Pregnancy and motherhood bring about profound physical and emotional changes and for many women, that includes noticeable shifts in skin and hair health. From hormonal acne and pigmentation to postpartum hair loss, these changes can often feel unexpected and difficult to manage without the right guidance.
In Singapore, where heat and humidity further influence skin conditions, having access to expert, science-backed advice becomes even more essential. At the forefront of dermatological care is Dr. Angeline Yong, founder of Angeline Yong Dermatology and SSKINS Medispa, a holistic wellness destination developed in collaboration with SkinCeuticals.
With over 20 years of medical experience, Dr. Yong combines clinical expertise with a holistic philosophy that beauty begins with well-being. Through SSKINS Medispa, she aims to bridge the gap between medical-grade treatments and a restorative, client-focused experience particularly for busy women and mothers seeking effective yet practical solutions.
We spoke with Dr. Yong to gain deeper insights into pregnancy and postpartum skin and hair concerns, safe treatment approaches, and the lifestyle habits that support long-term skin health. Read on to find out more.
Interview with Dr. Angeline Yong, Founder of Angeline Yong Dermatology & SSKINS Medispa
1. Many women experience unexpected skin changes during pregnancy. From a dermatologist’s perspective, what are the most common skin concerns you see in pregnant patients, and what causes them?
Dr. Angeline Yong: From a dermatologist’s perspective, the most common skin changes during pregnancy are driven by hormonal shifts, increased blood circulation, and the physical stretching of the skin.
Firstly, hyperpigmentation, or melasma (or what is known as the mask of pregnancy), is very common, affecting up to 50 – 70% of women. Patients typically notice darker patches on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip. This is due to elevated estrogen and progesterone levels stimulating pigment production, and it is often worsened by sun exposure.
Secondly, acne may either develop for the first time or worsen during pregnancy. This is largely due to increased oil production triggered by hormonal changes, particularly androgens, leading to clogged pores and inflammation.
Thirdly, stretch marks, or striae gravidarum, occur in up to 90% of pregnancies. These result from rapid skin stretching combined with hormonal effects that weaken collagen and elastin, causing visible lines on areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and breasts.
In addition, many women experience increased skin sensitivity and dryness. This is linked to changes in the skin barrier and immune response, which can make the skin more reactive or prone to conditions like eczema.
We also commonly see vascular changes, such as spider veins, development of cherry angiomas, or facial redness. These are caused by increased blood volume and dilation of blood vessels under the influence of estrogen.
Lastly, some women experience what is often called the “pregnancy glow.” This is due to increased blood flow and oil production, although it is not universal.
Overall, these changes are very common and generally temporary, but certain conditions—such as melasma—may persist and require treatment after pregnancy.
2. Pregnancy acne can be frustrating, especially when treatment options are limited. What are some safe and effective ways expectant mothers can manage breakouts?
Dr. Angeline Yong: Pregnancy acne can indeed be challenging, as treatment options must be carefully selected for safety. The approach I typically recommend is to focus on gentle, consistent care with pregnancy-safe actives.
Firstly, a simple and non-irritating skincare routine is key. Use a mild cleanser twice daily to control excess oil without stripping the skin, and avoid over-cleansing, which can worsen inflammation.
Secondly, there are a few ingredients that are considered safe and effective.
• Azelaic acid is one of the most reliable options—it helps to reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and brighten post-acne marks and reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
• Niacinamide can help regulate oil production, calm redness and support the skin barrier.
• Low-strength alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid, mandelic acid and even low-strength beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) such as salicylic acid when used as spot treatment or as a cleanser, can be safe in pregnancy.
• Topicals antibiotic gels or creams such as clindamycin or erythromycin gel for inflamed acne papules and pustules can be used safely. This may however need to be obtained with a prescription from a doctor.
Thirdly, keep the skin well-hydrated. A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser helps maintain the skin barrier, which is often compromised during pregnancy and can otherwise trigger more breakouts.
Sun protection is also essential. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen helps prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation, which can be more pronounced during pregnancy. Equally important is knowing what to avoid. Ingredients such as retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, and certain oral medications are not recommended during pregnancy.
Finally, for more persistent or inflammatory acne, it is best to consult a dermatologist. There are prescription options, such as certain topical antibiotics or medical grade azelaic acid, that can be safely tailored to the patient.
Overall, the goal is to manage acne effectively while protecting both mother and baby, using safe, evidence-based options and avoiding overly aggressive treatments.
3. Postpartum hair loss is something many new mothers worry about. Could you explain why it happens, how long it typically lasts, and when someone should seek professional help?
