Pregnancy and skincare

Hello my lovelies! Welcome back to B’s Beauty and lifestyle blog. This post is especially dedicated to all the mothers to be out there and those still experiencing post-pregnancy skin conditions derived from pregnancy. The biggest thing is the absolute change happening to the body, resulting in utter fluctuation of both hormones and bodily changes, which in turn, may result in anything from severe acne, stretch marks, or, in fortunate cases, a glowing skin. A new factor that I have learned upon incorporating retinol in my routine is that it is not safe for any pregnant or breastfeeding woman. This made me wonder about why and whether there are any other products also not deemed safe to use during this phase and utter lifestyle change. Of course, this is just a basic guideline and it is always advised to consult with your gynecologist and/or dermatologist in severe or uncertain cases. So let’s jump right in!

The most important factor to take into consideration is that the products used absorb into your skin and body, and therefore, in the unborn baby’s body as well. Although most products are redeemed to be safe, there should always be a balance between what enables your mother to be glow and the health of the baby, rather be safe than face any unnecessary consequences. Although most mothers experience a glow due to the overproduction of hormones, others experience a negative effect from this cause. The most popular skin care changes include, but are not limited to:

- Dry skin

- Hormonal acne

- Darkening skin (either melasma or cholasma)

If you have a pre-existing skincare condition, such as rosacea for example, you may also experience changes, either for the better or it may increase and become worse, thank you hormones. It is not always to determine the exact product type, such as exfoliators or serums, to avoid, but luckily ingredients can be pin pointed. Here are the ingredients to avoid in this phase:

· Retinoids: There’s a reason this ingredient is mentioned first, it is the most recommended ingredient to avoid whilst pregnant or breast feeding. In many normal cases this topical form of vitamin A is amazing for anything ranging from acne to aging needs and it is suitable for all skin types. Vitamin A is a crucial ingredient required for optimal health in skin, the immune system and even eye health. However, products containing retinols have been linked to severe birth defects including severe congenital defects and with up to 60% of children exposed to this, whilst in the womb, showing neurocognitive problems.

· Thioglycolic acid: sometimes listed as mercapto acetate or mercaptan, is found within hair removal creams. Although there is no concrete evidence or enough research to back this, it’s not worth the risk, due to the absorption in the body and the component being strong enough to remove hair and in turn damage hair follicles.

· Parabens and Phthalates: Both these chemicals are very common in the entire cosmetics industry, from shampoos to foundations, as they help to both stabilize formulation and preserve products. The problem is that they are both known endocrine disruptors that can affect the reproductive system and cause hormone disruption as well.

· Oxybenzone (in other words, chemical sunscreens): Oxybenzone and its derivatives are the most popular and frequently used UV filters in sunscreen. It’s proven to be very effective for protection against the sun, but has potential health and environmental effects that prove to be more negative. It is also an endocrine-disrupting chemical, which raises concern for developing babies during pregnancy, as it can cause permanent damage to both the mother and the baby. The fetus when born could even develop neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease in their adult years.

· Hydroquinone: This ingredient is usually in prescription form and is mostly used to lighten the skin and aid in reducing pigmentation, which is something that is likely to occur during pregnancy. The problem with this ingredient, however, is that it absorbs into the body very easily and very readily and may therefore pose a danger to the developing baby.

· Formaldehyde: Previously used as a preservative and disinfectant in beauty products, including nail polishes and hair straightening formulas, is a known carcinogen (in other words cancer causing agent) and can furthermore increase the risk of fertility and miscarriages. Although this ingredient is rarely found in products anymore, there are formaldehyde-releasing chemicals still found in cosmetics with a similar affect. These include:

- bronopol

- DMDM hydantoin

- diazolidinyl urea

- hydroxymethylglycinate

- imidazolidinyl urea

- quaternium-15

- 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane

· Dihydroxyacetone (DHA): The most popular ingredient found in self-tanners and in professional spray tans. The formula absorbs into the skin or may be inhaled during a procedure which in turn may pose as a risk for the developing baby.

· Benzoyl Peroxide: One of the most powerful acne fighting ingredients found in both skincare and over the counter medications may be too harsh for a developing baby and poses a risk to the fetus.

· Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs): Most commonly found in skin brightening and exfoliating products, these ingredient types naturally disrupt the skin barrier to achieve the desired results. Due to this, it heightens the possibility for opening the skin up to be penetrated by other unwanted substances, which ultimately may reach the womb or the milk glands.

