Skincare during pregnancy: what is (not) safe to apply?
A skincare guide for expectant mothers! During this exciting time, many mommies-to-be have questions about ingredient safety. For example, what about hyaluronic acid or salicylic acid during pregnancy? And why shouldn't you use retinol during pregnancy?
Discover what you can and cannot put on your skin during pregnancy and how to best tackle typical skin problems. Think of stretch marks, acne, pigmentation spots, dry skin or dark circles and bags.
What should you not put on your skin during pregnancy?
Due to hormonal fluctuations and your body adjusting to your growing baby, you are more sensitive to ingredients that irritate your skin or disrupt your hormone balance.
Fortunately, most skin care products are not harmful to your baby during pregnancy. That does not mean that questionable substances are wise to use. Moreover, you may encounter the so-called stacking effect: amounts that are considered safe per product, but together significantly exceed the 'safe' dose.
If in doubt about the use of specific care products or active ingredients, always consult your doctor or midwife.
7 ingredients that you should not apply to your skin when you are pregnant:
Below are six ingredients that you should avoid when you are pregnant. For example, because the substances can end up in your bloodstream and placenta. So grab your care products and check the packaging for the presence of the ingredients below.
- Retinol (vitamin A)
- Certain essential oils
- Hydroquinone or arbutin
- Synthetic materials
- Salicylic acid
- Formaldehyde and oxybenzone
- Propolis
1. Retinol (vitamin A)
Why no retinol during pregnancy?
Retinol (vitamin A) is the miracle cure for wrinkles because it can penetrate deep into the skin. But this is also the reason why you should avoid it during pregnancy. Too much vitamin A can be harmful to the development of your baby.
Good news! In our best retinol serum we use NovoRetin, a natural form of retinol. This slows down the breakdown of naturally occurring retinoic acid and thus supports the natural strength of your skin. That is why you can use our retinol serum RetinLift during your pregnancy, unlike other retinol products. Wait until the second trimester because of the essential oils that the product contains. Because of the skin-renewing properties of this product, be careful with sun exposure, especially if you are sensitive to pigment spots.
2. Certain essential oils
Although pure essential oils are a great addition to skin care, they have a powerful effect. Some types are therefore better avoided when you are pregnant, such as rosemary or sage oil. Some oils, such as those of citrus fruits, make the skin sensitive to sun rays. So be careful with this to prevent extra pigment spots. Are there scents that suddenly make you nauseous? Then definitely leave them alone! This is a signal from your body as a kind of instinct.
3. Hydroquinone or arbutin
This ingredient is used to reduce pigment spots, but it is not safe to use during pregnancy. It can lead to reduced fetal growth and jaundice in newborns. Are you getting a pregnancy mask? Then choose products that remove pigmentation spots in a natural and safe way.
4. Questionable synthetic substances: phthalates, sulfates (SLS, SLES) or parabens
Phthalates are actually chemicals from the plastics industry and you can also find them in care products such as nail polish, hairsprays and even shampoos. Sulfates are foaming agents and parabens are preservatives. Although the exact influence of such substances is not yet entirely clear, we say: better safe than sorry. Therefore, choose a shampoo without sulfates.
Also avoid synthetic perfume and opt for one instead natural perfume oil.
5. Salicylic acid
This ingredient is a favorite in the best products for acne and can be used against impurities and spots. Why no salicylic acid during pregnancy? Salicylic acid is a BHA acid with an exfoliating effect. Concentrations of more than 2% salicylic acid or use over the entire face is not recommended when you are pregnant.
You can continue to use exfoliants with glycolic acid or lactic acid (AHA) while you are pregnant. For example, in a mild fruit acid peeling.
6. Formaldehyde and oxybenzone
The names don't sound very pleasant, these substances can be found in sun creams. It is also a good protection against the sun, but can be unsafe for pregnant women. Better choose a sun cream with ingredients such as zinc oxide.
7. Propolis
Propolis is an ideal ingredient for any skin area that needs intensive yet gentle care. Although it is a natural product, we recommend our propolis cream do not use during pregnancy. This cream stimulates the skin and can cause skin irritation during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What is safe to use when you are pregnant?
Don't panic, there are still plenty of skin care products that you can safely use during pregnancy (and that are also effective!).
Argan oil
Organic argan oil is the all-rounder during pregnancy. You can argan oil for your face use, but it is also perfect for keeping the skin of your belly supple. Read our best tips for reduce stretch marks during and after pregnancy.
Tea tree oil (after the first trimester)
Due to hormonal fluctuations, you are not the only one who suddenly finds impurities marring your radiant face. Tea tree oil is a great, natural solution for spots and pimples. For example, you can use it as a pure oil for a acne treatment at home. Add a drop to your facial cleanser or cream. Note: the general advice is to only use tea tree oil after the first trimester (i.e. from 12 weeks). Never apply it undiluted to your skin.
Vitamin C and E
Vitamin C is another skin hero that you can safely use during your pregnancy. It helps reduce pigment spots, promotes collagen production and gives your skin a healthy, bright glow. A mask or facial serum with vitamin C or E is definitely an enrichment to your facial care when you are pregnant.
Want to get the most out of vitamin C? Then choose powder form like in our Lingonberry Bright fruit acid mask. Vitamin C as a powder keeps all the ingredients in the mask active before you use it.
Hyaluronic acid: hydration at its best
The raging hormones can make your skin feel drier than usual during pregnancy. Hyaluronic acid is your savior! It is a substance that occurs naturally in our bodies and is very good for your skin. It helps retain moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and resilient.
Read more about the effects of hyaluronic acid here and which hyaluronic acid is best.
