The question of what skincare products to avoid during pregnancy is very important, so read what you can safely apply to your skin during pregnancy and what you should avoid.
This is reported by the Dr. Evin website.
The hormonal background causes many changes in the skin: for example, a pregnant woman may become more prone to acne, melasma and hyperpigmentation. Visible stretch marks and enlarged veins on the legs are also common.
Moms-to-be should carefully study the labels of cosmetic products and pay attention to the following ingredients:
Retin-A, retinol and retinyl palmitate
Retin-A and retinyl palmitate are derivatives of vitamin A. Although adequate amounts of vitamin A are important for embryonic development, some studies have linked excessive intake to abnormalities in the development of a child's head, heart, brain, and spinal cord. In addition, Retin-A is commonly associated with prescription products and skin care products, but many over-the-counter products contain vitamin A derivatives such as retinol and retinyl palmitate, which should be excluded from a pregnancy cosmetic kit.
Essential oils
Essential oils are often found in beauty products that are advertised as safe. In reality, essential oils can be very harmful if used improperly. Another problem is that we do not know how much of a particular oil is absorbed. Diluted essential oils are generally considered safe, but since there are many different types of oils, it is best to discuss the safety of any product with your doctor.
However, two commonly used essential oils are alarming: tea tree oil and rosemary oil. Tea tree oil is very potent and toxic when ingested. Its side effects include dermatitis, blisters, and linear IgA dermatosis. Pregnant women should refrain from using it, as these hormonal effects may be the cause of premature labor. At the same time, rosemary oil in high doses can increase blood pressure and cause uterine contractions.
Salicylic acid
This ingredient is particularly hard to avoid, as it is prevalent in many acne treatment products. If you are pregnant, you should look for gentler products. Glycolic, lactic and almond acids are considered safe and are good options for those who still want to achieve some exfoliation. These ingredients are only a concern if the doses of the chemical exfoliant are particularly high; salicylic acid at 2% or lactic and glycolic acid at 10% are fine, just consult your doctor before use.
Formaldehyde
Although formaldehyde has been banned from use in cosmetics in many countries, manufacturers are adding so-called formaldehyde-releasers - substances that release formaldehyde molecules and cause the same harm to the body - to products. The U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health says formaldehyde can increase the likelihood of fertility problems or miscarriage.
Shocking medical advice for pregnant women of past centuries
Hair dye
Due to frequent changes in formulations, it is very difficult to assess the potential risk. As a precaution, patients should refrain from hair coloring during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, when the fetus is in the process of forming parts of the body and organs. Thereafter, periodic visits can be made: so few chemicals are absorbed through the scalp that the potential risk from infrequent visits is very small.
Chemical sunscreens
Chemical filters such as oxybenzone and avobenzone are possible disruptors of hormones. Some studies show that these disruptors may play an important role in fetal health. They have been linked to childhood obesity, ADHD and impaired nervous system development. It is recommended to stick to mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
What procedures should be avoided?
Most aesthetic procedures, such as Botox and laser treatments, should be avoided during pregnancy. Botox and other neuromodulators contain toxins that paralyze muscle movement; if this toxin enters the bloodstream, it can have a negative effect on the baby. It is also recommended to avoid any strong chemical peels, fillers, laser hair removal and resurfacing, and radiofrequency machines.
However, you should not completely avoid procedures. Mild peels such as glycolic acid peels, facials and LED light therapy are generally considered safe for pregnant women. Just be sure to consult with your doctor.
What remedies are safe to use during pregnancy?
While the impressive list of remedies that cannot be used during pregnancy can be intimidating, the good news is that there are many alternatives that allow you to avoid sacrificing desired results. These include:
Glycolic acid and bacuchiol
This mild chemical exfoliant is known for cleansing pores, smoothing fine lines and uneven skin texture. The plant component bacuchiol is mild and provides anti-aging effects such as reducing wrinkles and tightening sagging skin.
Azelaic acid
This acid is great for addressing hyperpigmentation, rosacea and acne. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to prevent the formation of dark spots.
Vitamin C and niacinamide
Using vitamin C and niacinamide together is a much safer alternative to hydroquinone. You'll get the brightening properties of vitamin C while getting nourishing moisturization from niacinamide. This helps to manage hyperpigmentation and improve the evenness and brightness of your skin.
It is also advisable to learn that some pads can cause female genital diseases.
