Tips For Taking Care Of Your Skin Safely During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a special experience, but it’s also a time of big changes for your body, and this can make looking after your skin more challenging. You may notice that you develop hormonal acne or dry skin, discoloured patches, or become more sensitive to certain products. 

Skincare products to avoid during pregnancy

Pregnant mothers are advised to avoid certain ingredients because they may cause harm to the unborn baby. For example, retinol cream is a popular anti-ageing skincare product, but it contains vitamin A, which can be potentially harmful to foetus development if excessive amounts build up in the body. 

Common acne treatments such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid should also be avoided in very high concentrations, because they carry a risk of potential harm to a foetus. Skin lightening products containing hydroquinone should not be used for the same reason. Certain sunscreen products may also pose a risk if used in large amounts. 

Which skincare products are safe to use during pregnancy?

In general, so long as you avoid using excessive amounts, most products not mentioned above will not be a significant risk during pregnancy. However, it’s always recommended to discuss any concerns with your GP or a dermatologist, as we all have unique biological makeups. 

Natural skincare products

Many mums-to-be prefer to use skincare products that are 100 per cent natural and organic, and sometimes also vegan. This is because they are free from harsh chemicals and synthetic dyes and fragrances that could upset the skin, particularly during pregnancy when it may be more sensitive than usual. 

Vegan butters

Vegan body butters such as shea butter contain gentle but effective natural ingredients that will nourish dry skin, which is a common issue during pregnancy. It has a rich texture that will help to protect your skin’s natural moisture barrier and keep it soft and supple. 

Apply it in any area of your body prone to dryness, to keep your skin feeling comfortable and also to reduce the risk of developing stretch marks. Shea butter also has a light natural fragrance, and won’t be overpowering and nauseous as some perfumes can be during the hormonal fluctuations of pregnancy. 

Natural oils

Natural oils such as argan oil, coconut oil, avocado oil and almond oil are an excellent way to keep your skin nourished and smooth during pregnancy. They can also be used as massage oils, which can be a very relaxing experience, helping to relieve stress and any aches and pains you might be experiencing during pregnancy. 

These oils can also be used to soothe and soften any stretch marks on your post-pregnancy body. 

What to know about essential oils 

A note about essential oils: most essential oils are safe to use in moderate amounts or diluted with water (such as a few drops added to a warm bath) during pregnancy. However, if you have any pre-existing health conditions, or are experiencing complications with your pregnancy, it’s best to seek medical advice or avoid using them at all. 

This is because they may interfere with the way certain medications work, or have other adverse effects. 

Mineral sunscreens

Some women prefer to use natural sunscreens with mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide during pregnancy, because they are considered the safest of all sunscreens. They form a barrier on the skin’s surface that filters out the sun, but are not absorbed deeply into the skin barrier, so they do not enter the bloodstream. 

Mineral makeup

It’s generally safe to use makeup while you are pregnant, unless you have any specific health conditions that might pose a small risk. However, you may find that your skin is affected by acne breakouts due to hormonal fluctuations. In this case, look for oil-free products that may be described as ‘non-comedogenic’ because they won’t clog pores.

Another option to explore is mineral based foundation powders, which sit on the surface of the skin and are less likely to trigger adverse reactions. 

General tips for maintaining healthy skin during pregnancy

Check labels: To be on the safe side, always check product labels carefully, particularly if you have sensitive skin or pregnancy complications. Be aware of the potentially harmful ingredients mentioned above, and also keep an eye out for parabens and sulfates, and artificial fragrances that can be very drying and irritating. 

Moisturise regularly: Use plenty of gentle hydrating products every day to help your skin cope with the extra demands placed on it, and gently massage them in to improve blood flow and encourage absorption.