Pregnancy was a tricky time for my skin. I had dark spots, red spots, dry skin, breakouts from hell hormones. Though I have always tried to stick to natural, organic beauty products, it was a sad day when I binge-Googled my fave products and found out that many of my beloved scrubs and lotions were off limits due to their possibly baby-harming ingredients.
It is always a good idea to talk to your OB GYN about what skin-care ingredients are and aren’t safe, however, I learned a lot from my Nancy Drew approach to pregnancy skincare. Below, I’ve shared some of the basic ingredients to avoid, and in this slideshow I’ve rounded up 9 of the best products that helped pregnancy-proof my skincare routine, making it one that was safe and effective.
- Hydroquinone – This is found in most skin-lightening treatments and many of the harsher acne treatments.
Five common ingredients to avoid in a pregnancy skin care routine:
- Hydroquinone – This is found in most skin-lightening treatments and many of the harsher acne treatments. Though results are not conclusive on humans, studies show that hydroquinone causes birth defects, low birth weight, and stillbirth in animals. What is certain is that hydroquinone absorbs into your system at a very high rate (unlike many topical creams that only act locally to the area that you apply them), and while it has not been definitively shown to cause adverse effects during pregnancy, it’s best to minimize your exposure to it until further studies can completely confirm its safety.
- Retin A/Retinoids/Retin/Retinol – Any form of retin (check the list of ingredients in your products) should be avoided. Be aware that retin is often listed in different ways (retinol on your night cream, retin A in your serum, etc.). Many of the best anti-aging skin care products have some form of retin, like my favorite night cream and serum. Total bummer, but a sacrifice that has to be made.
- Tetracycline – This antibiotic (including doxycycline and minocycline) treats several conditions, including acne and rosacea. Tetracycline is not safe to use if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. Research suggests that tetracyclines can have toxic effects on skeletal formation, as well as causing discoloration of fetal tooth development.
- Formaldehyde – Predominantly found in nail polish, though also used as a preservative in some skincare products, the CDC reports that formaldehyde could increase the chances of having fertility problems or miscarriage.
NOTE: Remember to consult with your OB GYN when in doubt of any product or ingredient in your skincare routine.
More Pregnancy & Beauty Tips:
- Struggling with Body Image During Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Acne: Treatment Do’s and Don’ts
- 7 Ways to Make the Most of Your Nighttime Beauty Regimen
How to Pregnancy Proof Your Skincare Routine
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For your belly
Mama Mio Tummy Rub Oil - This stuff is the best; if you only invest in one pregnancy beauty product this should be it. It is a thick oil but absorbs quickly and smells so good. And it worked for me. (I got no stretch marks on my tummy or breasts where I used the oil, but got some on my inner thighs from the swelling toward the end, where I never thought to use it!)
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For sun protection
Nine Naturals Sunscreen SPF 32 - We all know sunscreen is extra-important during pregnancy, when melanocytes have a greater tendency to darken our sensitive pregnant skin. Studies suggest that zinc oxide should be avoided during pregnancy, and Nine Naturals has an entire line of plant-based, rich and creamy pregnancy-safe beauty products that actually work!
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For breakouts
Mario Badescu Drying Cream - While most blemish treatments contain salicylic acid or benzoil peroxide, this one treats blemishes with sulfur (which my OB said was safe to use). So at least there is something out there to treat our hormone-fueled breakouts!
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For dry, flaky skin
Rodan + Fields Redefine Macro Exfoliator - This is my secret beauty weapon, and it isn't just for pregnancy. But, because skin gets so dry, exfoliation is key, and this is the best exfoliator out there. Hands down. And what you invest in the product, you'll save in facials---I haven't had one since I started using it.
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For hair and body
Happy Mama Body Wash & Shampoo - I loved the entire Earth Mama line when I was pregnant (and the Earth Baby line after my baby was born!). This shampoo and body wash is invigorating and full of yummy prego-friendly scents like ginger, grapefruit, and calendula.
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For anti-aging
Beauté de Maman - As I mentioned, many anti-aging and blemish products have ingredients that aren't safe for pregnancy. But this entire line, which is designed by an OB, is all natural and baby-bump safe.
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For sore breasts
Mustela Bust Firming Serum - Toward the end of my pregnancy, when my breasts were feeling engorged and sore, this serum was a lifesaver. Rub it on your breasts, chest, and neck to make skin supple and help with elasticity. And it smells good, too!
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For all-over moisture
SOOTHE Moisture Replenishing Cream - While my go-to moisturizer when I'm not pregnant is this one from Rodan & Fields, it has retin in it, which is a no-no when pregnant. So I switched to this one, which is great for treating dry and sensitive skin.
