During pregnancy, most mothers want to ensure they have glowing, radiant skin.
However, this is not always an easy task. Pregnant women are prone to their skin becoming more sensitive, leading to developing rashes, redness, or irritation that wasn’t there before.
Many women also want to be particularly cautious about what products they are using when pregnant, (See Amazon) since certain ingredients may not be safe for use during pregnancy.
Here we provide a couple of helpful tips for pregnant women looking to have skincare routines that are both safe and practical.
Choose the Right Products
Of utmost importance when choosing skincare products during pregnancy is avoiding those that contain unsafe ingredients.
Most skin products contain salicylic acid which is generally considered safe, but in high concentrations, it may be unsafe for pregnant women.
Retinoids should be completely avoided since they are also generally unsafe during pregnancy.
When it comes to anti-aging products, an alternative to retinoids is safe topical vitamin C or hyaluronic acid. (See Amazon)
Stick to Natural Ingredients
Natural ingredients are typically more gentle on the skin and are often safer for use by pregnant women.
When choosing a skincare product containing natural or organic ingredients, it’s important to take the time to read the product labels and make sure you understand all of the ingredients.
The best natural ingredients to look for in pregnancy-safe skincare products are aloe vera, shea butter, allantoin, and avocado oil. (See Amazon)
These ingredients are very effective at moisturizing and soothing the skin and can be found in many different types of products such as creams, lotions, and serums.
Be Sun Smart
Because pregnancy can lead to an increase in sensitivity to the sun, it’s especially important to protect your skin when outside.
It’s generally recommended that you follow safe sun practices like staying in the shade as much as possible, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and most importantly using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. (See Amazon)
It’s also a good idea to avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours from 10am- 2pm.
Be Gentle with Your Skin
Create a gentle and hydrating daily skincare routine that won’t irritate your sensitive skin during pregnancy.
A good place to start is with a mild water-based cleanser that will properly cleanse your skin without stripping it of any natural oils.
Apply a gentle toner to your skin a couple times a week to remove any impurities and finish off your skincare routine by using a light, non-greasy moisturizer that won’t clog your pores.
Sensitive Skin Care Pregnancy
Consult Your Doctor
Always remember that in the end, the most important thing is to consult with your doctor before using any new skincare products.
Your doctor will be able to provide you with the best guidance on what products are safe for you to use during your pregnancy and which ingredients you should avoid. It’s always better to be safe than sorry and make sure you’re doing the best thing for both you and your baby.
In conclusion, a safe and gentle skincare routine is an essential part of pregnancy. During pregnancy, not every product is safe for use, so it’s important to look for pregnancy-safe options containing natural ingredients, avoid direct sunlight, and be especially gentle and hydrating with your skin. Make sure to consult with your doctor before starting any new skincare routine and enjoy clear and beautiful skin during your pregnancy!