Your cart

Your cart is empty

Pregnant Woman Holding her Belly

How to Build a Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Routine for Glowing Skin

Embracing the Pregnancy Glow

Pregnancy is a time of incredible transformation, both physically and emotionally. As your body nurtures a growing life, you may experience a range of changes, including those affecting your skin. While some expectant mothers enjoy the fabled "pregnancy glow," others may encounter unexpected breakouts, dryness, or sensitivity.

Building a pregnancy-safe skincare routine is essential to support your skin's health and maintain a radiant complexion throughout this special journey. By understanding the changes your skin undergoes during pregnancy and choosing products with safe and effective ingredients, you can embrace your natural beauty and feel confident in your skin.

Understanding Skin Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of fluctuating hormones, and these hormonal shifts can significantly impact your skin. While some women experience the radiant "pregnancy glow" thanks to increased blood volume, others may find their skin reacting in new and unexpected ways. These changes are often due to increased levels of estrogen and progesterone, which can affect your skin's oil production, pigmentation, and sensitivity. Below are some common skin changes you might experience during pregnancy:

  • Increased oil production: This can cause breakouts or worsen existing ones.

  • Hyperpigmentation: You may notice dark patches on your face, particularly on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip (melasma). This is due to increased melanin production.

  • Skin sensitivity: Your skin may become more sensitive to the sun and certain skincare products. Always patch test new products.

  • Stretch marks: As your body expands, stretch marks may appear on your abdomen, breasts, and thighs. These are caused by the stretching of the skin's elastic fibers.

  • Dryness and itchiness: Some women experience dry, itchy skin during pregnancy.

  • Spider veins: These small, dilated blood vessels may appear on the face, legs, or other parts of the body.

  • Skin tags: These small, benign growths can occur anywhere on the body, including the face, neck, and underarms.

These changes are entirely normal and usually subside after delivery. However, as you’ll soon find out here, adopting a pregnancy-safe skincare routine can help manage these fluctuations and keep your skin healthy and comfortable.

Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

Navigating skincare during pregnancy requires careful consideration of ingredients. While many skincare products are perfectly safe to use, certain ingredients have the potential to be absorbed through the skin and may pose risks to your developing baby. It's crucial to be aware of these ingredients and make informed choices about the products you use. So, with that being said, here’s a list of ingredients to avoid or use with caution during pregnancy:

  • Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives): High doses of Vitamin A have been linked to potential birth defects. This includes prescription retinoids like tretinoin and over-the-counter retinol products.

  • Salicylic Acid (high concentrations): While small amounts in cleansers are generally considered safe, high concentrations of salicylic acid, especially oral medications, should be avoided.

  • Hydroquinone: This skin-lightening ingredient may be absorbed into the bloodstream and is best avoided during pregnancy.

  • Phthalates: These chemicals are often found in fragrances and can disrupt hormone production. Opt for fragrance-free products or those with natural essential oils.

  • Chemical Sunscreens: Some chemical sunscreen ingredients, like oxybenzone, may be absorbed into the bloodstream. Choose mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead.

  • Soy-based products: While soy is generally safe, some studies suggest that high amounts of soy may affect hormone levels.

  • Essential Oils (some): Certain essential oils, such as rosemary and juniper, should be avoided during pregnancy.

Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Superstars

Creating a pregnancy-safe skincare routine doesn't mean sacrificing effectiveness. Many wonderful ingredients can nourish and support your skin during this special time without posing any risk to you or your baby. These ingredients can help address common pregnancy skin concerns like dryness, breakouts, and hyperpigmentation. Fortunately, numerous skincare ingredients are safe and effective for use during pregnancy. In fact, these pregnancy-safe skincare superstars include:

  • Hyaluronic Acid: This powerful humectant draws moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated and plump.

  • Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental damage and may improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

  • Glycolic Acid (low concentrations): Gentle exfoliation with glycolic acid can help improve skin texture and reduce breakouts.

  • Niacinamide: This form of vitamin B3 can help soothe skin, reduce redness, and may improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

  • Azelaic Acid: This natural acid can help with breakouts and may also reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

  • Ceramides: These lipids help strengthen the skin's barrier and prevent moisture loss.

  • Shea Butter: A rich emollient that deeply moisturizes and soothes dry skin.

  • Colloidal Oatmeal: Known for its calming and anti-itch properties, it can be helpful for relieving dryness and irritation.

