Skincare During Pregnancy: Safe Choices and What to Avoid

By Shahara Lum

During pregnancy, your skin and skincare needs may change. You might need to consider whether your current skincare products are safe to use while expecting. However, not all skincare products are safe to use during pregnancy, as some ingredients can potentially harm the unborn baby.

Why is pregnancy safe skincare important?

During pregnancy, your body goes through significant hormonal changes that can affect your skin in various ways. These changes can lead to common skin issues such as:

• Acne: Hormonal fluctuations can cause an increase in oil production, leading to acne.

• Hyperpigmentation: Dark patches, known as melasma or “the mask of pregnancy,” can appear on the face.

• Sensitive Skin: The skin can become more sensitive and prone to irritation.

Pregnancy-safe skincare is also highly absorbent, and the products applied can affect not only the mother’s skin but also the developing baby. Here are other several reasons why it’s crucial to prioritize:

1. Protecting Fetal Development: Certain skincare ingredients can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, potentially reaching the fetus. Some of these ingredients, like retinoids and hydroquinone, have been linked to birth defects and developmental issues. By avoiding harmful ingredients, pregnant women can protect their developing baby from potential risks.

2. Preventing Hormonal Disruptions: Many skincare products contain endocrine disruptors like parabens and phthalates. These chemicals can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance, which is already in flux during pregnancy. Disrupting hormonal balance can lead to complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in the baby. [2]

3. Avoiding Skin Sensitivity and Irritation: Pregnancy often makes the skin more sensitive and prone to irritation. Hormonal changes can lead to conditions like acne, melasma, and increased skin sensitivity. Using harsh or unsafe skincare products can worsen these issues, causing discomfort and skin problems. Pregnancy-safe skincare products are typically formulated to be gentle and soothing, reducing the risk of irritation. [2]

4. Reducing the Risk of Long-Term Health Issues: Long-term exposure to certain chemicals found in conventional skincare products can have cumulative effects, potentially leading to health issues later in life. By choosing pregnancy-safe skincare, mothers can minimize their exposure to these chemicals, reducing the risk of long-term health problems such as cancer or hormonal disorders.

Skincare ingredients to avoid during pregnancy

1. Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives are commonly used in anti-aging and acne treatments. However, high doses of vitamin A can lead to birth defects. Retinoids to avoid include Retin-A, retinol, and retinyl palmitate.

2. Salicylic Acid: While low concentrations of salicylic acid (under 2%) are generally considered safe, high doses can lead to complications. It’s best to avoid salicylic acid in high concentrations, such as in peels and oral medications.

3. Hydroquinone: This skin-lightening agent is used to treat hyperpigmentation. The body absorbs a significant amount of hydroquinone, which can be harmful to the fetus.

4. Benzoyl Peroxide: Commonly used for acne treatments, benzoyl peroxide is absorbed into the bloodstream and should be used with caution. Consult your dermatologist before using it.

5. Essential Oils: While some essential oils are safe, others, like rosemary and clary sage, can potentially cause uterine contractions and should be avoided.

6. Dihydroxyacetone (DHA): This is the active ingredient in self-tanners. While there is no conclusive evidence about its safety, it’s best to avoid DHA due to its potential risks.

7. Parabens: These preservatives are found in many skincare products and can disrupt hormone function, which may affect the pregnancy.

Pregnancy-safe skincare ingredients

Now that you know what to avoid, here are some pregnancy-safe skincare ingredients that you can use to maintain healthy skin during pregnancy:

1. Hyaluronic Acid: This is a hydrating ingredient that is safe to use during pregnancy. It helps to plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines without any risk to your baby.

2. Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant, vitamin C can help brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. It’s safe to use and can be beneficial for maintaining a healthy glow.

3. Glycolic Acid: In low concentrations, glycolic acid is considered safe for use during pregnancy. It helps to exfoliate the skin and reduce acne without any harmful effects.

4. Oats: Colloidal oatmeal is a soothing ingredient that can help with itchy, irritated skin. It’s safe for use and can provide relief from the common skin conditions that occur during pregnancy.

5. Aloe Vera: This natural ingredient is known for its soothing and healing properties. It’s safe to use and can help with skin irritation and inflammation.

6. Coconut Oil: A natural moisturizer, coconut oil can be used to hydrate the skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

7. Shea Butter: This is another natural moisturizer that is safe to use during pregnancy. It helps to nourish and hydrate the skin, reducing the risk of stretch marks.

Creating a pregnancy-safe skincare routine

Here’s a simple pregnancy-safe skincare routine to help you maintain healthy, glowing skin:

1. Cleanser: Choose a gentle, hydrating cleanser without harsh chemicals or fragrances. Look for ingredients like glycerin and oats to keep your skin clean and soothed.

2. Toner: Use an alcohol-free toner with soothing ingredients like chamomile or rose water to calm the skin and remove any residual impurities.

3. Moisturizer: Opt for a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or natural oils like coconut oil to keep your skin hydrated and supple.

4. Serum: Use a vitamin C serum to brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. Ensure it’s free from harmful additives.

5. Sunscreen: Sun protection is crucial during pregnancy. Choose a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these ingredients are safe and effective.

6. Spot Treatment: For acne, use a product with low concentrations of glycolic acid or tea tree oil, but always consult your dermatologist first.

7. Body Lotion: Keep your body hydrated with a lotion that contains shea butter or coconut oil to reduce the risk of stretch marks.

Best pregnancy-safe skincare products

Here are the best dermatologist-recommended pregnancy-safe skincare products to add to your routine!

Moisturizers:

• Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer
• Versed Dew Point Gel Moisturizer
• Eucerin Aquaphor Repairing Cream
• Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion
• CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

Sunscreen:

• EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen, SPF 46
• Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield Flex
• Skinceuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense

Serums:

• Vichy Mineral 89 Niacinamide Serum
• The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
• Lady Polpo Sister Serum

Facewash:

• La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser
• Cetaphil Face Wash
• CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
• Lady Polpo Conscious Cleanser

Final Tips for Pregnancy-Safe Skincare

• Patch Test: Always do a patch test before using any new product to ensure it doesn’t cause any irritation or allergic reactions.

• Consult Your Doctor: If you have any concerns about the safety of a product or ingredient, consult your dermatologist or healthcare provider.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

• Healthy Diet: Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants to support your skin’s health.

• Gentle Approach: Be gentle with your skin, avoid harsh scrubbing, and use mild, non-abrasive products.

Works cited:

[1]https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/pregnancy-safe-skin-care#:~:text=But%20all%20eyes%20are%20on,harmful%20to%20your%20little%20one.

[2]https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/pregnancy/skincare-product-safety#

[3]https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/best-pregnancy-skincare/

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