SKIN CARE IN PREGNANCY

What to avoid

Expecting mothers must be mindful of what they are putting in their bodies, including everything from the foods they eat to the medications they take, but it is also important to monitor what is applied externally to the body, and that includes skin care. Many ingredients that are safe outside of pregnancy should be avoided during pregnancy because the effects on the fetus are either unknown or could be harmful. Below we break down what skin-care ingredients to avoid until delivery and nursing are complete.

Retin-A, Retinyl Palmitate and Retinol

These vitamin A-derived products, available over the counter and by prescription, are used to treat a variety of skin concerns, including acne, fine lines and wrinkles, and pigmentation. However, they have been linked to birth defects and must be avoided while pregnant and nursing.

Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid Combo

Both of these ingredients are found in a wide array of over-the-counter acne cleansers and creams, and many products contain a combination of the two. While pregnant, it is best to select a product that has only one of the active ingredients, rather than a combination, to address any acne concerns. Additionally, look for products containing less than 2 percent of salicylic acid.

Hydroquinone

A common side effect of pregnancy is melasma, often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy,” which causes a brown pigment to form on different areas of the body including the face. Hydroquinone is a skin lightener, so it may be tempting to address the pigmentation when it first appears, but large amounts of this chemical is absorbed into the body, making it more likely to enter the bloodstream and affect your baby. It is best to wait until after delivery and nursing to treat melasma, and many women find that the melasma improves without treatment in the postpartum period.

Chemical Sunscreen

The active ingredients Oxybenzone and Avobenzone, frequently found in chemical sunscreens, are hormone disruptors and can affect fetal development. It is best to stick with physical and mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to protect your skin during pregnancy.

Please note that this is not an inclusive list, and it is recommended that you discuss the safety of the products you are using with your medical provider.

SERVICES INCLUDE:

Botox/Dysport | Dermal Fillers

Microneedling | Sculptra Aesthetic

Skin Care | Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy

EmSculpt Neo Body Contouring

Kybella | Microblading | Chemical Peels

Exosomes Stem Cell Therapy

Morpheus-8 Microneedling with Radiofrequency | Laser Hair Removal

IPL | Medical-Grade Corrective Facials

Elleebana Keratin Lash Lift & Tinting

Brow Shaping & Tinting | Dermaplaning HydraFacials