Skincare for pregnancy
When expecting a baby, a woman is confronted with many changes. These changes are mainly to do with the body, but many mothers-to-be also face new challenges relating to skincare. Many pregnant women enjoy a clear complexion with a wonderful, fresh glow. Others have to deal with impure skin, redness or pigment disorders. In this blog post, you will find out about how the skin can change during pregnancy and how you can provide it with optimal care during this time.
05 January 2023 • 5 min. reading time
Table of contents
How can the skin change during pregnancy?
- Hyperpigmentation (melasma or chloasma) in different areas of the body, including on the face
- The stress on the skin can cause stretch marks on the tummy and other areas
- The skin can become drier
- The skin can become oilier and susceptible to impurities and acne
Did you know?
Some mothers-to-be suffer from pruritus (severe itchiness that can go hand in hand with redness and bumps). In chronic cases, household remedies often no longer help. You should also see your doctor to determine whether these skin problems can have a negative effect on your unborn child.
What can you do about pregnancy mask and other issues?
Treating acne in pregnancy
- Cleanse your face gently and thoroughly every day, avoiding facial cleansers that contain alcohol as these can dry out and irritate the skin
- After cleansing, carefully dab your face dry using a clean towel (make sure to replace the towel several times a week so that no bacteria or other germs can spread)
- Refresh the skin on your face with an alcohol-free toner or micellar water
- Use a mild, moisturising day cream
- If you are staying at home, you can leave the make-up off to give your skin a break
- If you are applying make-up, opt for caring products that also hydrate the skin and are non-comedogenic
What ingredients can be used?
- Plant oils such as almond oil, avocado oil, squalene and olive oil
- Shea butter
- Aloe Vera
- Plant extracts (including from roses, witch hazel, linseeds and algae)
- Clay and healing clay
What ingredients should you avoid during pregnancy?
- Retinol (vitamin A) is contained in some creams and serums; pregnant women should avoid cosmetic products with this ingredient and should not take it as a dietary supplement.
- Fruit acid peels have established themselves in the world of skincare and as an anti-ageing solution. However, during pregnancy, your skin can react sensitively to an AHA peel. Fruit acid peels contain ingredients such as malic acid (AHA, alpha hydroxy acid), hydroxyacetic acid (AHA, alpha hydroxy acid), lactic acid, amino acids and phytic acid.
- BHA peels (peeling salicylic acid) – this type of peel can also cause a reaction during pregnancy.
Tips for body care during pregnancy
Takeaway
When it comes to skincare for pregnancy, it is best to use mild cosmetics with dermatologically tested ingredients that are tolerated by sensitive skin. Make sure you supply your skin with hydration and nutrients. Your complexion can benefit from the use of antioxidants and moisturising active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Check out the best skincare for pregnancy at parfumdreams now!