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You’ve certainly heard of the “pregnancy glow,” in which your skin seems naturally bright and healthy as a result of the hormones your body produces. The other skin-related adverse effects of pregnancy, such as skin discoloration (also known as melasma), sensitivity, and, sadly, acne, are less well-publicized.
Who has time to deal with all the weird changes in your skin when there’s so much else going on in your body? What if your regular skincare routine doesn’t suit your new pregnancy skin, or you’re concerned that your pre-pregnancy items aren’t completely safe for you and your baby? Fortunately, there are a plethora of products available that are not only safe to use while pregnant, but also cost-effective and don’t require you to devote a significant amount of time to your morning and evening rituals.
Skincare Products to Avoid While Pregnancy
Some skincare products aren’t safe to use while pregnant, which comes as no surprise. Before we get into what is safe, it’s important to know what to avoid in order to minimize the possibility of negative reactions.
Because they can harm a fetus when they enter the bloodstream or create irritation in delicate skin, some skincare products are considered dangerous to use while pregnant:
- Retinol is a kind of vitamin A that helps you look younger (products containing retinoids, typically used for acne and anti-aging)
- Hydroquinone is a substance that is used to treat a skin-lightening agent
- In high quantities, like a chemical peel, or given orally, salicylic acid is effective.
- Botox, fillers, and lasers.
- Exfoliating treatments such as Microdermabrasion, peels, and exfoliation masks
- Fragrance and essential oil-based products such as Bath bombs and scented lotions.
Always read the ingredients list when purchasing skincare products, regardless of where you are shopping. If you have any questions about a product or component, go to your OB and, if you have one, your dermatologist.
Pregnancy Skincare Routine
Alternatives to harmful ingredients in skincare
Here are a few options for safely overcoming pregnancy’s most prevalent (and aggravating) skin issues.
- Acne and hyperpigmentation are two common skin conditions.
- There are some safer options for using retinoid-based cosmetics while pregnant if you’re prone to breakouts — or find yourself unexpectedly flying back in time with adolescent-like skin flashbacks. Glycolic acid is one of the most effective.
- Glycolic acid isn’t suggested in high amounts during pregnancy, but it’s probably safe in modest amounts found in over-the-counter beauty products. Glycolic acid and related acids, such as azelaic acid, can also help with fine line reduction, skin brightening, and skin pigmentation reduction.
- The ACOG advises glycolic and azelaic acid for treating acne during pregnancy in addition to topical benzoyl peroxide and topical salicylic acid.
Protection from the sun
In the long run, protecting yourself from the sun is one of the most important things you can do to avoid wrinkles and skin cancer. But the big concern is how to keep your skin safe while pregnant.
Chemical broad-spectrum sunscreens are still controversial, so choose mineral-based sunscreens that protect the skin by causing UV rays to bounce off the skin altogether. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are two mineral-based sunscreen components. Don’t forget to add some trendy shade with a wide-brimmed hat.
How to determine whether or not your skincare products are safe?
First, talk to your dermatologist and OB/GYN about the safety of your skincare products, especially if you’re on prescription drugs or have a pre-existing skin issue.
After that, look over your product’s ingredient list for any that we’ve discussed — or any that you’re concerned about. The Environmental Working Group is a reliable source of information on skincare and personal product component safety (EWG).
Because personal care items aren’t widely regulated, the EWG created a database of over 87,000 goods and assigned each one a safety grade. The safety rating is calculated by comparing the constituents of each product to over 60 toxicity and regulatory databases.
This pregnancy-safe day and night skincare routine is worth a go.
Here’s a general morning and night skincare routine using a variety of pregnancy-safe skincare products to get you started on your quest for the greatest sheen.
1) Wash your face with lukewarm water and a light cleanser first.
Cleanser goods can be purchased online at the following sites:
- A cleanser for all skin types
- Cleanser for anti-aging
- A cleanser that fights blemishes
2) After that, use a toner.
Based on your skin type, try these toners:
Antioxidant toner for oily skin that hydrates and balances
3) Apply a broad-spectrum mineral-based sunscreen after that.
These are the ones to look for if you’re expecting a baby:
Tinted face stick with SPF 30 and SPF 40
4) After that, apply a moisturizer suitable for your skin type.
These can be found on the internet:
- Day cream moisturizer
- Night cream for firming
5) After that, use an eye cream (if needed).
If you’re looking for a pregnancy-safe eye cream, check out these options:
- Cream for firming and wrinkle reduction
- Cream to brighten the eyes
6) Apply moisturizer to the belly, hips, and thighs to prevent stretch marks.
These are some healthy goods to think about:
- Stretch mark cream stretch mark oil tummy butter skin and scar balm
- Substitute a serum for sun protection in your nighttime routine.
7) Serums.
Shop for this serum:
Melasma treatment firming serum.
Breastfeeding and Skin Care
Now you’re nearing the end of your pregnancy and preparing to care for your new baby! Is it true, however, that you need still be cautious about your skincare routine and products if you plan to breastfeed?
Yes, in a nutshell. “Most topical skin care products are safe when nursing as long as they are not used near the breast/nipple,” adds Dr. Zhang. However, because there is still a significant lack of data on the safety of using particular skincare products while breastfeeding, “it is still recommended to be cautious and avoid using unneeded products,” says the author.
Botox, retinoids, and hydroquinone (a skin lightener) have not been studied for safety while breastfeeding, so it’s better to avoid them entirely. Always with your OB or dermatologist if you have any concerns about whether or not a skincare product is safe to use during nursing.
CONCLUSION
It won’t be easy to give up your favorite skincare routine, but we know you’ll go to any length to protect your child.
This includes staying away from products that could harm you or your baby while you’re pregnant, with studies suggesting that prescription retinoid-containing creams are the most likely to cause serious birth problems.
On the plus side (literally), you may utilize our list of pregnancy-safe skincare products to feel certain that you’re making better choices for your unborn child. Also, discuss your specific pregnancy skin-care issues and goals with your OB/GYN or dermatologist. Click here for source article
