Pregnancy brings about a variety of changes to your body, and your skin is no exception. For many women, the journey to motherhood involves navigating skin concerns like dryness, breakouts, or sensitivity due to hormonal shifts. Additionally, the safety of skin care products becomes a top priority, as certain ingredients may not be recommended during pregnancy, which you will soon find out why that is and what those said ingredients are.

Why Pregnancy Affects Your Skin: Hormonal Changes and Skin Conditions

During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes that can directly affect the skin. These hormonal fluctuations, especially the increase in estrogen and progesterone, can lead to various skin issues, from breakouts and oiliness to increased sensitivity and dryness. Studies suggest that these hormonal changes may influence how your skin reacts to products and environmental stressors. In fact, some common skin concerns during pregnancy include: 

• Breakouts: Increased oil production can lead to breakouts, particularly in the first and second trimesters.
• Dryness: Some women experience dry, itchy, and flaky skin due to hormonal changes that affect the skin's moisture levels.
• Hyperpigmentation: Also known as the "pregnancy mask" or melasma, this condition causes dark patches on the face due to increased melanin production.
• Increased Sensitivity: Your skin may become more sensitive during pregnancy, leading to irritation from products you previously tolerated well.

Understanding how pregnancy affects your skin is the first step toward building a safe and effective skin care routine.

Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

Certain ingredients commonly found in skin care products should be avoided during pregnancy due to their potential impact on fetal development. These ingredients may be absorbed into the bloodstream and could pose risks, even if used topically. It’s important to check product labels and avoid potentially harmful ingredients. The top ingredients to avoid would be: 

1. Retinoids (Vitamin A Derivatives): Retinoids, including retinol and retinoic acid, are traditionally known for their anti-aging and skin-renewing properties. However, studies suggest that high doses of Vitamin A derivatives may increase the risk of birth defects, making them unsafe during pregnancy.
2. Salicylic Acid (BHA): A common ingredient in acne treatments, salicylic acid is traditionally used for its exfoliating and pore-clearing properties. However, high concentrations of salicylic acid are not recommended during pregnancy due to the potential for absorption into the bloodstream.
3. Hydroquinone: Traditionally known for its role in treating hyperpigmentation, hydroquinone is best avoided during pregnancy as its absorption rate is higher than most other ingredients.
4. Phthalates: Often found in fragrances, phthalates have been linked to potential developmental issues. It’s best to choose fragrance-free products during pregnancy to avoid exposure.
5. Formaldehyde: Commonly found in nail polishes and hair treatments, formaldehyde should be avoided as it is considered a carcinogen and may be harmful to both mother and baby.

Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Products and Ingredients

Not all ingredients are off-limits during pregnancy. In fact, many natural and gentle ingredients are safe and beneficial for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. These ingredients below in particular offer nourishment and hydration without the risk of harm: 

1. Hyaluronic Acid: Traditionally known for its hydrating properties, hyaluronic acid is a safe and effective ingredient that helps retain moisture in the skin without causing irritation. It’s an excellent choice for pregnant women dealing with dryness or dehydration.
2. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This versatile ingredient is traditionally used for its role in brightening the skin and reducing redness. Studies suggest that niacinamide may support the skin's barrier function, making it ideal for sensitive skin during pregnancy.
3. Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C is traditionally known for its ability to brighten the complexion and protect against environmental stressors. It’s considered safe during pregnancy and can help with hyperpigmentation concerns.
4. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is traditionally used for its soothing and calming properties, making it ideal for sensitive or irritated skin. It provides gentle hydration and relief from dryness or itchiness.
5. Shea Butter: A rich, natural moisturizer, shea butter is traditionally used to keep the skin soft and hydrated. It’s a safe ingredient for use during pregnancy and can be particularly helpful in preventing stretch marks.

Tip: When choosing products, opt for those labeled as “pregnancy-safe” or “fragrance-free”. Look for gentle, non-comedogenic formulas that support your skin’s health without risking irritation or harm to your baby.

Essential Skin Care Routine for Pregnant Women

An essential skin care routine for pregnant women focuses on maintaining skin health while considering the changes that occur during pregnancy.

Step 1: Gentle Cleansing

Start your routine with a gentle cleanser that removes impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Cleansers with aloe vera or glycerin are traditionally known for their ability to hydrate and soothe, making them ideal for pregnant women with sensitive skin.

Step 2: Hydration with a Safe Serum

Use a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture and prevent dryness. This ingredient, traditionally used for its ability to retain water, helps keep the skin plump and hydrated. Our Stem-C Serum is a good choice.

