PREGNANCY SKIN:
WHAT TO AVOID AND HOW TO KEEP YOUR SKIN CLEAR DURING YOUR PREGNANCY
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause your skin condition to change. Sometimes there can be hyperpigmentation, pregnancy acne, or dry skin. When you're pregnant, it's important to use skincare products with ingredients that are not only safe for you but also for your baby. Fortunately, most skincare products are safe to use, but there are a few substances to watch out for when you're pregnant.
CAN SKINCARE AFFECT PREGNANCY?
Of course! Like in any stage or phase of your life, the things you put on your skin can impact you internally. Most topical creams or products sold today are pregnancy-friendly unless specified, however there are some ingredients which could be harmful to you or your baby. See the section below for these ingredients.
WHICH BEAUTY PRODUCTS SHOULD YOU AVOID WHEN PREGNANT?
Some ingredients to avoid are retinoids, high levels of salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone, and formaldehyde. The ideal skincare routine during pregnancy is, in any case, 100% natural, to ensure you do not use any artificial substances on your skin, which could cause irritation or breakouts, or potentially harm your baby.
WHY DOES SKIN BECOME DARKER WHEN YOURE PREGNANT?
It is a common side effect of pregnancy that your skin will become darker. This is because of pregnancy hormones producing a higher quantity of melanin, which pigments the skin. There is also a common condition called ‘melasma’ or ‘chloasma’ which is when darker patches appear on your skin. To help combat this, use sunscreen regularly. More information about this is given in our section on hyperpigmentation below.
WILL PREGNANCY SKIN TAGS GO AWAY?
One of the most commonly asked questions about skincare during pregnancy is regarding skin tags. It is common for skin tags to disappear on their own after you have given birth to your baby.
However, it is also natural (and not harmful!) if they do not. In this case, there are many ways to safely remove the skin tags, such as cryotherapy, however to ensure safety for you and your baby, many recommend waiting until after you’re done breastfeeding.
HYPERPIGMENTATION
Keep in mind that hormonal changes or shifts in pigmentation cause hyperpigmentation. This means that when pregnancy hormones have left the body after pregnancy, hyperpigmentation will usually disappear on its own. However, during pregnancy, it's important to protect your sun-sensitive skin even more than usual. Our SPF30 creams (with or without tint) are completely safe to use during pregnancy and afterward for your baby!
ACNE
Sometimes, pregnancy hormones stimulate sebum production and can cause oilier skin, impurities, or even pregnancy acne. In that case, the Witlof Skincare products for acne-prone skin can be safely used to control acne outbreaks. The Cleansing Mousse and Balancing Toner, combined with the Regenerating Oil Serum, can help you with that.
The pure, organic, unrefined rosehip seed oil that makes up 40% of the Regenerating Oil Serum (and is used in many other Witlof Skincare products) acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It has also been shown to fade scars and improve overall skin texture by stimulating collagen production. Daily use of the serum will help improve the condition and appearance of your skin.
DRY SKIN
Rosehip seed oil in the Regenerating Oil Serum also stimulates the production of elastin and collagen, which can be excellent for making dry skin look fresh and youthful. Other recommended ingredients for dry skin include baobab seed and avocado oil, ceramides, and niacinamide, all found in our Rich Facial Cream. When you use the Gentle Cleansing Milk in your cleansing routine as well, your dry skin will survive pregnancy with flying colors.
With the 100% natural products from Witlof Skincare, you can maintain your glow and protect your baby during and after your pregnancy.
Want to learn more about how your skin changes with pregnancy? Or want to know which products are best for you? Schedule a free online consultation with Caroline.