Shampoo bars
As long as your hair looks good, right? ;-) Which natural products are good for your hair and safe to use during pregnancy? The answer is simple, you can never go wrong with one of our natural shampoo bars! They are organic, natural, eco-friendly and 100% zero waste. In addition, they are free from the aforementioned questionable substances sulphates, silicones, microplastics or synthetic perfumes.
Natural hair products
Natural shampoo bars
Want to touch up your colour? Then choose a hair dye that is as natural as possible. You can also freshen up your shade with one of our shampoo bars for brown or blonde hair. We even have a natural henna shampoo for red hair. Our shampoo bars contain only organic and safe ingredients that you can use without any risk during your pregnancy!
Natural make-up
Need a little extra? Our natural make-up without harmful substances is safe for your baby and positive for your skin!
Common Skin Problems During Pregnancy + Safe Solutions
Being pregnant is a special journey full of surprises: proud moments (like your growing baby bump!) and challenges (hello, hormones!). Your skin happily joins in this adventure. On the one hand, this can provide a beautiful glow on your face, fuller hair and fewer wrinkles, but unfortunately also for less positive changes. Think of skin problems such as:
- Pigment spots
- Sensitive or dry skin and itching
- Red cheeks (rosacea or couperose)
- Acne
- Itchy scalp and dry scalp
- Clown eczema (eczema face)
- Bags under the eyes
Pigment spots (melasma)
Pigment spots often appear during pregnancy due to increased melanin production. You can't completely prevent them, but you can reduce them with mild, natural exfoliation. Choose a peeling facial based on fruit enzymes and don't forget to use a natural sunscreen daily! Also read: pigment spot cream (best tested).
Sensitive or dry skin and itching
Dry and sensitive skin, sometimes accompanied by itchiness, is a common problem during pregnancy. Hormonal changes and increased blood flow can cause your skin to dry out or become irritated more quickly. Itching can be a challenge, especially on your belly, where your skin is stretched. You may also suffer more from dry skin on your face. Fortunately, you can soothe and hydrate your skin with gentle, natural products. Read here what you can do about a very dry facial skin.
Red cheeks
During pregnancy, you may notice that your cheeks turn red more often, sometimes even permanently. This may be due to rosacea or couperose, where small blood vessels in your face become more visible. Due to hormonal changes and increased blood circulation during pregnancy, your skin is more sensitive and these red cheeks can occur more quickly. Although rosacea is harmless, it can cause discomfort or insecurity. Fortunately, you can treat rosacea naturally during (and after) your pregnancy.
Acne during pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones can make your skin feel like a teenager again, even if you normally have smooth skin. This is due to increased sebum production. This gives you a beautiful pregnancy glow, but also clogs your pores, which can cause pimples or blackheads. Fortunately, you can effectively tackle pregnancy acne with the right natural skin care, for example with a cleanser for oily skin.
Avoid harsh treatments and ingredients such as salicylic acid (>2%) and benzoyl peroxide, which are often used for acne but are not recommended during pregnancy. Instead, opt for gentle and natural alternatives. Our range of the best acne products is safe to use during pregnancy, read the product description before use.
Itchy scalp and dry scalp
Suddenly suffering from a dry and itchy scalp? Blame it on hormones again. If you’re not using a shampoo bar yet, now’s the time to start. Give yourself some time to get used to this natural shampoo and you’ll notice your hair getting stronger and healthier! Our shampoo bars are designed to soothe your scalp and strengthen your hair.
➡️ shampoo bar against an itchy scalp: Shampoo bar Hemp.
Combine this with a few drops of argan oil as a nourishing mask. When you gently massage this oil into the scalp, you stimulate the blood circulation which helps against a dry scalp.
Clown Eczema
Clown Eczema causes a rash around the mouth is often worsened by synthetic skin care. And especially during pregnancy, your skin can react extra violently. Switch to a safe, natural remedy for eczema, like our Body Butter Hemp and avoid heavy creams.
Bags under the eyes
Lack of sleep, hormones and fluids can cause bags under the eyes. Do you wake up with puffy eyes? The Grandma knows the answer tip for bags under your eyes is a cold spoon. Use a nourishing eye cream, such as Flow Green Tea & Peptide. This beneficial product helps against a tired look and is even suitable for sensitive skin.
➡️ natural eye cream Green Tea & Peptide
Pro-tip against various types of skin problems during pregnancy
For extra care and treatment of skin problems, use one of our moisturizing facial sprays! These high-quality sprays significantly improve your moisture balance and skin texture. They offer (antioxidant) protection and help improve the barrier function, making them suitable for treating various skin problems. Our rose water spray is a wonderful refreshment in between and you can also use camomile spray for your little one's sore bottoms. Win-win!
Facial peeling during pregnancy: yes or no?
A soft facial peeling can help remove dull skin and reduce pigment spots. Avoid chemical peels such as those with salicylic acid and opt for milder alternatives. Lingonberry Bright is a brightening fruit acid mask that is safe to use during pregnancy.
Why the Oil Cleansing Method Saves Your Skin
De Oil Cleaning Method (aka oil cleansing method) is a gentle, natural way to cleanse your skin without disturbing its balance. This makes it a perfect way to cleanse during pregnancy, especially when your facial skin has become more sensitive. You can easily remove make-up and impurities, while your skin stays nourished and your natural glow is enhanced. View our range here natural facial oil that are safe to use during pregnancy.
With the right natural skin care, you can enjoy your pregnancy glow to the fullest and give your baby a healthy start! Do you have any questions about our products? Let us know, we are happy to help you.
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Our professional beauty tips are not a substitute for medical advice from your GP or midwife. For the safety of skincare products, consult a medical specialist for your personal situation.
If you are pregnant, you might also be interested in: buy natural baby shampoo.
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