Pregnancy is a time of profound change, not just for your body but also for your skincare routine. As your skin undergoes various transformations, from stretch marks to increased sensitivity, you might be tempted to reach for your favorite skincare products. However, many skincare ingredients that are safe under normal circumstances can pose risks during pregnancy. It’s essential to know what to avoid and what alternatives you can use to keep your skin glowing and healthy.
Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
1. Retinoids (Vitamin A Derivatives) Retinoids, found in many anti-aging products, have an amazing ability to reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture. However, during pregnancy, high doses of Vitamin A can lead to birth defects. Oral retinoids, like isotretinoin (found in Accutane), are especially dangerous, but even topical retinoids like retinol can be potentially dangerous for the baby.
Alternative: Instead of retinoids, consider using bakuchiol, a plant-based ingredient that offers similar anti-aging benefits without the risks associated with retinoids.
Peptides are generally safe to use during pregnancy. They are short chains of amino acids that help to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity, making them popular in anti-aging and skin-firming products.
Unlike ingredients such as retinoids or salicylic acid, peptides do not penetrate deeply into the skin or affect the body’s internal processes in a way that could pose a risk to the developing fetus. Because of this, peptides are widely regarded as a safe and effective option for maintaining healthy skin during pregnancy.
2. Salicylic Acid Commonly used in acne treatments, salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin and clears pores. While low doses in over-the-counter products medical researches generally consider safe, high doses, particularly in oral form, have been linked to complications in pregnancy.
Disclaimer: Since it’s unethical to conduct clinical tests on pregnant women, there are no definitive medical studies on how topical retinoids or salicylic acid affect a fetus. Consult with your doctor before incorporating new products into your routine to ensure that any potential concerns specific to your pregnancy are addressed.
As someone whose skin is prone to minor inflammations and pimples, salicylic acid has usually been my go-to solution. During my pregnancy, I chose to use a cream containing salicylic acid. In the first few months of pregnancy, when my hormone levels fluctuated, my skin reacted with painful inflammations that I had to address. However, this was purely my personal experience and decision. I’m not a doctor, and I do not advise using products with salicylic acid if you have acne or pimples without consulting a healthcare professional.
Alternative: Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), is a safer option for treating acne during pregnancy. It helps exfoliate the skin and reduce fine lines without the risks associated with BHAs.
3. Hydroquinone Hydroquinone is a powerful skin-lightening agent used to treat hyperpigmentation and melasma. Although its effects on pregnancy are not fully understood, it’s known that hydroquinone is absorbed in significant amounts through the skin, which raises concerns about its safety during pregnancy.
Alternative: Instead of hydroquinone, try using products with Vitamin C, azelaic acid, or niacinamide. These ingredients can help brighten the skin and reduce pigmentation without the associated risks.
4. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and some hair-straightening treatments and nail polishes contain it. Even though the levels are typically low, you should minimize exposure to formaldehyde during pregnancy due to potential risks of miscarriage and other complications.
Alternative: Look for formaldehyde-free nail polishes and hair products. Many brands now offer safe alternatives with lables like “3-free” or “5-free,” indicating they don’t contain formaldehyde, toluene, or DBP.
5. Phthalates Phthalates are chemicals that increase the flexibility and longevity of plastics. You can often find them in fragrances, nail polishes, and hair sprays. These chemicals may cause endocrine disruption, which can affect fetal development.
Alternative: Opt for fragrance-free or phthalate-free products. Essential oils can be a safe alternative, but always consult with your doctor before using them during pregnancy.
6. Some Sunscreens: with Octocrylen, Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3), and Avobenzone). Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, but some ingredients like oxybenzone can possibly penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. These chemicals can cause hormone disruption and potential harm to the developing fetus.
Alternative: Physical (mineral) sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are safer options. These ingredients sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays without penetrating the skin.
7. Parabens Parabens are preservatives you often find in cosmetics. They prevent bacterial growth. They seem to mimic estrogen in the body, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances and affecting fetal development.
Alternative: Look for products labeled as “paraben-free.” Many natural skincare brands use alternatives like phenoxyethanol or ethylhexylglycerin, which are considered safer.
Safe Skincare Practices During Pregnancy
In addition to avoiding harmful skincare ingredients, it’s essential to adopt safe practices during pregnancy:
- Patch Test: With heightened skin sensitivity during pregnancy, always perform a patch test before introducing a new product into your routine.
- Hydration: Pregnant skin can become dry and itchy. Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers rich in hyaluronic acid or glycerin to keep your skin hydrated.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from UV damage with a broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreen every day, even if you’re indoors.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Avoid harsh scrubs and opt for gentle exfoliation with natural ingredients like oatmeal or mild acids like lactic acid.
Conclusion
Navigating skincare during pregnancy can be challenging, but with the right knowledge, you can maintain a glowing complexion without compromising your baby’s health. Avoiding certain ingredients in your skincare routine and opting for safer alternatives can make all the difference. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your skincare routine during pregnancy.
Check my in-depth article on Retinol. I also included short rewievs of retinol products I’ve used!
References:
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)
- Mayo Clinic
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)