Dr. Angeline Yong: Postpartum hair loss is very common, and I always reassure patients that it is temporary and part of the body’s natural reset after pregnancy.
Why it happens?
During pregnancy, higher estrogen levels keep more hair in the growth phase, so women tend to shed less. After delivery, hormone levels drop, and those retained hairs shift into the shedding phase all at once. This leads to noticeable hair fall, which we call telogen effluvium.
How long it lasts?
Shedding usually starts around 2 to 3 months after delivery, may peak at about 3 to 4 months, and gradually improves. Most women see recovery by around 6 to 12 months postpartum as the hair cycle normalises.
When to seek help?
I would advise seeing a dermatologist if the hair loss is very heavy, persists beyond a year, or if there are other symptoms such as fatigue or weight changes, as this may point to issues like iron deficiency or thyroid imbalance.
Overall, while it can be quite alarming, it does not typically lead to permanent hair loss, and in most cases, the hair will regrow with time.
4. For mothers dealing with pigmentation issues such as melasma during or after pregnancy, what treatment approaches are safe, and when is it appropriate to start aesthetic procedures?
Dr. Angeline Yong: Melasma during and after pregnancy is very common, and the key is to manage it safely and gradually.
During pregnancy, the focus is really on prevention. I always emphasise strict sun protection—a good broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 40 to 50, reapplied regularly, is essential, especially in Singapore. Simple measures like wearing a hat also help. For skincare, we keep it gentle. Ingredients like azelaic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C can be helpful to control pigmentation, although it should be introduced gradually, as skin may be more sensitive during pregnancy. At this stage, we avoid any aggressive or invasive treatments.
After delivery, once hormones start to stabilise, we can take a more active approach. This may include prescription creams to lighten pigmentation, and in some cases, treatments such as chemical peels or lasers.
In terms of timing, I usually advise waiting about 3 to 6 months postpartum, and longer if the patient is breastfeeding or if pigmentation is still unstable, before starting aesthetic procedures. This allows the pigmentation to stabilise, so we get more predictable and effective results.
Overall, melasma can be persistent, so even with treatment, maintenance, especially sun protection, is very important to keep it under control.
5. As a mother of two, did you experience any pregnancy and or postpartum skin or hair changes yourself? How did you manage them?
Dr. Angeline Yong: As a mother of 2, I was fortunate that I did not experience any pesky pigmentary changes such as melasma, but I found myself developing pregnancy-related acne for both pregnancies starting from the 2nd trimester. I normally have clear, non-acne prone skin and compared to some women who may experience a pregnancy glow or pregnancy glow-up with more radiant skin, I actually found my skin getting prone to inflammation, especially inflammatory acne. Acne developed in both pregnancies from the 2nd trimester onwards and persisted until after delivery. I was experiencing inflammatory larger painful acne and during this time, as pregnancy-safe options are more limited, I leaned towards treating myself with blue light LED therapy each time (1-2 times a week) during the more inflamed phases and this worked particularly well for me. Do note that I was not developing any melasma or pregnancy related pigmentation so blue light LED was suitable for me, but I will not recommend this for women who have concurrent pigmentation issues which blue light could possibly worsen. Red light LED would be safe as well for reducing inflammation in the skin. I used this to achieve a photo-biomodulation effect to reduce bacterial load on the skin as I was trying to avoid stronger medical options, and this, partnered with using safe topicals like clindamycin gel, azelaic acid 20% as spot treatment onto acne lesions also helped to control my acne during both pregnancies. I also incorporated a good skin care routine including calming ingredients such hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides to ensure that my skin barrier remains stable and resilient.
I definitely also found myself developing some post-partum hair loss a few months after delivery, although this was actually not too heavy or dramatic for me, and I think that having a good diet rich in protein, and ensuring adequate mineral supplementation with multi-vitamins and hair growth supplements rich in collagen peptides and proteoglycans also helped to support my recovery through this phase.
6. How do factors like sleep, nutrition, stress management, and scalp care support mothers in restoring their skin and hair health after childbirth?
Dr. Angeline Yong: Recovery after childbirth is not just about treatments—lifestyle plays a very significant role in restoring both skin and hair health.
Firstly, sleep is fundamental. When sleep is disrupted, it affects skin repair, collagen production, and even the hair growth cycle. Poor sleep can worsen dullness, breakouts, and prolong hair shedding.
