Pregnancy can visibly change the skin. A common change is the linea nigra, a brownish midline running from the pubic bone to the navel and sometimes up to the breastbone. This article explains how it forms, how common it is, when it appears and fades, and offers practical care tips with trustworthy sources.
What is the linea nigra?
The linea nigra is the darker, visible version of the otherwise light linea alba, a connective-tissue seam down the middle of the abdomen. During pregnancy, skin pigment cells make more melanin, so the line becomes more pronounced. Medically, it’s considered a normal cosmetic finding. Helpful short overviews are available from the NHS and the Cleveland Clinic.
How common is it — and in whom?
Depending on the study, about 50–90% of pregnant people notice a linea nigra. It’s more frequent and often more visible in darker skin tones. A public-health overview of skin changes in pregnancy is provided by Pregnancy, Birth & Baby; further literature can be found via PubMed.
When does it appear — and when does it fade?
The line often becomes visible in the second trimester (typically 15–22 weeks’ gestation) and darkens toward delivery. After birth, it usually fades within 6–12 weeks, occasionally up to a year; a faint shadow may persist. This aligns with information from the Cleveland Clinic and the NHS.
| Phase | Typical timing | Note |
|---|---|---|
| First appearance | 15–22 weeks | Increasingly visible in 2nd trimester |
| Darkening | Until delivery | UV exposure can intensify colour |
| Fading | 6–12 weeks postpartum | Occasionally up to ~12 months |
Why does the pigment line form?
- Hormonal shifts: Pregnancy hormones and melanotropic signals increase melanin production.
- Skin type & genetics: Darker skin tones and family tendency often show stronger pigmentation.
- UV light: Sun and tanning beds can deepen the colour.
- Recurrence: The line often returns in subsequent pregnancies.
Special cases: without pregnancy, in newborns
Rarely, a pigmented midline appears without pregnancy, for example with certain hormonal conditions or medications. A fine midline can also appear transiently in newborns and usually fades on its own. For deeper searching, see PubMed/NCBI.
Care & do’s/don’ts
You can’t reliably prevent the line, but darkening can be reduced:
- Daily sun protection: Apply a generous broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply. Clothing alone doesn’t fully block UV. Mineral filters (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) are generally well tolerated in pregnancy. Guidance: ACOG; basic information also from the NHS.
- Gentle actives: Vitamin C, niacinamide, or azelaic acid are often well tolerated; use strong peels cautiously. Evidence summaries via Cochrane.
- Avoid during pregnancy: Retinoids and hydroquinone are generally not recommended; seek medical advice. See ACOG.
- General: A balanced, antioxidant-rich diet and adequate folic acid are sensible regardless of the line. Basics: NHS.
Dermatology options after breastfeeding
If the line remains bothersome long-term, a dermatologist may consider medium-depth chemical peels, laser or light treatments, and individualized prescriptions. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, treatment is generally conservative. Basic overview: ACOG; patient info: Cleveland Clinic.
Myths & facts
- “The line reveals the baby’s sex.” No. There’s no reliable association. See the NHS overview here.
- “Early appearance means twins.” False. Visibility is mainly influenced by hormones, skin type, and UV exposure.
- “Only darker skin tones get it.” Also false. Very light skin tones can have a line; it’s just less noticeable. Overview: Pregnancy, Birth & Baby.
- “The right cream makes it disappear immediately.” No. Time, sun protection, and gentle care work best. See Cleveland Clinic.
- “Peels or vigorous scrubbing clear it faster.” Excess friction irritates skin and can worsen pigmentation.
- “Self-tanner hides it with no downside.” It may darken surrounding skin and reduce contrast, but uneven application can accentuate the line.
- “A tanning bed helps.” UV exposure can intensify pigmentation and isn’t recommended.
- “A caesarean makes it fade faster.” Mode of delivery doesn’t meaningfully change fading; the post-birth drop in hormones is what matters.
- “Breastfeeding locks it in.” Some pigment changes can last longer while breastfeeding, but they typically fade over time.
- “Linea nigra equals stretch marks.” No. Stretch marks are dermal tears; the linea nigra is a superficial pigmentation line.
When to see a doctor
The linea nigra is usually harmless. See a clinician for rapidly growing, irregularly bordered, or unusually coloured skin changes; significant symptoms (itching, burning, nodules); or if the line causes ongoing distress. If unsure, a first assessment by a family physician or a dermatologist can help.
Conclusion
The linea nigra is a common, hormone-related skin sign of pregnancy. It typically appears in the second trimester and fades on its own after birth. Most effective are sun protection, gentle care, and patience — medically, it’s usually nothing to worry about.