Reviewed by: Dr. Mary Lupo, certified by the American Board of Dermatology
Medical Disclaimer: The following content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals. The following content is provided to promote broad consumer understanding, and it is recommended that you check with an in-person medical provider before starting any new skincare routines before and after pregnancy and in general.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are milestones in a woman's life that can result in numerous physical, hormonal, and emotional changes. Among these changes is the alteration in skin condition due to fluctuations in hormones. These can lead to a myriad of concerns such as increased sensitivity, acne, hyperpigmentation, or melasma.
Fortunately, a carefully curated skincare routine can help manage these skin changes while ensuring the baby's safety. This article provides a professional guide to skin care during pregnancy and breastfeeding, including a careful selection of products to help maintain your skin's glow and health during these special phases of life.
What Happens To Your Skin During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
Pregnancy triggers a surge in hormones like estrogen and progesterone, significantly impacting your skin's health. For instance, you may experience increased oiliness, leading to acne or "pregnancy glow." Some women may develop melasma or "pregnancy mask," characterized by dark, irregular patches on the skin, particularly the face.
Postpartum and breastfeeding phases also come with unique skin issues. Hormonal shifts, lack of sleep, and stress can result in dehydrated, dull, or sensitive skin. Understanding these changes allows for a targeted approach to skincare, ensuring that you choose the right products to tackle your specific needs.
How Do I Create A Safe Pregnancy Skincare Routine?
Before we delve into product recommendations, it is crucial to note that not all skincare products are safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Certain ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid in high concentration, and hydroquinone should be avoided due to their potential risk to the baby.
With that in mind, here is a five-step routine featuring products safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding:
1. Facial Cleanser Safe For Pregnancy
Pregnancy can lead to increased oil production and congestion, making a high-quality cleanser an essential first step in your skincare routine. The Revision Gentle Foaming Cleanser is an excellent choice as it is designed to thoroughly remove impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
This soap-free cleanser contains natural ingredients like apple amino acids, which offer a gentle yet effective cleanse. It also has alpha & beta hydroxy acids to mildly exfoliate the skin and improve its texture and tone. Most importantly, it is free from potentially harmful ingredients, making it safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
2. Safe Sunscreen For Pregnancy And Breastfeeding
Due to heightened sensitivity to UV rays, your skin is more prone to pigmentation issues during pregnancy. Sunscreen is an indispensable part of any skincare routine. The EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 is a sunscreen providing broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Containing active ingredients like zinc oxide and octinoxate, this sunscreen deflects harmful UV rays before they can damage your skin. Additionally, it is packed with hyaluronic acid to boost skin hydration. As it is free from fragrance, parabens, and other harmful ingredients, this sunscreen is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
3. Best Vitamin C Serum Safe For Pregnancy
With increased sensitivity and hyperpigmentation risks during pregnancy, a good vitamin C serum like the Revision C+ Correcting Complex 30% can be beneficial. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from environmental damage, brightens the skin, and helps fade hyperpigmentation.
This product contains THD Ascorbate, a highly stable and superior form of Vitamin C that penetrates deep into the skin. It also features a blend of antioxidants and skin-beneficial ingredients to enhance skin radiance, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and promote a more even skin tone. Importantly, it is free from retinoids, making it safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
4. Treatment Serum For Dry Skin In Pregnancy
A treatment serum is crucial to further tackle skin concerns like dryness, dullness, and uneven texture. The Restorsea PRO Intensive Treatment 10X Serum is an excellent choice, featuring a unique enzyme called Aquabeautine XL.
This enzyme gently exfoliates dead skin cells, similar to retinoids, but without the associated side effects like skin irritation and peeling. Additionally, the serum is enriched with brown algae, which provides intense hydration and boosts the skin's luminosity. As it's free from parabens, silicones, and PEGs, it's safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
5. Best Eye Cream For Pregnancy
The eyes are often the first to show signs of fatigue. And during pregnancy and breastfeeding, sleepless nights can take their toll. To combat this, an eye cream like the Restorsea Revitalizing Eye Cream is ideal.
Similar to the 10X Serum, it contains the proprietary ingredient Aquabeautine XL, which reduces puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. It also contains a blend of nourishing ingredients that help smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.
The Best Pregnancy Skincare Routine For You
Remember, your skin needs are unique, and what works for one may not work for all. Therefore, always patch-test new products and consult with a dermatologist or a qualified healthcare provider in person before starting any new skincare regimen during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are times of great joy, but they can also bring some challenges for your skin. By understanding the changes your skin undergoes during these periods and using safe and effective products, you can maintain the health and vibrancy of your skin.
The five-step routine outlined above offers a comprehensive approach to tackle common skin concerns during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always remember that each skin journey is unique, and the most crucial step is to listen to your skin's needs and respond accordingly.
