Pregnancy is a time of exciting transformations, however navigating a safe and effective skincare routine throughout can often feel confusing. With 90% of women experiencing skin changes during this time, here’s our guide on how to navigate your pregnancy skincare needs.
Whilst you may have heard about ‘pregnancy glow’, there are a number of changes throughout pregnancy that may impact and influence the skin in various ways. This is due to the complex endocrinological, immunological, metabolic, and vascular changes that occur throughout pregnancy in response to a developing baby.
Common Skin Changes During Pregnancy
Skin Sensitivity
Hormonal shifts and increased blood flow can heighten skin sensitivity, trigger eczema or cause sudden, adverse reactions to previously safe skincare products. Simplify your regime and maintain a healthy skin with daily gentle cleansing, a soothing hydrating serum/moisturiser and a physical/mineral spf.
Breakouts or Acne
Breakouts can be common with the increase of sebum (oil) due to the fluctuation hormones and are more likely to appear in the first trimester of pregnancy. The key is keeping skin clear and clean without stripping the skin or using harsh and unsuitable ingredients.
If breakouts or acne are of concern, always check in with your medical team before introducing any new acne product or medication as some may not be safe for you and your baby.
Melasma
Melasma is the name given to blotchy, irregular dark patches of pigmentation that may appear on the face. Also known as Chloasma or the mask of pregnancy, this increased pigmentation may appear in the later stages of pregnancy and affect up to 70% of women.
Triggers may include hormones, genetic predisposition, UV and environment exposure. Protect your skin daily with a physical/mineral sunscreen that includes active ingredients of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Avoid fragrance (aka Parfum) in products as they are known to sensitise and irritate the skin and may also cause photosensitivity.
Pregnancy Skin Care Guidance
During pregnancy, it’s always a good idea to check in with your medical practitioner if you are trying any new product, or if you are unsure about your current products.
Ingredients Not Suitable
Some ingredients are not suitable to use during pregnancy for example retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, chemical sunscreen ingredients and fragrance (a.k.a. Parfum).
Known Endocrine Disruptors
Be aware of known endocrine disruptors such as BPA, phthalates, dioxins, triclosan, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and polychlorinated biphenyls.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are highly concentrated, with some contraindicated to use throughout pregnancy. Use with caution and seek professional advice before choosing an essential oil.
Our Advice
Pare back and simplify your daily regime. Choose a gentle cleanser, a hydrating, soothing serum, a face oil and daily SPF.
Our pick? Bc Refresh Cleanser, Bf Restore Serum and Br Rosehip Oil.
Shop the Routine