Pregnancy Skincare do’s and don’ts
When it comes to pregnancy there is a lot of information about what is good and not good! Today we are going to talk about the specifics of skincare when it comes to what you should and should not use while pregnant!
Full disclosure, I am not a doctor. All of this is knowledge I have read or picked up over the years. Keep in mind some things/ingredients are okay in moderation. As a skin care therapist, it is my job to stay on the safe side of things and provide as much information to you as I can, and recommend treatments/products that give you not only the best, but safest results.
DO NOT
Don’t use retinol
Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A. Certain amount or percentages of Vitamin A are safe for babies however there are many studies that show that an excess amount can be harmful. If you are using a retinol product to help with acne or aging skin, a suitable substitute would be glycolic acid or vitamin C. Hello Biolumin C serum!
Don’t use hydroquinone
This is a skin lightening agent. Melasma is a skin condition that can develop during pregnancy on the face. It is often referred to as pregnancy mask, and it normally goes away after you have your baby. When this happens a lot of women turn to over the counter solutions and this ingredient can be found in some of them. It has a very high absorption rate which is why experts are nervous about it.
Don’t use chemical sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens can disrupt hormones. It is important to use SPF daily but a chemical sunscreen can be absorbed into the blood stream. Using a physical sun screen or a sun block is a better option for you! Have you tried Invisible Physical Defense?
Don’t use salicylic acid
During pregnancy, the levels of your hormones fluctuate and that can lead to skin conditions such as acne. It is important to avoid Accutane but another important ingredient (that I love) should be avoided and that is salicylic acid which is derived from aspirin mostly.
Don’t use essential oils
Pure essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy. The molecules are small that they can affect the blood stream to a degree. It was drilled into my brain in esthetics school that you shouldn’t use essential oils at all when pregnant. Certain oils can trigger contractions and increase blood pressure.
DO
Do use lactic acid
Lactic acid is an AHA that is derived from dairy which helps exfoliate the skin. It is more gentle than glycolic acid. It hydrates the skin, but also lightens and brightens the appearance of uneven or discolored skin. Skin Resurfacing Cleanser is a great cleanser that contains lactic acid!
Do use glycolic acid
In concentrations of less than 10%, glycolic acid is safe to use on the skin when pregnant. It is a stronger AHA so if your skin is sensitive, lactic acid is better suited for you. Glycolic acid speeds up cell turnover and reveals brighter looking skin. It also fights pimples.
Do use niacinamide
Niacinamide is an anti-inflammatory that also helps fight acne causing bacteria in the skin. This ingredient fights to work against breakouts, soothe inflammation and reduce redness in the skin. You can find it in the Clear Start Breakout Clearing Booster!
Do use hyaluronic acid
This ingredient is liquid gold. Hyaluronic acid is an ingredient that everyone should use and it’s active but safe enough to use when pregnant. This ingredient is plumping and hydrating and will help your skin look and feel its best.
Do use vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which helps fight free radical damage and protect our skin. This ingredient helps fight signs of aging by increasing collagen production. Vitamin C evens out overall skin tone as well as targets pigmentation.