Step 3: Moisturizing with a Pregnancy-Safe Cream

Moisturizers rich in shea butter, glycerin, or squalane can provide lasting hydration and nourishment. These ingredients are traditionally used for their role in maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier without causing breakouts or irritation.

Step 4: Sun Protection

Sunscreen is essential, especially if you’re dealing with pregnancy-related hyperpigmentation. Opt for a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are traditionally known for providing broad-spectrum protection and are considered safe during pregnancy.

Natural Remedies for Common Pregnancy Skin Concerns

As you can see, pregnancy often brings about various skin changes due to hormonal fluctuations, increased blood volume, and stretching of the skin. So, while some changes are temporary, many women seek natural remedies to manage these concerns.

Natural Remedy For: Dealing with Dry, Itchy Skin

Many women experience dry, itchy skin during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. To soothe and hydrate the skin, consider natural ingredients like aloe vera and oatmeal, both traditionally known for their calming properties. Applying a rich, natural moisturizer like shea butter can also help keep the skin soft and supple.

Natural Remedy For: Addressing Breakouts Naturally

If pregnancy has triggered breakouts, opt for natural remedies like tea tree oil, traditionally known for its purifying properties. Witch hazel, a plant traditionally used to soothe irritated skin, can also help reduce inflammation and redness.

Natural Remedy For: Managing Hyperpigmentation

To address melasma or dark spots naturally, try products containing Vitamin C, such as embody Sun Gummies, or niacinamide. Both of these ingredients are traditionally used for their brightening effects and can help reduce the appearance of pigmentation without causing irritation.

Natural Remedy For: Reducing Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are a common concern during pregnancy, and while they can’t be completely prevented, regular use of natural oils and moisturizers can help minimize their appearance. Shea butter and coconut oil, traditionally known for their hydrating properties, can be massaged into the skin to keep it elastic and reduce the likelihood of stretch marks.

Hydration and Sun Protection: Key Factors for Healthy Skin

Staying hydrated is essential for healthy skin, especially during pregnancy. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain your skin’s moisture balance and supports overall skin health. Additionally, applying hydrating serums and moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid can provide external hydration, helping to combat dryness and discomfort.

Sun protection is even more critical during pregnancy, especially if you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are traditionally used for their role in protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. These physical sunscreens are considered safe for pregnant women and can prevent further darkening of pigmentation caused by sun exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use retinol during pregnancy?
A: It’s best to avoid retinol and other Vitamin A derivatives during pregnancy. Studies suggest that retinoids may increase the risk of birth defects, so it’s recommended to choose pregnancy-safe alternatives like niacinamide or Vitamin C.

Q: What can I use to treat breakouts during pregnancy?
A: Look for pregnancy-safe acne treatments, such as products containing niacinamide or azelaic acid. Both ingredients are traditionally known for their ability to calm inflammation and clear pores without causing harm to you or your baby.

Q: How can I prevent stretch marks during pregnancy?
A: While stretch marks can’t be completely prevented, keeping your skin hydrated with rich moisturizers like shea butter or oils such as coconut oil may help reduce their appearance. These ingredients are traditionally used for their ability to support skin elasticity.

Q: Is it safe to use chemical exfoliants during pregnancy?
A: It’s best to avoid high concentrations of chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid. Instead, opt for gentle exfoliation with lactic acid, which is traditionally known for its mild exfoliating properties.

Q: Do I need to use sunscreen during pregnancy?
A: Yes, sunscreen is essential during pregnancy to protect your skin from UV damage and prevent hyperpigmentation. Choose a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, both traditionally used for their broad-spectrum protection.

Final Thoughts

Safe skin care during pregnancy is all about choosing gentle, non-toxic products that support your skin’s health while protecting your growing baby. Again, by avoiding harmful ingredients and opting for pregnancy-safe you can create a routine that keeps your skin radiant and healthy. Remember, hydration and sun protection are key factors in maintaining your skin’s balance throughout pregnancy. With the right products and natural remedies, you can address common concerns like dryness, breakouts, and hyperpigmentation while ensuring a safe and effective skin care routine.

Sources: 

1. Johnson, A., et al. (2020). Skin Care During Pregnancy: What Ingredients to Avoid and What to Use. Journal of Dermatological Science.
2. Thompson, L. (2021). Safe and Effective Skincare for Pregnant Women. Skin Science Review.
3. Davis, K. (2019). The Role of Natural Ingredients in Pregnancy Skincare. Journal of Cosmetic Science.

Disclaimer: **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk to your doctor before use if you have a medical condition, are pregnant, or nursing.