My skin reverted back to its teenage self when I was expecting my second baby – and spot creams only made the problem worse. I felt (and looked) about as far from glowing as is possible. Either I went into hiding for nine months (not an option given I work in an open plan office) or I found some products to help. Here is a list of the things that enabled me walk out the door during my second pregnancy, when I was feeling fat, ugly and exhausted.
Bobbi Brown soothing cleansing oil, £31
It felt wrong to be rubbing oil onto my greasy skin but when I showed my nasty, spotty face to the woman at the Bobbi Brown counter promised it was th
e right thing to do. Her view was that by using harsh spot creams I was encouraging my skin to produce more oil but it would stop doing this if I introduced oil into my skincare routine. Her advice worked and within a couple of days the spots had gone. Magic.
Mama Mio lucky legs lotion, £19.50
I was sceptical about a cream that promises to give relief from heavy, tired legs but became addicted to the cooling, tingling (slightly weird?) sensation created by menthol, spearmint and lemon.
Bobbi Brown protective face lotion SPF, £35
A lightweight moisturising lotion with SPF 15 to protect against the damaging rays of the sun. It also contains vitamin E to fight against damaging free radicals and, crucially, contains chamomile to sooth and calm the skin.
Bobbi Brown extra SPF moisturising balm
I love this stuff. It’s more natural-looking than foundation and gives a dewy (glowing, even!) complexion with an even skin tone and also protects against the sun’s rays. Apply with a foundation brush for the best possible results. If you haven’t heard of a foundation brush, you haven’t lived… 
Lazy Cow soothing body lotion, £18
I’d be lying if I said I noticed its “calm-inducing” properties but it makes the skin feel moisturised and toned after a long soak in the bath. And the dairy cow connotations work somehow.
Babes with Babies poncho, £98
If it’s good enough for Zara Phillips… Completely covering and comfortable while stylish.
Asos maternity leggings, £14
Stretchy and soft. I ended up wearing them for weeks afterwards (until my husband threatened to burn them) as they didn’t interfere with my c-section scar.
Cloud 9 straighteners, £99
There’s nothing like good hair to cheer you up. I’d never owned a pair of straighteners before as they typically made my flat, straight hair just flatter and straighter than usual but these are really good for creating a bit of volume or some loose waves, even though I’m useless at using them and have no patience. 
Nails Inc Gel effect nail varnish, £14
The gel effect range from Nails Inc dries quickly – great if you don’t have time or patience – and looks professional, even if you’re no expert at applying it.