Secondly, nutrition is key. After delivery, the body needs adequate protein, iron, and essential vitamins such as zinc, biotin and vitamin D to support hair regrowth and skin recovery. Deficiencies—especially in iron—can worsen hair loss and slow down overall healing. Stress management is also very important. High stress levels can prolong conditions like postpartum hair loss and trigger skin issues such as acne or sensitivity. Even simple practices like light exercise, fresh air, or short breaks can make a meaningful difference.
Lastly, scalp care is often overlooked. Keeping the scalp clean and well-balanced helps support healthy hair regrowth. Gentle cleansing, avoiding heavy buildup by under washing (which is quite common in Asian cultures especially during the confinement period), and minimising excessive heat or tight hairstyles can reduce additional stress on the hair.
Overall, I always tell patients that recovery is holistic—when sleep, nutrition, stress, and scalp health are well-managed, the skin and hair are much better supported in returning to their normal state.
7. Many women juggle among careers, children, and home responsibilities. For those with very little time, what would you consider the most essential skincare routine? Are there any steps they should never skip?
Dr. Angeline Yong: For mothers with very limited time, I usually advise keeping the routine simple, efficient, and consistent.
In the morning, the most important step is sunscreen. If there is only one product to prioritise, it should be a broad-spectrum sunscreen, as it protects against pigmentation, premature photo-ageing, and sensitivity concerns that are often more pronounced after pregnancy. A streamlined morning routine would be: a gentle cleanse, followed by a light moisturiser, and sunscreen.
In the evening, the focus should be on proper cleansing and basic skin repair. This means removing sunscreen and impurities with a gentle cleanser, then applying a moisturiser to support the skin barrier. If time allows, a simple treatment such as niacinamide, or a suitable active (depending on the skin concerns) such as azelaic acid, retinol/retinoid can be added, but it is not essential.
If I had to highlight the non-negotiables, they would be: cleansing at night, skin repair with a barrier boosting moisturiser, and sunscreen in the morning. Ultimately, consistency is more important than complexity. A minimal routine that can be maintained daily will deliver far better results than an elaborate regimen that is difficult to sustain.
8. Besides products and treatments, what practical lifestyle habits do you recommend for women and mothers to maintain healthy skin and scalp especially in Singapore’s humid climate?
Dr. Angeline Yong: Beyond products and treatments, I always emphasise that daily habits make a significant difference, especially in Singapore’s hot and humid climate.
Firstly, keep the skin and scalp clean—but avoid over-cleansing. With the heat, humidity and perspiration, it’s important to cleanse regularly to remove sweat, oil, and buildup. However, over-washing can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to sensitivity or even more oil production.
Secondly, manage sweat and humidity exposure. After exercise or prolonged time outdoors, try to cleanse or at least rinse the skin and scalp. Prolonged sweat can contribute to breakouts, clogged pores, and scalp irritation.
Thirdly, choose breathable, lightweight products. In a humid environment, heavier formulations can feel occlusive and may increase the risk of congestion or scalp buildup. Opting for lighter textures helps maintain balance. Hydration is also important—both internally and externally. Adequate water intake supports overall skin function, while a suitable moisturiser helps maintain the skin barrier even in humid conditions.
In addition, minimise heat and mechanical stress on the hair. Frequent heat styling, tight hairstyles, or friction can worsen hair shedding and scalp sensitivity, particularly in the postpartum period.
Sun protection remains essential. Even with indoor lifestyles, incidental sun exposure contributes to pigmentation and ageing, so daily sunscreen use is important.
Finally, lifestyle balance plays a role. Adequate rest and stress management support both skin and scalp health, as chronic stress can trigger issues such as acne, sensitivity, and hair shedding.
Overall, the key is to maintain a balanced routine that respects the climate—keeping the skin clean, protected, and not overwhelmed.
9. What inspired you to create SSKINS Medispa, and what gap in the market were you hoping to fill, particularly for women and mothers?
Dr. Angeline Yong: What inspired me to create SSKINS Medispa was really the desire to bridge a gap I kept seeing in clinical practice. Many patients—especially women and mothers—were choosing between two extremes: on one hand, very clinical environments that can feel intimidating, and on the other, spa experiences that are relaxing but not always results-driven.
With SSKINS, the goal was to bring these two worlds together—to create a space where medical-grade, science-backed treatments are delivered in a calm, restorative environment. We also wanted to move beyond treating just one concern at a time. That’s why SSKINS is built on a more holistic approach—looking at skin, scalp, and body together, because true, lasting results come from overall balance and wellbeing.
For women and mothers in particular, time is limited and needs are often more complex. So the idea was to create a place where they can receive personalised, effective treatments that are both efficient and nurturing, without having to compromise between results and experience.
