Pregnancy is a time of profound changes, not only in your body but also in your skincare and makeup routine. As you navigate the journey of nurturing new life within you, it’s essential to pay extra attention to the products you use on your skin. Many conventional skincare and makeup products contain ingredients that may not be safe for you and your baby during this sensitive time.
Here’s a guide to help you maintain your glow while prioritizing safety:
- Educate Yourself on Not-Safe Ingredients During Pregnancy: Start by familiarizing yourself with common ingredients to avoid during your pregnancy. When you're rocking that pregnancy glow, the last thing you want is to inadvertently use something that can be potentially harmful to you or your growing baby. Ingredients that you want to avoid when you’re pregnant are:
- Retinoids/retinol: Retinol is a form of vitamin A that's used to treat skin conditions. During the first trimester of pregnancy, an increase in preformed vitamin A in the mother's blood has been linked to miscarriage and congenital malformations in the central nervous and cardiac systems.
- Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid can be found in face washes, acne solutions, and other solutions. Absorption of salicylic acid can pose a risk to a fetus. It’s best to avoid this ingredient while you’re pregnant.
- Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is used as a preservative to prolong shelf life and prevent bacterial infection. Unfortunately, it has been linked to a higher miscarriage rate so please avoid any skincare or makeup items with this ingredient.
- Phthalates: Phthalates are synthetic chemicals found in nail polish, skincare products and makeup. Women who were exposed to multiple phthalates had an increased risk of preterm birth.
- Certain essential oils: There are a lot of unknowns with essential oils, but it’s recommended that you avoid them during your first trimester. Some may be safer in your second and third trimester. Parents Magazine pulled together a detailed article on which essential oils to avoid when you’re pregnant.
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Simplify Your Routine: Pregnancy is a rollercoaster of hormonal highs and lows. Pregnancy hormones can wreak havoc on your skin, causing it to become more sensitive or prone to breakouts. Consider simplifying your skincare routine by using gentle, pregnancy-safe products. Opt for mild cleansers, alcohol-free toners, and moisturizers formulated for sensitive skin.
- Choose Pregnancy-Safe Brands: You’ve got a lot of fun events to get ready for when you’re pregnant – your baby shower, maternity photos, and date nights before you need a babysitter. Update your GRWM (Get-Ready-With-Me) routine with skincare and makeup brands that specifically cater to pregnant women or those that offer a range of pregnancy-safe products. These brands typically avoid harmful ingredients and prioritize the use of natural and non-toxic alternatives.
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Prioritize Hydration: Pregnancy can lead to changes in skin texture and elasticity. Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using hydrating skincare products. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and vitamin E to lock in moisture and support skin health. Pregnant women should drink at least 8-12 glasses of water a day.
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Sun Protection Is Key: Pregnancy can make your skin more prone to sunburn and pigmentation. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Choose mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are considered safe for pregnancy. It’s also best to wear hats to cover your face if you’re planning to be in the sun for a long time.
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Embrace Natural Remedies: Consider incorporating natural remedies into your skincare routine, such as coconut oil for moisturizing or oatmeal masks for soothing irritated skin. Just be sure to patch-test any new ingredients to avoid potential allergic reactions.
- Adapt Your Facial Routine: If you’re able to treat yourself to a facial while you’re pregnant, make sure you tell the aesthetician before you begin your treatment. Most facials are fine during your pregnancy, and they’ll simply boost your pregnancy glow. You should avoid treatments that use strong chemicals or exfoliants since they could be too harsh on your skin during pregnancy. Consult with your doctor before getting any peels. Chemical peels containing BHA can be harmful to the baby but treatments using alpha hydroxy acid, like glycolic and lactic acid, are derived from sugarcane and considered pregnancy safe. You should also avoid lying on your back for treatment.
Remember, pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and taking care of yourself extends to what you put on your skin. By adopting a safe and mindful approach to skincare and makeup, you can nurture both your inner and outer glow throughout this special time. Consult your healthcare provider on anything that you have questions about.