Building Your Pregnancy Skincare Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide

Building a skincare routine during pregnancy is all about simplicity, consistency, and using the right ingredients. Your skin is going through a lot of changes, so it's important to be gentle and avoid overloading it with too many products or harsh actives. Focus on hydration, protection, and addressing any specific concerns you may have with pregnancy-safe ingredients. Remember, everyone's skin is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. Pay attention to how your skin responds to each product and adjust your routine accordingly. Ultimately, it's about keeping your skin healthy and comfortable as it changes during pregnancy.

Morning

A morning pregnancy skincare routine helps address common skin changes during pregnancy. Basically, it focuses on gentle, safe products to keep skin healthy and protected throughout the day. Here’s how you go about doing so:

  1. Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser like embody One & Done Oil Cleanser to remove dirt and oil. Look for sulfate-free options that won't strip your skin's natural oils.

  2. Treat: If you have specific concerns like breakouts or hyperpigmentation, apply a targeted treatment with pregnancy-safe ingredients like azelaic acid or Vitamin C, such as our Stem-C Serum.

  3. Hydrate: Apply a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid to keep your skin hydrated and plump, like our Stem Cell Gel Moisturizer, which is a bouncy gel moisturizer to protect and nourish the skin with a weightless finish.

  4. Protect: Always finish with a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to shield your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

Evening

An evening pregnancy skincare routine focuses on cleansing the skin of impurities accumulated throughout the day and replenishing moisture lost overnight. It also allows for the use of slightly richer products that can work their magic while you sleep, thus helping to address specific concerns. Here’s how you go about doing so: 

  1. Cleanse: Double cleanse to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. You can use an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser.

  2. Treat: Apply a pregnancy-safe serum or treatment, such as niacinamide or a low concentration of glycolic acid.

  3. Moisturize: Apply a richer moisturizer to nourish your skin overnight.

  4. Eye Cream: If desired, use a gentle eye cream to hydrate the delicate skin around your eyes. Our Water Cream can be a good option, since it’s a lightweight surface-refining fluid that sends water-filled MoistureZomes deep into skin to deliver continual bursts of moisture that last for hours.

Additional Tips for Glowing Pregnancy Skin

Pregnancy hormones can cause a variety of skin changes, and sometimes your regular routine just isn't enough. Hence why these additional tips below could help address specific issues, thus maximizing your chances of maintaining a healthy pregnancy glow:

  1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin and body hydrated.

  2. Eat a healthy diet: Focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

  3. Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to allow your skin to repair and regenerate.

  4. Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to reduce stress levels, which can impact your skin.

  5. Listen to your skin: Pay attention to how your skin feels and adjust your routine as needed. If you experience any irritation or discomfort, discontinue use of the product and consult with your dermatologist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I continue using my regular skincare products during pregnancy?

A: It's best to review the ingredient list of your current products and avoid those with potentially harmful ingredients listed above.

Q: How can I prevent stretch marks during pregnancy?

A: While there's no guaranteed way to prevent stretch marks, keeping your skin well-hydrated and moisturized may help improve its elasticity. You can also use products specifically formulated for stretch marks but be sure to check the ingredients for safety.

Q: Is it safe to get facials during pregnancy?

A: Generally, facials are safe during pregnancy, but it's essential to inform your esthetician that you’re pregnant so they can avoid harsh treatments or ingredients.

Q: When should I start using a pregnancy-safe skincare routine?

A: You can start as soon as you know you're pregnant or even when you're trying to conceive. It's always best to be cautious and prioritize your health and the health of your baby.

Q: Can I use essential oils during pregnancy?

A: While some essential oils are safe to use during pregnancy, others can be harmful. It's crucial to research each oil and consult with your doctor before using them, especially topically.

Nurturing Your Skin, Nurturing Yourself: A Radiant Pregnancy Journey

Pregnancy is a remarkable chapter in a woman's life, a time of profound change and anticipation. As you navigate this journey, remember that self-care is not an indulgence but a necessity. Nurturing your skin is a way of honoring your body and the incredible work it's doing. And by embracing a pregnancy-safe skincare routine, you're not just taking care of your complexion; you're creating a moment of peace and connection with yourself. The gentle touch of a moisturizer, the refreshing splash of water, the mindful application of sunscreen – these simple acts become rituals of self-love.

Plus, as you nurture your skin, you're also nurturing your spirit, fostering a sense of well-being that radiates from within. So, go embrace this journey with confidence, knowing that you're taking the best possible care of yourself and your little one – and let your radiant skin be a reflection of the love and joy that blossoms within.

Sources:

  1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): https://www.acog.org/

  2. Environmental Working Group (EWG) Skin Deep Database: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

  3. MotherToBaby: https://mothertobaby.org/


Disclaimer: **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is important to consult with your doctor and a qualified dermatologist or licensed aesthetician to determine the best approach for your individual needs.

Previous post
Next post
x