Skincare Ingredients to avoid during Pregnancy - Skincare do's and don'ts

 It is always advisable to check the ingredients list before buying anything, be it any food item or skincare products. Do you know that certain ingredients can harm your fetus during pregnancy and create a nightmare for you? Yes, there are a couple of skincare ingredients to avoid if you are pregnant or a lactating mom. Even gynecologists advise the same too. 

Skincare Ingredients to avoid during Pregnancy

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Skincare Ingredients to avoid during Pregnancy

Retinoids : 

Avoid retinoids in any form. It can cause congenital disabilities in the baby. Retinoids are types of Vitamin A that speed up cell division. Retinoids are mainly used in creams and serums to target anti-aging and acne. Excess vitamin A during pregnancy is very harmful to the fetus. 

Salicylic Acid : 

It is commonly used to treat acne because it has anti-inflammatory capabilities. It is hazardous to use Salicylic acid or any peeling solution during pregnancy and lactation.

Hydroquinone : 

It is generally used in skin-lightening skincare products. It has high absorption rate than other chemicals. Hence it can quickly go into the bloodstream and harm the fetus. During pregnancy pigmentation, higher melanin production is expected. To avoid this, don't ever fall for such skin brightening creams or serums. Read the ingredients list properly before buying or applying.

AHA and BHA : 

Avoid any skincare product having AHA and BHA as ingredients.

Formaldehyde : 

Formaldehyde is mainly present in nail polishes. This is so harmful to the baby. Hence use nail polishes with formaldehyde-free, phthalates-free, and toluene-free. And same will go with makeup products as well. 

Several nail polish brands create such chemicals free nail polishes. It would be best to try out Nykaa nail polishes, k-beauty nail polishes, colorbar, etc. 

Chemical Sunscreen :

Sunscreens contain hormone disruptors like oxybenzone and avobenzone, affecting a baby's nervous system development. Instead of chemical sunscreen, go for physical and natural sun protection.

Essential oil : 

If you are fond of essential oils, then let me tell you there are certain essential oils you should avoid during this period.

Avoid - Basil, Juniper, Rosemary, Sej, Thyme, Cumin, Fennel

Use - Mandarin, Peppermint, Nutmeg, Lavender

Lavender essential oil is beneficial in soothing down the nerves if you are facing a morning nausea problem.

Laser Treatment :

Avoid doing laser treatments or any sort of high-frequency radiation treatments during pregnancy and lactation phase. It can hurt the fetus or baby.

Skincare Ingredients to avoid during Pregnancy

Skin Issues During Pregnancy and their solution 

Acne / Breakouts :

Acne or skin breakouts are very natural and normal during pregnancy. Lactic acid works excellent in this case. You can go with serums or creams infused with lactic acid as an ingredient.

Pigmentation :

Some women experience pigmentation on the face during pregnancy, and it's natural. This skin issue will not last after the delivery. You can apply DIY face packs like the turmeric-honey face mask, milk-rice powder face mask, etc.

Stretch Marks :

Getting stretch marks on the skin is natural as the body expands from its standard size. Stretch marks in the tummy area are average, but the intensity is hereditary. To minimize the power or to feel comfortable near the stretching skin, apply a thick moisturizer or body butter at the start of the second trimester. As much as you keep the skin hydrated, the more comfortable you will experience. I was using Palmer's cocoa butter during my pregnancy. Cocoa with Shea butter works great. You can also use virgin coconut oil instead.

Dry and itchy-ness :

Because of the stretchy skin (especially near the tummy area), skin becomes extremely dry and itchy. Sometimes you will feel a burning sensation as well. Applying body butter or thick moisturizer will help a lot to calm down the dry skin. Also, you can opt for coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil. 

I hope you have an excellent idea of what to avoid and follow in skincare during pregnancy and lactation. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and it should be memorable and not a nightmare because of some silly mistakes. 

You can share your thoughts and advice in the comment box below.