Expecting a child is such an exciting journey, but there are some inconveniences that start to present themselves throughout. One of them being a change in your skin. While some women get that famous pregnancy glow, others get the infamous pregnancy breakouts. It is important to be careful about what to put on your skin at that time. It’s best to avoid prescriptions retinoids, retinols and certain acids. Some of these ingredients should still be avoided even after giving birth — especially if you’re breastfeeding, since topicals like retinoids can be absorbed into the skin then excreted into breast milk or transferred to the baby’s skin through skin on skin time. This is bad news for women who are prone to regular breakouts and oily skin. But there are products in the market that specifically cater to pregnant women and can really help with that pregnancy skin.
Please note: We are not medical professionals. This is our opinion based on research and experience. Please consult a doctor for any skincare concerns during pregnancy.
Skincare concerns when pregnant
The good thing to remember is that most of the changes are temporary and heavily hormonal based. The most common skin problems during pregnancy include:
- Acne
- Excess oil production
- Skin darkening
- Dry and patchy skin
Eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea sufferers may also notice big differences in their skin symptoms.
What skincare to avoid during pregnancy
Retinoids
Vitamin A is essential for maintaining good skin, immunological, reproductive, and eye health. However, when you consume it or absorb it through your skin, your body turns it into retinol. Retinoids, a form of retinol that can help reverse acne and minimise fine lines, are found in several anti-aging skin care products. However, in pregnancy, retinoids can be dangerous. The amount of absorption by topical products is likely low, but birth defects have been linked in higher doses. So, all retinoids are advised against during pregnancy
Prescription retinoids like Accutane have been widely documented for posing a 20 to 35 percent risk of severe congenital defects, with up to 60 percent of children showing neuro-cognitive problems with exposure in utero.
Phthalates
Phthalates are disruptive endocrine compounds that can be found in a variety of beauty and personal care products. In animal studies, phthalate exposure has been associated with significant reproductive and hormone abnormalities. However, there are few human studies to back this idea.
Salicylic acid in high concentrations
Salicylic acid is a typical component used to treat acne because it has anti-inflammatory properties comparable to aspirin. However, a study determined that products with a high concentration of salicylic acids, such as peels and oral medicines, should be avoided during pregnancy.
Formaldehyde
Since formaldehyde is a recognised carcinogen and, according to academics and professionals, can raise the risk of infertility and miscarriage, it is rarely used as a preservative and disinfectant in cosmetic products.
Alternatives to harmful skincare ingredients:
Now that you know what you need to avoid while expecting. Let's have a look at what can help you obtain beautiful skin without causing any significant harm.
Acne and pigmentationThere are some safer options to utilising retinoid-based treatments while pregnant if you're prone to breakouts or find yourself unexpectedly flying back in time with adolescent-like skin flashbacks. The BLEMISH REMOVER Serum by Elesya Skincare can effectively help you gain back your confidence by removing dead skin and helping your body fight future breakouts.
For a complete routine, look at the Adult Acne bundle.
Dull Skin
Topical antioxidants, such as vitamin C, can safely boost your skin's vitality by preventing it from harm and retaining collagen, just as they act like magic to strengthen your immune system and fight off free radicals in your body.
A nourishing oil can also work wonders! We recommend this one.
Dry skin
Pregnancy demands a lot of your body, so if your baby needs more water at any moment, it will take it from you. Dry skin is the result! Aside from drinking enough water, moisturising lotions like coconut oil, cocoa butter, peptides, and hyaluronic acid can help. The HYALURONIC ACID Serum by Elesya Skincare can efficiently assist your skin during pregnancy and provide that coveted glow.