Skincare ingredients to avoid during pregnancy

Pregnancy is such a wonderful time for every momma, but it also comes with a lot of confusion and worry. Can I eat this? Can I drink this? Is my bath too hot? A lot of our usual daily routine has to change and we have to think about every last little detail to ensure we keep ourselves, and our baby/babies safe. 

To throw another curveball in the mix, we also have to consider our skincare routine and the products we use. Your daily retinol? Forget it. Chemical sunscreen - put it away. It doesn’t need to be complicated though, below we’ve outlined the key skincare ingredients to avoid during your pregnancy, but also a lovely routine that is 100% safe for you and your baby. 

You will possibly see some changes to your skin during pregnancy. Including acne, oiliness and dry skin. Hormone changes can also cause imbalances that may lead to skin concerns you’ve never dealt with before.

Retinoids

Vitamin A derivatives and others can lead to severe birth defects. Of course, it’s important to have an adequate amount of Vitamin A for your baby’s development, but it’s best to avoid these vitamin A derivatives in your topical skincare routine, which can negatively affect the development of your baby. Of course, please check with your physician if in doubt.

Chemical Sunscreen

Pregnant or not, wearing sunscreen is a MUST, always. However during pregnancy you need to think more about the types of sun protection you are using. To stay on the safe side, it is advised to use mineral sunscreens when you are pregnant. Avoid sunscreens that contain the ingredient  Oxybenzone. 

Salicylic Acid

Also in category C, Salicylic acid is a popular ingredient that can be hard for expectant mothers to put down due to it’s benefits for acne prone skin (acne is common during pregnancy, too). You often find salicylic acid in: 

• topical acne medications
• treatments for skin inflammation and redness
• anti-aging products
• cleansers, toners, and exfoliants

A safe alternative to Salicylic acid is glycolic acid, an acid that benefits from antibacterial and antioxidant activity and can help improve skin's appearance when you have acne. 

Hydroquinone 

Pregnancy is renowned for causing unwanted dark spots and melasma, so a skin lightener containing hydroquinone can be tempting. Whilst there isn’t much significant scientific evidence about whether hydroquinone is passed along to the baby during pregnancy, it is safest to avoid hydroquinone during pregnancy due to the potential risks. The FDA has also put hydroquinone in Category C which means there is a possible adverse effect on a fetus. Try using a Vitamin C serum instead for brightening any skin discolouration's.

Pregnancy safe skincare routine

To keep skin hydrated during pregnancy, we love our Hydration Heaven Bundle. Featuring essential products for a safe, 3-Step Skincare Routine for dry and sensitive skin. 

Step 1: The Nourishing Cleansing Oil is a 100% natural origin based cleanser that dissolves make up, dirt and grime while also removing impurities and cleansing skin without stripping it of moisture.

Step 2:  Our Rose Toner helps balance pH, tone, hydrate and refresh the skin. Formulated with Rosewater and Hyaluronic Acid to support skin's moisture barrier for a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion. 

Step 3: Brighter Day Serum is Formulated with super-stable and lipid soluble Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate. This is a powerful yet gentle vitamin C serum that brightens uneven skin while improving the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Revealing a glowing complexion. 

Step 4: The Peptide Cloud Cream is a rich, nourishing face moisturiser with peptides to help plump the skin and preserve collagen structures. Perfect for sensitive skin during pregnancy. 

*Please always seek professional medical advice when pregnant or breastfeeding.