Safe Skincare to Enhance Your Pregnancy Glow
With the many changes and feelings a pregnancy can provoke, the skin can demand special attention and care. For many expectant mothers, it's a time to review their usual skincare routine through a new lens—one that prioritises not just beauty, but safety.
Understanding Pregnancy-Safe Skincare
The importance of pregnancy-safe skincare cannot be overstated, as the choices made during this time affect not just the mother, but the developing baby as well. And while the goal isn't to generate fear or anxiety around skincare, knowing what products to go for is essential to address common concerns, including hormonal breakouts, hyperpigmentation, and rosacea.
You might've heard of the term "pregnancy-safe", which carries profound significance. It refers to products formulated without ingredients that could potentially harm the mother or the child. But what makes a product safe for pregnancy? The answer often lies beneath the skin's surface.
Defining "Pregnancy-Safe" in the Context of Skincare
Pregnancy-safe skincare indicates the absence of certain ingredients, such as teratogens (this includes ingredients like Tretinoin) —substances that can disturb the development of the fetus— and the presence of gentle, non-irritating ones. These products respect the delicate hormonal levels and the increased sensitivity many women experience during pregnancy.
The Impact of Absorption: How Skincare Ingredients Enter the System
The skin, being the largest organ, is a challenging barrier as it's selectively permeable. This means that while it protects the body from external aggressors, it can also absorb substances into the bloodstream. During pregnancy, the concern escalates as certain absorbed ingredients can cross the placental barrier, reaching the fetus. The tagline for skincare in pregnancy is caution (without fear), as the effects of some ingredients during fetal development are not fully understood.
Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
Navigating the skincare aisle or your bathroom cabinet becomes a bit more complex with a baby on the way. Not all products on the shelves are fair game; some are best left until after delivery.
The No-Go List: Ingredients and Why They're Unsafe
Several ingredients are commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. These include:
- Retinoids: commonly found in anti-ageing products, including some of our Night formulas. due to their association with birth defects.
- High-dose salicylic acid: used for acne treatment, is another concern, as it's related to aspirin and could pose risks similar to taking oral aspirin during pregnancy.
- Chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone: discouraged due to potential endocrine-disrupting properties.
- The list continues with formaldehyde, certain essential oils, and phthalates.
Discuss any concerns or doubts about a product or ingredient with your healthcare professional. Remember, caution is your best approach.
Skincare Ingredients That Benefit Pregnant Women
While certain ingredients are off-limits, many are not only safe but also beneficial during pregnancy. These ingredients cater to the common skin changes that can occur during this time, providing the nourishment and care that the mother and baby need. Some of these include:
- Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides: Excellent for hydration, helping to maintain skin elasticity and prevent stretch marks.
- Vitamin C (in its safe forms): Can help with pigmentation issues like melasma, which is common during pregnancy. It’s crucial to choose stable, non-acidic forms of Vitamin C that are effective without irritating the skin.
The Do's in Pregnancy Skincare: Hydrating, Soothing, and Protecting
Pregnancy-safe skin care should focus on hydration, soothing ingredients, and protection. No two pregnancies are alike, and skincare should be as unique as the individual. Personalising your skincare routine during pregnancy is vital, and professional guidance can ensure that it is safe and effective.
When meeting with a healthcare provider, discuss any current skincare products and their ingredients. It's also important to mention any noticeable changes in your skin since becoming pregnant and if you have any concerns moving forward.
The Secret Skincare for Pregnancy
Luckily, you can start your skin journey while pregnant with our Secret. Complete our 5-minute skin questionnaire to receive the Doctor’s recommendations for our range of products that can best suit your skin needs. In the meantime, check out The Secret Prescription Range crafted for pregnancy:
Day Cream
Our Day Elixir’s were intended by our doctors to support the outcomes of your active Night Cream, enhance results and add further glow to your complexion. Designed also with the everyday individual in mind – this formula is suitable for use underneath sunscreen and creates a perfect base for the application of any makeup. We have curated two Day Cream formulas, our doctors will review your medical questionnaire and select the one most suitable for your individual skin concerns.
Pregnancy Brightening Night Cream
This cream addresses melasma and other hormonal skin changes during pregnancy using prescription fading ingredients and brightening actives to reduce melanin production, enhance collagen and elastin, and repair environmental damage. The result is a smoother, more uniform complexion that radiates health and the coveted "pregnancy glow."
Pregnancy Clarifying Night Cream
Your new Secret to embrace the true essence of the "pregnancy glow". Specially formulated to address hormonal acne and inflammation during pregnancy, this night cream combines topical antibiotics and brightening actives to clear congestion and refine skin texture, ensuring a clearer, more radiant complexion while being safe for yourself and your baby.
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As you prepare to welcome your new addition, reassess, consult, and take proactive steps considering the safety of you and your baby - the guiding principle for your skincare routine. Safety does not mean compromising on quality, so embrace this special time with peace of mind, knowing your skincare supports your well-being and that of your baby.
To start The Secret journey for clear, glowing skin or for any questions or advice, contact us online. We're here to work with you every step of the way!
