The postpartum state is a dramatic situation in the sense that every physiologic parameter is in "anti-climax". After you give birth, there are so many changes that occur within your body. For example - there is a sudden drop in hormone levels such as estrogen, progesterone and others, and the associated loss of salt and water. There are also psychological implications such as the anti-climax of having completed the job that has been the focal point of your life for the past 9 months. These three effects have a significant impact on the appearance of your skin and the way you feel about yourself.

The drop in the female hormone, estrogen, after childbirth is well documented. During pregnancy your estrogen levels are high so the hormone that regulates its production tells it to stop making any more. After your pregnancy there will be a sudden drop in your estrogen level. Postmenopausal women, who have lower estrogen levels, have skin more like a man - it is drier and less supple. Normal estrogen levels normally return about 2-3 months after childbirth - at the same time that you resume your menstrual cycle. When this happens your skin should be less dry and more flexible and resilient.

During pregnancy increased levels of progesterone and estrogen cause the kidneys to retain salt and water. As a result, during pregnancy your body will be swollen and your skin taut and supple. After childbirth there is a sudden drop in the hormone levels which results in a loss of salt and water. Consequently, the skin looses its turgor and looks less "plump".

There are also psychological effects that make you feel less attractive after childbirth. During pregnancy your body is producing higher levels of progesterone, which elevates your mood. After delivery the progesterone level drops and you may feel depressed, which may affect the way you feel about yourself and the way you look.

In addition, many new mothers do not have the same amount of time to care for their skin when they are caring for a new infant. For safe, effective and quick relief - no matter how dry your skin gets- you can trust LINACARE to improve the appearance and texture of your skin. It provides the longest-lasting moisturization available - the longer lasting the moisturizer - the fewer times you need to apply it during the day.

LINACARE has been tried, clinically tested and proven safe for even the most unpredictable skin. It's even safe and gentle enough for you to use on your newborn! While it is highly moisturizing it is also non-greasy, and non-comedogenic so it does not cause acne. It was specially formulated to help keep your dry skin soft, smooth and problem free.

1. Keep your skin as moist as possible by using moisturizers regularly. For best results, apply twice daily
   
   
2. Apply moisturizer while the skin is still damp to help seal in moisture.
   
   
3. Choose cleansers, cosmetics and sunblocks that moisturize the skin as well.
   
   
4. Avoid soap, alcohol and other drying formulations.
   
   
5. Keep the humidity high, especially when the central heating is on. A humidifier or a bowl of water placed in a room will help to keep moisture in the air.
   
   
6. If you have dry skin on your hands, avoid too much contact with water. You can also wear cotton gloves inside waterproof gloves for all household tasks that involve water, detergents or chemicals.