Pregnancy hormones trigger significant changes in your skin. As your body undergoes this transformation, it’s crucial to reevaluate your skincare routine. Certain ingredients may pose risks during pregnancy, while others are considered safe alternatives. Here are some essential pregnancy-safe skincare products to use during pregnancy.
Skincare products to avoid in pregnancy
Some skincare ingredients are considered unsafe to use during pregnancy because they may cause harm to a fetus when they enter the bloodstream or cause irritation in sensitive skin.
- Retinoids (Skincare products containing retinoids, which are used for acne and anti-aging)
- Hydroquinone (Skincare products for skin brightening)
- High-dose Salicylic Acid (Skincare products for chemical peeling)
- Cosmetic treatments (e.g. Botox, fillers, and lasers)
- Exfoliating treatments (e.g. microdermabrasion, peels, or exfoliating masks)
- Fragrances and essential oils (e.g. bath bombs and scented lotions)
Skincare products that are safe during pregnancy
- Mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers
- Hyaluronic Acid (A moisturizer with pregnancy-safe anti-aging properties)
- Benzoyl Peroxide (Pregnancy-safe in limited amounts)
- Vitamin C serum
- Low-dose Salicylic Acid (Not pregnancy-safe in high doses, in masks or to be taken orally)
Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Products
BIO-OIL Skincare Oil
BIO-OIL Skincare Oil is formulated for all skin types. This paraben-free face and body oil for dry skin can be used to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and other marks due to surgery, injury, acne, aging, pregnancy, and more. The lightweight oil can be fully absorbed in the skin. It is packed with powerful and natural PurCellin Oil™, which can lock in essential moisture without clogging the pores. It also helps improve the appearance of uneven skin tone in both light and dark skin types. Apply the oil twice daily for a minimum of three months to obtain the visible result. Apply it from the start of the second trimester during pregnancy.
PALMER’S Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks
PALMER’S Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks is a pregnancy-safe and non-greasy body lotion for all-over body use. It is free from mineral oil, parabens, phthalates, fragrance allergens, and dyes. It is hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested that is suitable for sensitive skin. It is formulated with a special blend of pure Cocoa Butter, Vitamin E, Shea Butter, and Bio CElaste. Bio CElaste is a powerful combination of Collagen Elastin, Centella Asiatica, Sweet Almond Oil, and Argan Oil. This rich cream concentrate helps improve the elasticity and suppleness of stretching skin during and after pregnancy. Ideal for stretch mark-prone areas such as the tummy hips thighs and busts. It is also recommended for stretch marks associated with weight fluctuations. It helps keep skin soft and supple up for 48 hours so it can stretch more easily.
BODYXPERT Stretch Mark Lotion
BODYXPERT Stretch Mark Lotion is a non-greasy body lotion, enriched with Cocoa Butter and Vitamin E. It helps soothe inflamed skin and moisturize the abdomen, arms, thighs, and hips to improve skin elasticity. It also helps stimulate cell turnover and reduce the appearance of stretch marks associated with pregnancy and weight gain. Your skin will become firmer, smooth out ripples and bumps, and improve skin tone and texture. The stretch mark lotion absorbs quickly to nourish and hydrate the skin without that icky, greasy feeling left behind. Apply it 2 to 3 times per day for the best results.