Ultimately, SSKINS was designed to be a trusted space for long-term skin health and skin longevity, not just quick fixes—where patients feel cared for, understood, and confident in the science behind every treatment.
10. Launching Singapore’s first SkinCeuticals medispa flagship must have been an exciting journey. Can you share what the process was like and some of the challenges you faced?
Dr. Angeline Yong: Launching Singapore’s first SkinCeuticals medispa flagship was definitely an exciting and meaningful journey, but it also came with its challenges.
From the start, the vision was to create a space that truly reflects clinical efficacy, credibility, and a premium patient experience. That meant being very intentional about everything—from treatment protocols and technology selection to the overall environment and patient journey.
One of the key challenges was aligning medical standards with a spa-like experience. In a clinical setting, the focus is often purely results-driven, whereas in a spa, it is more about relaxation. Bringing these together in a seamless and authentic way required careful planning and constant refinement.
Another challenge was education—both for patients and the team. With advanced technologies and medical-grade skincare, it was important to ensure that every treatment is well-understood, appropriately customised, and safely delivered. This involved investing heavily in training and setting clear clinical protocols.
We also had to consider the expectations of Singapore consumers, who are very informed and results-oriented. This meant ensuring that every offering is not just premium in positioning, but truly effective and backed by science.
Overall, while the process was demanding, it was also very rewarding. It allowed us to build a medispa that is not just aesthetically pleasing and also grounded in clinical integrity and designed for long-term skin health, resilience and longevity.
11. At SSKINS Medispa, how do you approach treatment planning for busy individuals or mothers with different concerns and limited time?
Dr. Angeline Yong: At SSKINS Medispa, our approach is always personalised, and also practical, especially for busy individuals and mothers.
The first step is to prioritise concerns. Many clients come in with multiple issues—pigmentation, skin laxity, breakouts—but we focus on what will give the most visible impact with the least downtime.
We then design treatments that are efficient and multi-tasking. This means selecting technologies or protocols that can address several concerns at once—for example, improving skin tone, texture, and firmness within a single session—so patients don’t need multiple visits.
Time is also a key consideration. We structure treatments to fit into realistic schedules, whether that means shorter but still efficient sessions, minimal downtime, or treatments that allow clients to return to their daily routine immediately.
Just as importantly, we keep home care simple and sustainable. There’s no point prescribing a complex routine if the client doesn’t have time to follow it. We focus on a few essential, high-impact steps that can be maintained consistently.
Overall, the goal is to deliver effective, visible results in a way that fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle, without overwhelming the client.
12. For our readers planning to visit SSKINS Medispa, what can they expect from their first consultation or treatment? And what would you say to them including mothers who may feel unsure or are completely new to the medispa experience?
Dr. Angeline Yong: For first-time clients, we always aim to make the experience comfortable, reassuring, and clearly guided.
During the initial consultation, we take time to understand your concerns, lifestyle, and goals. This includes assessing your skin condition, discussing any sensitivities or medical history, and identifying what matters most to you—whether it is pigmentation, acne, skin firmness, or overall maintenance.
From there, we will recommend a personalised, tailored treatment plan. Importantly, this is explained in a very transparent and practical way—what each treatment does, what results to expect, and how it fits into your schedule.
There is no pressure to proceed immediately. If you choose to go ahead with a treatment, the experience is designed to be both results-driven and comfortable. Most of our treatments are selected to have minimal downtime, so you can return to your daily routine with ease.
For mothers or anyone new to the medispa experience, I would say—start simple and don’t feel overwhelmed. You don’t need to do everything at once. We will guide you step by step, beginning with what is most essential and building from there.
Ultimately, our goal is to create a space where you feel well-informed, well cared for, and confident in the decisions you make for your skin.
Pregnancy and postpartum changes to the skin and hair are not only common but deeply personal shaped by hormones, lifestyle, and individual biology. As Dr. Angeline Yong highlights, the key lies in adopting a balanced, evidence-based approach that combines safe skincare, proper lifestyle habits, and professional guidance when needed.
With its holistic philosophy spanning skin, scalp, and body, SSKINS Medispa offers a space where science meets care, designed especially for women and mothers seeking effective, personalised solutions without compromising on comfort or time.
For more information or to book a consultation, please visit https://sskins.co/
SSKINS Medispa is located at 56 Tanglin Road (Tanglin Post Office Building, opposite Tanglin Mall), #01-01, Singapore 247964.
Opening Hours
Monday – Friday: 10am – 8pm
Saturday: 10am – 6pm
Sunday & PH: 10am – 5pm
