There are a lot of things to avoid while pregnant for various reasons, including certain types of food and even skincare products. Skincare is one area that pregnant people often overlook, as you apply products directly to your skin, rather than ingesting them like food.
However, it is essential to remember that whatever you put on your skin is absorbed into your body. For that reason, there are certain skincare products to avoid while you are pregnant that can cause harm to the growing baby.
Pregnancy Causes Changes To Skin
It’s no secret that pregnancy can cause significant changes to one’s skin. As hormones fluctuate during the nine months of pregnancy, some people can experience increased oil production, acne, sensitivity, and even discoloration. These changes to the skin during pregnancy potentially prevents one from reaching for their favorite products to combat these issues due to the makeup of the product.
With that in mind, here are the top ingredients in skincare products to avoid during pregnancy and why. It is important to note that you should consult with your doctor or dermatologist to discuss pregnancy-safe skincare as well as any other questions you may have.
Skincare Ingredients To Avoid
Retinol
Retinol (or products containing retinoids) are usually used for acne and anti-aging. This ingredient should be avoided because it has the potential to cause birth defects due to the large amounts of Vitamin A found in retinol.
Salicylic Acid (In High Doses)
Salicylic Acid is also typically found in products that control oil production and acne. Salicylic Acid can be in the form of toners, serums, chemical peels, or even taken orally. Large amounts of Salicylic Acid can harm the baby, especially in late-term pregnancies. It is generally regarded that small amounts of Salicylic Acid in topical treatments are pregnancy safe.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that is absorbed by the body quite a bit. Products that contain Hydroquinone include serums, toners, and creams that combat dark spots. Due to the high absorption rate in the body, it is recommended not to use this product during any stage of pregnancy.
Chemical Peels, Botox, and Fragrances
All three of these types of skincare products can cause extreme irritation to the skin during pregnancy. Even if you do not typically have sensitive skin, pregnancy changes the skin barrier, and you may find yourself dealing with sensitive skin for the first time. Chemical Peels, Botox, Fillers, and products with Fragrances can cause harm from absorption, but also cause a reaction on one’s skin. Especially with Fragrances and Essential Oils, these are not regulated by the FDA and can cause harm if ingested.
Skincare Ingredients That Are Safe
Many skincare ingredients are safe to use while pregnant, even if they may not be your favorite products that you would normally use. Here are some ingredients and products typically recommended while pregnant.
Gentle, Fragrance-Free Cleansers and Moisturizers
These types of cleansers and moisturizers are suitable for sensitive skin and are typically made with clean ingredients.
Hyaluronic Acid
This is a suitable alternative for products with anti-aging properties and those that provide heavy moisturization.
Vitamin C Serum
This is used as both a brightening agent and an anti-aging product.
Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid
In small doses, these two ingredients are generally considered safe, but it is recommended to consult with your doctor or dermatologist before use.
Again, it is essential to consult with your doctor or dermatologist with any questions you may have about skincare products to use while pregnant and to determine other products you might also want to avoid.
Whether you’re 9 weeks pregnant or 39 weeks pregnant, it’s generally a good idea to avoid products with high-absorption qualities, such as Retinol, Hydroquinone, and any Chemical Peel or high levels of Salicylic Acid, as it is the safest route for pregnant individuals. Thankfully, some pregnancy-safe skincare brands offer a range of products, including cleansers, moisturizers, serums, toners, and even sunscreens. Even if you do not experience that “pregnancy glow,” you can still practice safe and healthy skincare during your pregnancy.
