Most over-the-counter skin care products are safe for. However, it's a good idea to avoid certain ingredients, such as retinoids, hydroquinone, and phthalates. Skin changes, such as stretch marks, dryness, and hyperpigmentation, can occur during pregnancy. Products that are clear on everything include commodities like petroleum jelly and Aquaphor, and moisturizers with limited ingredients, says Markowitz.
And instead of chemical sunscreens, recommend mineral sunscreens such as Badger, Goddess Garden, and Blue Lizard. It's called the cult classic for a reason. Developed by a gastroenterologist, Tula's beloved skincare line harnesses the power of probiotics to achieve a healthy and balanced complexion, no matter what problems you're facing. Along with probiotics, this gentle yet effective purifying cleanser soothes with natural ingredients such as chicory and turmeric root, making it an excellent combination for expectant moms who are dealing with breakouts and blemishes.
A nourishing multi-tasking, Josie Maran Pure Argan Oil is ideal for hydrating skin and hair. A few drops all over your face will visibly moisturize and soften, and if you're dealing with particularly flaky patches, the spot treatment works wonders. In addition, your wallet will appreciate the inexpensive trial size that, in my opinion, more brands need to offer. After all, what is more disappointing than dropping a serious coin on something that disagrees with you? Forget Florida oranges, Australia is what it is when it comes to natural sources of vitamin C.
Australian skincare brand Sand & Sky leverages local heroes Kakadu Plum and Emu Apple to create their Dreamy Glow Drops, a biphasic serum (meaning it has oil and water) that sinks instantly to provide hydration (thanks to the addition of five types of hyaluronic acids), volume and everything about glow. The consistency is more water than oil, so it works fabulously under makeup and doesn't leave you feeling greasy or heavy. A clear serum with a gentle citrus rose scent, Ursa Major Brighten Up Vitamin C Serum is a lifesaver for fatigued skin. It contains all-natural ingredients and none of the bad ones (sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, etc.), which is perfect if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
You will find ascorbic acid polypeptides that provide your dose of vitamin C along with rosehip, aloe and edelweiss to intensify the antioxidant and moisturizing factor. Free of oils, dyes and fragrances, Neutrogena's superpopular hydrating gel is a favorite among many people with oily skin (including expectant moms) because its gel formula is lighter than most moisturizers. It is formulated with the powerful hydrating hyaluronic acid, a molecule that our body produces naturally and that acts as a magnet to attract moisture. The result? Smooth, beautiful and healthy skin without breaking the bank.
What's better than waking up with a fresh, bright face? YTTP's Moisturizing Night Mask is powered by a proprietary blend of superingredients such as maqui, acai, prickly pear, goji berry, sunflower, moringa and squalane to highlight your inner mist while catching some (much-deserved) zzz. Even better? It smells like cream. Obioha recommends Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum Brightening Skin Corrector, which combines vitamin C with hyaluronic acid to brighten the skin and minimize fine lines. Apply it twice a day, but be sure to apply sunscreen if you use it during the day, as vitamin C can cause sun sensitivity.
Hormonal fluctuations and increased androgen production that occur during pregnancy can lead to acne. While we know that strong medications like Accutane should be avoided, the jury disagrees with the most common acne-fighting ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Sometimes, pregnant women experience melasma, a pigmentation of the skin, also known as a “pregnancy mask”. Although it usually goes away after pregnancy, women may be tempted to use an over-the-counter topical treatment, many of which contain hydroquinone.
And although studies have not linked hydroquinone to any particular adverse effects, its high absorption 35 to 45 percent is worrying to experts. To soothe super-thirsty skin during pregnancy or breastfeeding, recommend SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Enhancer or B5 Moisturizing Gel (which also contains hyaluronic acid). Retinoids do this by helping superficial skin cells to exfoliate faster and by increasing collagen production to rejuvenate the skin. Karp also likes this mineral option from La Roche Posay, which has an ultra-light texture and absorbs quickly into the skin.
In addition to choosing products that are safe for your developing baby, you should change your skincare routine to help with common pregnancy-related skin problems. Launched by a mother who struggled to find clear guidance on what exactly was considered safe when it came to caring for her skin during pregnancy, her multitasking Gentle Actives Clarity Crème-Serum tackles a number of common skin problems related to pregnancy and breastfeeding without a drop of concern for ingredients. If you notice increased skin sensitivity during pregnancy, use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products, and don't try a bunch of new products at once. Sun protection is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself in the long term against wrinkles and skin cancer.
Rabach is a fan of SkinMedica's HA5 Rejuvenating Moisturizer because it has five different forms of hyaluronic acid, which simultaneously moisturize and soften the skin. He recommends keeping the skin comfortable while maintaining the skin barrier, gently cleansing with a regenerating hydrating body wash such as Dove, and after showering with a daily moisturizer such as those manufactured by Avène (specifically TriXera or Xera Calm), La Roche-Posay (Toleriane or Lipikar), Neutrogena (Hydroboost) and Aveeno (therapy for eczema). Yoon-Soo Cindy Bae, clinical assistant professor at New York University who also works at the Center for Laser and Skin Surgery in New York, also agrees that sulfur-based products are safe to treat acne during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The lightweight gel formula soothes and moisturizes the skin without it feeling sticky or greasy and blesses you with a fresh and perfectly filled face, courtesy of hyaluronic acid, one of the most effective ingredients available for hydration.
You're already going through a lot of changes, and finding new products that work with your new and existing skin problems can be tricky and honestly a little stressful, but there are options to help you fully enjoy your best glow during pregnancy. Dermatologists or primary care physicians sometimes prescribe more potent steroid products, and most of these are also safe. . .
