Pregnancy skincare routine: What to use and what to avoid

 

Whether you’re scuffling with unexpected cases of hormonal acne, or rough patches showing up across your cheeks, you might be looking for some new beauty products and thinking what’s safer to apply with a baby on board.

 

Here’s our list for a swift rundown of the skincare products safe for pregnancy and that isn’t. 

 

Aluminum Chloride

 

You’ll see this disputed element in antiperspirants, which is the ingredient that stops you from excess sweating. It’s controversial, but some research recommends it’s potentially cancer-causing and we aren’t sure conclusively if that progresses to breastmilk.

 

Verdict: Avoid

 

AHAs and beta hydroxy acids or BHAs

 

These famous skin brightening and exfoliating elements are still in a question mark as they might disrupt the skin barrier, which could expose the skin up to penetration of other elements. Lotions consisting of AHAs and BHAs should be avoided during pregnancy and must be replaced with organic skincare.

 

Verdict: Avoid

 

Azelaic Acid

 

This antibacterial element can be found in rosacea treatments and most acne products, as it works to decrease redness and reduce pigmentation. It’s not known to contain any potential side effects for mom or baby.

 

Verdict: Safe

 

Bakuchiol

 

This extract derives from the leaves and seeds of the babchi plant that is popular for its purple flowers, which is why most cosmetics that use it, maintain a violet hue and is proclaimed as a natural substitute to retinol. 

 

While experts recommend against applying retinol during pregnancy, there’s not ample conclusive proof at this time to decide whether a natural skincare alternative is safer or not, so it’s best to talk to your doctor first.

 

Verdict: Consult with your doctor

 

CBD Oil

 

Some substitute acne-fighting cosmetics, vegan makeup, and even all-natural face masks consist of this trendy element. As CBD oil doesn’t contain any THC, the danger to mom and baby is comparatively low. But, because its safety in pregnancy and postpartum are yet to fully known, some moms will avoid the caution and pass on it.

 

Verdict: Consult with your doctor

 

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)

 

Although it’s seen in multiple self-tanners and professional spray tans, DHAs aren’t suggested for application during pregnancy. The potential side-effects for a developing baby (through skin absorption or if you accidentally consume it) are yet to be known, so this chemical mist pose threat.

 

Verdict: Not safe

 

Formaldehyde

 

This chemical is found in some sap salon hair-straightening methods and nail polishes have been connected to respiratory complications and even cancer.

 

Verdict: Not safe

 

Grapeseed Oil

 

Frequently found in face serums and body oils, this organic element can be applied topically during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

 

Note: grapeseed oil supplements must NEVER be taken during pregnancy.

 

Verdict: Safe

 

Hyaluronic Acid

 

When it is about keeping your skin plumping and hydrating, this natural element must be useful, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Besides, it works well and strikes no harm to mom or baby.

 

Verdict: Safe

 

Hydroquinone

 

Brightening or skin-lightening creams consisting of hydroquinone are promptly soaked into the body (by as much as 45%, according to most studies), and may strike a threat to the unborn baby.

 

Verdict: Not safe

 

Lactic Acid

 

This specific alpha-hydroxy acid or AHA is found in exfoliating and products and strikes no threat to mom or the yet-to-be-born baby.

 

Verdict: Safe

 

Oxybenzone

 

In 2019, the FDA asked to do more research on oxybenzone and 11 other chemical sunscreen filters, which were suspected endocrine dissidents and potential carcinogens. Until we are completely sure that they’re safe, you might wish to stick to mineral-based sunblocks until childbirth and even while breastfeeding.