- Niwrka P
7 Skincare Ingredients To Avoid While Pregnant.-
By Niwrka P. - Brand Identity Designer | Skincare Professional.-
We may earn a small commission when you buy something using the retail links on our site.
You receive the news that you are expecting!
You are so excited, mentally decorating the baby's room, putting together outfits to wear, and then it hits you!
Every little thing you touch, consume, and apply to your skin will have to pass the rigorous test of approval or disapproval, three piles: Keep, Donate, Discard!
You start reading labels of products you never cared to read before when grabbing toiletries at the store!
Because that bundle of joy is the most critical thing in your life now!
You just entered the mama bear protection mode phase of your life!...it lasts forever!
Growing a new human inside your body can be a magical experience, filled with many benefits, such as glowing skin and luscious hair to increase confidence.
You have to pay attention to everything you put inside your body, such as food and beverages, and outside your body, such as skin care. This is why skipping beauty products that could be unsafe for your new baby is imperative.
While plenty of self-pampering and skincare products can make you look and feel your best, you'll need to avoid these skincare products while pregnant.
1. Retinoic Acid
Gold standard ingredient Vitamin A derivative.
Scientifically proven and documented to alter collagen, it boosts collagen production.
Treats signs of aging; accelerated cell renewal means skin rejuvenation.
Treats Acne.
It is considered a skin revitalizer. I personally love it!
Avoid topical and oral retinoids; the following and their cousins should be off-limits while pregnant:
Tretinoin
Adapalene
Isotretinoin
Tazarotene
Steer clear of over-the-counter serums and anti-aging products containing retinol or any derivative.
2. Salicylic acid
During pregnancy, the human body goes through hormonal changes and increased androgen levels, which can result in acne.
Salicylic acid, a form of BHA known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is commonly used to tackle acne and should be avoided in high doses during pregnancy.
Most OTC products with Salicylic Acid contain low doses, including body washes, cleansers, lotions, serums, and acne spot treatments. These are considered safe for pregnant women. But always consult with your doctor first.
3. Hydroquinone
It is a pigment-lightening agent used in bleaching creams.
Although this ingredient occurs naturally, it is the synthetic version most commonly used in skin care product formulations.
Hydroquinone application to the skin might cause an allergic reaction and increase sun sensitivity.
The U.S. FDA banned Hydroquinone from OTC cosmetic formulations but allows 4 percent in prescription products. Its use in cosmetics is prohibited in some European countries and in Australia.
Some pregnant women will experience melasma, and skin pigmentation, also known as the pregnancy mask. It might be tempting to use a product with Hydroquinone to combat pigmentation and dark spots. Still, Hydroquinone should be avoided during pregnancy. Because the ingredient is more likely to get absorbed through the skin and enter your bloodstream.
4. Formaldehyde
Used in cosmetics, nail polishes, hair products, and other things around us.
This ingredient has been linked to miscarriage and fertility problems.
It can cause irritation on the skin, nose, and throat.
The liquid form can be absorbed through the skin.
Although formaldehyde-releasing chemicals decompose over time, these also can be found in makeup.
Expectant mothers should avoid the following chemicals:
Diazolidinyl urea
DMDM hydantoin
Bronopol
Quaternium-15
5-Bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane
Hydroxymethylglycinate
Imidazolidinyl urea
5. Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals that appear in many beauty and personal care products, predominantly those that contain fragrance.
Phthalate exposure can cause dysfunction in the body's hormones.
It's best to avoid this chemical while pregnant.
6. Chemical Sunscreens
We know sunscreen is a must-have item, and chemical sunscreen it's
excellent if you are not expecting a bundle of joy.
Chemical sunscreen absorbs into the skin and then absorbs UV rays, converts the rays into heat, and releases them from the body.
Pregnant women should avoid chemical sunscreens with the following ingredients:
oxybenzone
avobenzone
homosalate
octinoxate
octisalate
octocrylene
These are endocrine disruptors.
My pregnant ladies should use physical sunscreen, also known as mineral sunscreen, instead of its chemical counterparts for sun protection.
7. Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl Peroxide is a topical antiseptic that kills acne-causing bacteria
commonly used to treat acne while pregnant women go through hormonal changes; this can cause acne in low concentrations, benzoyl peroxide is ok, and your dermatologist might recommend treating the condition.
Absorption of benzoyl peroxide into the bloodstream is minimal, and there is little risk to the fetus; however, further research needs to be conducted to know for sure.
The best course of action is always to read the labels of products you purchase and consume.
Please consult your physician before applying any suspicious ingredient on the skin while expecting.
Read about Mineral Sunscreen vs Chemical Sunscreen here.
Until next time!
Peace, Love & Light!
Let's Create Beauty Together
Â
Learn to layer skincare like a PRO!
Â
Join our mailing list at the bottom of this page!
Author: Niwrka P.
Is a Beauty Content Creator | Skincare Professional | Licensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist
With over a decade of experience in the beauty industry.-
Passionate about Esthetics and sharing knowledge!