Pregnancy is a pleasant period for every woman. However, due to hormonal changes, the skin is also prone to some changes. Pregnancy has both positive and negative effects on the skin. Thus, let's figure out what effect the pregnancy period has on the skin and how to reduce its negative consequences.
During pregnancy, endocrine, metabolic, and immunological statuses change, and all this affects the woman's body as a whole, and, of course, the skin. This is why it is extremely important to adjust your pregnancy skincare routine to the changing needs of the epidermis. Choosing the right products will help reduce negative changes and shine during this period.
How Does the Skin React to Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the body undergoes major changes under the influence of hormones that affect the appearance. Skin usually suffers from:
- Pigmentation. Due to changes in the hormonal background, namely an increase in the level of estrogens and progesterone, pigment formation is disrupted in the basal layer of the epidermis. This leads to darkening of various areas of the skin. About 70% of pregnant women pay attention to the appearance of hyperpigmented spots on the face, the so-called melasma or chloasma. Ultraviolet rays of type A and B come as provoking factors for the development of such pigmentation. The pigmentation process develops more actively with a lack of certain substances: folic acid, vitamins B and C, and microelements (copper, zinc, iron).
- Stretch marks. These are the most characteristic and frequent structural changes in the skin during this period. They are usually found in the areas of the body that are most prone to stretching, namely, the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and chest. The appearance of these changes is mainly associated with a genetic predisposition and race.
- Acne and increased sweating. In the first trimester of pregnancy, the ratio of hormones changes. This immediately affects the condition of the skin: in particular, the sebaceous and sweat glands begin to work more actively. This results in blackheads, pimples, and excess greasy shine. Such problems appear even for those women who were previously unfamiliar with these problems.
To eliminate these problems and help your skin cope with such changes, it is necessary to adjust your skincare by choosing suitable products. The issue of selecting appropriate products requires due consideration since some ingredients are contraindicated for pregnant women.
Skin Care Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
Dermatologists recommend being extremely attentive to the ingredients of creams, tonics, and other skincare products during pregnancy. The fact is that many ingredients can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, which can potentially harm the child. Here is a list of skincare products to avoid during pregnancy:
- Retinoids. They are usually added to anti-aging cosmetics. These are vitamins of group A, which accelerate the renewal of skin cells and prevent collagen breakdown. Taking skincare products with retinoids may result in congenital disabilities, such as fetal retinoid syndrome.
- Kojic acid, arbutin, and hydroquinone. These are whitening chemicals to avoid in skincare during pregnancy and breastfeeding, even if a woman suffers from hyperpigmentation. They disrupt the natural production of melanin, which is dangerous during pregnancy.
- Essential oils. Due to the low molecular weight, they are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, affecting the processes occurring in the body. Thus, rosemary, verbena, and sage oils are neurotoxic and can cause abortion. Essential oils of geranium and sacred vitex act on the body like phytoestrogens, affecting the hormonal background of a woman. Mint oil can provoke the appearance of uterine tone in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
- Salicylic acid. It is usually found in tonics, shampoos, and serums. The ingredient features antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, salicylic acid can be very dangerous during pregnancy. In the first trimester, its use is fraught with the development of splitting of the upper palate in the fetus, and in the third trimester, salicylic acid can cause inhibition of labor activity and anomalies in the development of the child's cardiovascular system.
- AHA fruit acids. These acids are found in face creams and peels that exfoliate the epidermis. During pregnancy, the skin becomes more sensitive to the sun, and AHA acids can cause unwanted pigmentation on the body.
- Hydroquinone. It is a popular treatment for hyperpigmentation. Yet, its effect on the fetus has been poorly studied. Thus, it is not recommended to use the ingredient.
So, now you know what skincare products should not be used during pregnancy to secure yourself and the fetus. Avoiding these ingredients will make your pregnancy skincare routine secure and effective.
Alternative Safe Skincare Ingredients
Trying to make your skincare more effective and eliminate negative changes, it is recommended to choose products with the following ingredients:
- niacinamide;
- azelaic acid;
- titanium dioxide (this ingredient comes as part of sunscreens with a physical filter);
- vitamin C;
- zinc oxide;
- hyaluronic acid.
These components nourish cells, strengthening the skin's barrier and eliminating visible problems. Thus, to ensure the best skincare during pregnancy, include the following products.
Best serums to use while pregnant
- Osmosis Rescue Epidermal Repair Serum is a high-active product that boosts epidermal repairs, neutralizes inflammations and toxins, and treats blemishes. A high concentration of Ozonized Ethyl Oleate improves the protective properties of cells and helps cells cope with all sorts of visible imperfections.
- Osmosis Replenish Antioxidant Infusion Serum is a powerful treatment for skin during pregnancy. It causes a high antioxidant effect and resurfaces the skin. L-Gluthathione comes as a natural detoxifier, while Niacinamide acts effectively to keep pores toned and shaped, improving the face surface.
- Oskia Super C Smart Beauty Nutrient Capsules come as a safe skincare during pregnancy. The product is rich in Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate and Tocotrienols, which create a powerful barrier on the face surface, protecting cells from environmental aggressors. The product improves the skin's health and keeps it even and radiant.
- Oskia Isotonic Hydra Serum is a super-charged treatment that boosts cellular processes and normalizes the skin's conditions. Its formula is rich in Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin that attract water molecules and prevent skin dehydration. Long-term moisturizing allows for maintaining skin health and a fresh-looking appearance.
Pregnancy Skincare Routine Tips
Finally, let's mention some tips that will help improve your pregnancy skincare and minimize the negative changes during this period:
- Proper nutrition. Nutrition has a great impact on the condition of the skin, especially during pregnancy. It is important to ensure a balanced diet. Add products rich in vitamins, protein, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Opt for red meat, liver, and fish instead of pork.
- Cold and hot shower. Changing the temperature of the water strengthens cells, stimulates their work, and gives firmness and elasticity. To enhance the effect of the procedure, combine a cold and hot shower with a light body massage. Afterward, apply a moisturizer or oil to wet skin.
- Massage. For future mothers, this procedure is not only pleasant but also useful. In addition, oils are usually applied during the massage, which is an excellent prevention of stretch marks.
- Make homemade masks. During pregnancy, it is important to make nourishing and tonic face masks. For dry, compositions with natural yogurt, oatmeal, and honey are ideal. For oily, lemon juice, honey, banana pulp, and strawberries are useful. Before bed, masks with aloe Vera, vitamin E, or almond oil help calm down cells.
- Get enough sleep. Healthy sleep is important for both beauty and health.
Now, you know what skincare is safe during pregnancy. One thing is obvious: it is important to change and adjust your skincare routine during the pregnancy period. In this case, you'll eliminate negative hormonal changes. Fortunately, the modern cosmetic industry offers enough solutions for all skin types, so it's not a problem to pick a suitable skincare strategy for your body.
