Pregnancy Skincare Tips

Pregnancy can be an absolutely miraculous time as you are literally creating life inside of you. So many strange things are happening. People are staring, touching your belly and telling you all sorts of tips they read in some baby book they found.

There are so many changes and things you have to be mindful of during this time. One of these changes is your skincare routine. Just like when you eat, your baby will be affected by what you put in (or in this case, on) your body. Whatever you absorb, so will your child. That’s why it’s essential for you to be mindful of the ingredients in your skincare products.

Unfortunately there isn’t a ton of research on this for obvious reasons. Conducting potentially harmful studies on pregnant women is pretty unethical. But we do understand the benefits of natural products and how they can not only be better for you, but also your child.

We all want that natural pregnancy glow everyone raves about. While this does exist, not everyone is so lucky and there are certainly some pregnancy specific skin issues that can arise.

Common Skin Issues During Pregnancy

Unfortunately, pregnancy can cause a lot of skin issues that aren’t so great. Melasma is a hyperpigmentation with brown or tan spots on the face. This is common during hormonal changes (which occur a lot during pregnancy) and is pretty challenging to combat safely. Fortunately, this fades over time. If it’s severe we would recommend speaking to your dermatologist.

Hormonal acne is also quite common during the first and second trimester. Dry skin and blemishes can be difficult during this period.

Stretch marks are another side effect. Taking care of your skin prior to pregnancy to increase elasticity is your best bet.

What You Should Avoid

There is a whole catalogue of ingredients in your foods and products you use that you should stray away from while your pregnant. Here are a list of the most common ingredients found in popular skincare products you should steer clear of.

• Salicylic acid
• Retin-A
• Retinol
• Retinyl palmitate
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Hydroquinone
• Prescription acne medications (consult your doctor)

The Ideal Pregnancy Skincare Routine

Everyone is different so unfortunately we don’t have a universal solution for everyone. The best practice is to stick to gentle products. Gentle exfoliators and moisturizers are great during pregnancy.

Pregnancy breakouts are a thing. Even if you’re on your second or third child, every pregnancy is different and your body reacts differently as well. So, even if your first go around had no problems and you were blessed with an incredible pregnancy glow — you might have a breakout the next time.

Speak with your doctors, dermatologists or medical spa professionals about what products are best to use during this time.

Look for products that promote cell regeneration and healing. Natural and plant-based ingredients are fantastic. Products that are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C will do wonders for your skin during pregnancy (and even in your everyday skincare routine).

Pregnancy safe customized facials under the watchful eye and care of a trained and licensed professional are a great way to keep your skin healthy and happy during this time.

Just remember to take care of your skin and be mindful of the products and ingredients you’re putting in your body during this time. We want you and your baby healthy and smiling.