Skincare can be tricky to navigate at the best of times, but when you add pregnancy into the mix, it can become all the more confusing.
In the past, it wasn’t ever considered that you might have to change your skincare while pregnant. However, with a broad range of skincare full of active ingredients on the market, pregnant women are — rightly so — more cautious these days.
Some research shows that topical skincare products contain such a low dose that it will not impact the fetus. However, the general advice is to avoid using certain products altogether.
What are the products you should avoid and are there any alternatives? We break it down below…
Can you use retinol when pregnant?
Retinol and retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A. Studies show that when absorbed by the bloodstream, vitamin A can cause harm during pregnancy to the developing fetus. As such, experts recommend not using retinol or retinoids during pregnancy. The same goes for breastfeeding.
If you still want to use anti-ageing skincare, try the much-loved retinol alternative, bakuchiol. The product is praised for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and pigmentation. But is a much more gentle product.
Try: INIKA Organic Bakuchiol Serum Natural Retinol Alternative.
Is salicylic acid safe for pregnancy?
Salicylic acid is a BHA (beta hydroxy acid). It is found in many acne treatments, cosmetics, and skincare products. It is safe in small doses, however, higher doses can be unsafe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Due to quantities being uncertain in some skincare products, it is safest to avoid the product altogether.
Our advice is to speak with your general practitioner or healthcare provider for their professional advice.
Can you use hyaluronic acid while pregnant?
Hyaluronic acid is considered pregnancy-safe skincare! It provides vitamin B5 which is a great way to keep your skin feeling hydrated and plump when pregnancy hormones may cause it to feel tight and dull.
TRY: Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum.
What skincare is safe to use?
Generally, most skincare products are pregnancy-safe, with the exception of those mentioned above. That means all your favourites like vitamin C, niacinamide and the underrated centella asiatica are safe to continue using.
Skin may feel a little extra sensitive while pregnant, so where possible, patch test products to avoid a reaction.
It is always best to consult your general practitioner (GP) or dermatologist for a professional opinion.
