojic acid: Inhibiting melanin production, leading to skin lightening and brightening, while also offering antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits

• Arbutin: A natural compound that can help inhibit melanin production and is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy.

• Topical nicotinamide: Can be used to treat hyperpigmentation and is considered safe during pregnancy.

• Turmeric: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and hyperpigmentation.

• Aloe vera: Can be used to treat skin conditions and is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation and hyperpigmentation.

• Liposomal aloe vera: Can be used to treat hyperpigmentation and is considered safe during pregnancy.

While these agents work well alone, combining them with chemical peels or laser toning post-lactation offers more aggressive results.

Evolving landscape

The Indian aesthetic dermatology sector is aligning itself with the global shift towards wellness-led, patient-centric postpartum recovery. New mothers are seeking holistic solutions – not just facials or laser sessions, but protocols that address internal healing and hormonal rebalancing alongside visible improvements.

As technologies become more accessible and public awareness rises, practitioners have a critical role to play in:

• Educating patients about realistic expectations.

• Customising treatments for Indian skin phototypes.

• Building safer treatment protocols for breastfeeding and postnatal care.

• Collaborating with nutritionists, physiotherapists, and psychologists where needed.

The postpartum phase represents not just a physical transition, but a deeply emotional one. Aesthetic dermatologists are uniquely positioned to support new mothers by restoring skin health, confidence, and identity.

With a growing focus on non-invasive treatments, multimodal protocols, and evidence-backed safety, the future of postpartum skincare in India is bright – and increasingly collaborative.