As you embark on the incredible journey of pregnancy, your body undergoes numerous beautiful transformations, including significant changes to your skin. Among these, increased oil production, unexpected skin sensitivities, and the emergence of pigmentation or melasma are common occurrences. These changes are primarily driven by the hormonal fluctuations that naturally occur during this period. Understanding these transformations can help you navigate the skincare landscape during pregnancy.
Dealing with these skin conditions can be quite challenging. Accepting that these shifts are part of your evolving body is essential as many symptoms will gradually diminish after childbirth. Although it might be tempting to reach for over-the-counter solutions for persistent issues like hormonal acne or pigmentation, it is crucial to recognize that some skincare ingredients and prescription treatments may not be safe during pregnancy. Prioritizing your health and that of your baby should always come first.
During pregnancy, many women become increasingly aware of the ingredients they consume and apply to their skin, as these can directly affect the baby. Choosing natural options is often the best route, especially when it comes to skincare during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Being intentional with the skincare products you select is vital for ensuring safety and efficacy for both you and your baby. Opting for the right products can make a significant difference in your skincare routine during this transformative time.
ESSENTIAL SKINCARE INGREDIENTS TO AVOID DURING PREGNANCY
Research indicates that certain ingredients applied to the skin can enter the bloodstream, potentially compromising the health and development of your growing baby. It is vital to be informed about what to avoid during this critical period.
Experts strongly recommend steering clear of the following ingredients throughout your pregnancy:
Retinol (Vitamin A) – A Key Ingredient to Avoid
Vitamin A plays a crucial role in fetal development; however, excessive amounts have been linked to severe birth defects and liver toxicity. This potent vitamin is found in various prescription medications and skincare products, leading experts to unanimously advise against using all Vitamin A derivatives during pregnancy. Prioritizing the safety of your baby should be your primary concern.
A safer alternative: LAMAV Bakuchiol 4% Natural Retinol Alternative
This 100% plant-derived retinol alternative is gaining recognition as a gentle and natural substitute for traditional retinol. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, bakuchiol is rich in antioxidants, which help brighten and rejuvenate the skin while stimulating collagen production and reducing inflammation, all without the harsh side effects associated with retinol.
Benzoyl Peroxide – Common Acne Treatment to Avoid
A widely used acne treatment, benzoyl peroxide is known for combating blemish-causing bacteria. However, it can pose health risks to a developing baby, making it advisable to avoid this ingredient during pregnancy.
A safer alternative: LAMAV Sweet Orange Balancing Cleanser & Probiotic Toner
LAMAV’s award-winning Sweet Orange Balancing Cleanser effectively purifies and balances excess oil and hormonal breakouts. This cleanser features a powerful yet gentle blend of Mountain Pepper Leaf, Lactic, and Fruit Acids that work together to break down dead skin while minimizing inflammation, leaving your skin feeling deeply cleansed and calm.
Additionally, LAMAV’s Probiotic Toner is crafted with a unique blend of probiotics designed to balance the skin’s microbiome while reducing inflammation and minimizing the occurrence and appearance of blemishes.
Salicylic Acid – A Common Exfoliant to Avoid
If you’ve battled breakouts, you’re likely familiar with products containing salicylic acid. This effective BHA is renowned for its ability to exfoliate the skin and penetrate deeply into pores; however, it is another ingredient to avoid during pregnancy when used in high concentrations due to potential risks.
A safer alternative: LAMAV AHA Face Exfoliant
This powerful 2-in-1 exfoliator promotes cellular turnover while effectively breaking down dead skin cells for a thorough clean. Featuring fine Bamboo particles and Diatomaceous Earth, it gently removes dead cells to reveal a brighter and clearer complexion.
Hydroquinone – A Skin Lightener to Avoid
This potent skin lightener may be appealing, especially if you are experiencing pigmentation changes or melasma during pregnancy. However, hydroquinone can be absorbed through the skin, and experts advise avoiding this ingredient altogether during this sensitive time.
The harsh, synthetic skin lightening products are precisely why LAMAV was established! Our founder, Tarj, experienced firsthand how pregnancy can lead to skin changes that contribute to pigmentation and sensitivities. This personal journey inspired her to create safe skincare products for pregnancy that are both gentle and effective.
A safer alternative: LAMAV Daily Vitamin C Serum
This serum contains clinically proven, certified organic ingredients designed to brighten, protect, and promote an even skin tone. The combination of Vitamin C, Kakadu Plum, and Turmeric Extract provides antioxidant-rich, skin-brightening benefits. Furthermore, Organic Brown Seaweed has been included for its impressive clinical results, inhibiting the enzyme responsible for pigmentation (tyrosinase) by 97% in just 60 days!
Fragrance – An Ingredient to Avoid
Fragrance (also known as parfum) comprises ingredients that create scents and can sensitize the skin both in the short and long term. Dermatologists recommend avoiding fragrance for all skin types as it disrupts the skin barrier. Given that skin sensitivity often increases during pregnancy, this ingredient is one to eliminate from your skincare routine.
Essential Oils – Use with Caution
At LAMAV, our experienced formulators ensure that any essential oils added to our products are purposeful and within safe levels. However, since essential oils can penetrate the skin and trigger potential changes, we advise anyone who is pregnant to consult with your doctor and conduct a thorough patch test prior to use.
SAFE MAKEUP OPTIONS DURING PREGNANCY
If you are experiencing increased sensitivity or breakouts due to pregnancy hormones, it may be time to reevaluate your makeup routine. We recommend transitioning to a mineral foundation as they typically contain fewer ingredients, are breathable, and lightweight—making them ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin. LAMAV’s mineral makeup range utilizes 100% natural mineral pigment and is infused with Vitamin C and organic rosehip to nourish and protect your skin throughout the day.
SAFE BODY CARE PRACTICES DURING PREGNANCY
Effective Baby Bump Care to Reduce Stretch Marks
As your belly grows to accommodate your baby, stretch marks can become a common concern. While it is impossible to entirely prevent skin stretching during pregnancy, maintaining well-hydrated skin is the best way to minimize the appearance of stretch marks. Utilizing LAMAV’s Nourish Ayurvedic Body Oil can help lock in moisture and soothe the skin as it stretches.
Switching to Mineral Sunscreen for Added Safety
With ongoing debates regarding the safety of chemical-based sunscreens, there are now many excellent mineral sunscreens available that eliminate uncertainty and risk. When selecting a sunscreen, also ensure that you avoid any fragrance listed in the ingredients!
Choosing Natural Nail Polish Alternatives for Safety
Formaldehyde is a chemical commonly found in nail polish that can cause severe skin irritation and, at higher levels, may lead to respiratory issues. Prolonged exposure has been linked to certain types of cancer, so it is crucial to avoid this ingredient during pregnancy. Fortunately, there are numerous natural and lower-risk nail polishes available on the market that do not contain formaldehyde.
Finding suitable skincare products for pregnancy can be overwhelming, especially with a growing baby adding to the confusion! We recommend opting for certified organic skincare products whenever possible to minimize exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. With a plethora of fantastic safe skincare products for pregnancy available, choosing organic has never been easier!
The relationship between skincare and pregnancy is not a one-size-fits-all scenario, and it’s crucial to understand that skin sensitivity and reactions to ingredients can occur at any time, although they are more likely during pregnancy. To mitigate the risk of adverse reactions, we advise conducting a patch test with any new product before full use and consulting with your medical practitioner if you have any doubts about a product or ingredient.