· Aluminum Chloride: This ingredient is mostly found in antiperspirants and aids in controlling sweating. Although there is no concrete evidence in womb damage, it has been found to cause cancer which may be passed on through breast milk.

· Salicylic acid (in high doses): A common ingredient to treat different forms of acne, from pimples to whiteheads and blackheads (this is actually my go to ingredient when it comes to acne) due to its anti-inflammatory capabilities. High doses of it though, such as peels and oral medication, should be avoided during pregnancy, however any topical salicylic acid under 2% has been reported as safe. Therefore, you can still treat those pesky spots that may arise from the hormonal fluctuations.

Ingredients to consult your doctor about:

· Bakuchiol: This is usually referred to as the natural alternative to retinol. This extract is completely natural and is derived from the seeds and the leaves of the babchi plant. Although retinol is advised against using whilst pregnant, this alternative may be acceptable. However, there is not enough conclusive evidence to support this statement, so it’s best to consult your doctor on its usage and the amount to be used.

· CBD oil: A big hype ingredient formulated form the cannabis plant, without the THC extraction included. This is supposed to be a natural alternative when it comes to acne fighting, is presented in vegan makeup, as well as many natural face masks and other common skincare products. The threat to the mother and the baby is very low, however it’s still best to discuss this ingredient with your doctor, due to limited research.

· Essential oils: Aromatherapy and massage has become a cult favourite by mothers to be, especially in regards to soothing symptoms including morning sickness and backaches. The problem here arises in the essential oil type. For example, clary sage, juniper and thyme ARE NOT safe, whereas chamomile, tangerine and peppermint are considered safe. Again, it’s best to consult with your doctor in regards to other essential oil you may be exposed to and their risk factors.

Ingredients that are perfectly safe to use during pregnancy:

· Azelaic Acid: An antibacterial treatment that helps for brightening the skin in cases of rosacea or pigmentation and has shown some effects in combating acne. This is a perfect replacement ingredient when dealing with acne and hyperpigmentation as opposed to the above mentioned ingredients that help with similar issues.

· Grapeseed Oil (topically only, not the supplements): An all-natural oil found in serums and body oils mostly is perfectly safe when topically applied.

· Hyaluronic Acid: (While I’m busy typing this I’m actually wearing a double shot hyaluronic acid sheet mask, ironic) This is a top ingredient when it comes to hydration and skin plumping and could easily be a go to ingredient while pregnant, as it poses no threat to mother or the baby and it aids in keeping up and enhancing that pregnancy glow. Another tip about this ingredient type is to incorporate this in a cream on your baby bump to reduce or even prevent sever stretch marks.

· Lactic Acid: Although it was said to avoid AHA forms, this particular exfoliating ingredient is the exception, as it has been proven to be safe for both the mother and the baby, which is good news in regards to those pesky dead skin cells that will still build up over time.

· Niacinamide: Found in some gentler alternatives to the typical acne and rosacea treatments, this form of vitamin B3 can help to reduce redness and inflammation.

· Titanium Dioxide: This would be your go to sunscreen alternative, as it is the most common ingredient found in mineral sunscreens. Instead of absorption, it sits on your skin surface and deflects damaging UV rays. These product types can be used both on the face and the body during pregnancy and breast feeding. (Sunscreen remains such a vital step in any and everyone’s daily routine)

· Vitamin C: Another pregnancy go to ingredient type, especially for aiding collagen build up and for treating dark spots that do occur in some pregnancy cases. Furthermore, this ingredient is great for anti-aging, as it can safely enhance your skins vitality by protecting it from environmental damage, as it is a sustainable antioxidant type. Other pregnancy-safe antioxidants to try in your skin care products include:

- vitamin E

- vitamin K

- vitamin B3

- green tea

· Zinc Oxide: This is another source of a main active ingredient in many mineral sunscreens, which can be used during pregnancy and beyond because they aren’t absorbed into the skin, but simply sit on the surface. You’ll also find zinc in mineral makeups, which are a good choice during pregnancy.

There you have it my lovelies, a simple and effective means to make sure both you and your little one remain safe, but that your skin remains healthy and cared for in this new life phase and miracle journey you are embarking upon. Look after yourself and your new life growing inside you, you might just inspire the next person to do the same.

Keep going, keep glowing & keep growing. You’re doing amazing.

- B x

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