The First Step in Caring for Your Skin During Pregnancy

As if you don’t already have enough to think about when you’re busy growing a whole new person, consider how you’re treating your skin.

Why is it especially important to look at the products you use on your skin while you’re pregnant?

For one thing, your skin changes during pregnancy. You may find that along with your new sensitivity to smells, your skin is increasingly sensitive. Also, as your pregnancy progresses, stretching skin can become itchy and dry. So you need a product that will fit your skin’s changing needs.

You already know that your growing baby can be affected by what you put in your body, so you’ve probably read about the importance of a nutritious balanced diet and what foods to avoid. Keep in mind that your skin absorbs chemicals from the products that you put on your body, which means that your foetus can be affected by the products you use on your skin. This includes soaps, body washes and shower gels; the first step in any skin care routine is cleansing.

For greater peace of mind, choose soaps and washes that are specially formulated to be kind to you and your baby.

What to avoid:
You may find that exfoliants and cleansers with body scrubs are just too harsh for newly sensitive skin. Avoid potential allergens, and products that contain sodium laureth sulfate and other sulfates, triclosan, phthalates and parabens. While essential oils can be wonderful, there are certain oils that you should avoid while you’re pregnant, so make sure you do your research.

What to look for:
Opt for a gentle, effective, pregnancy-safe cleanser that moisturises and soothes itchiness. A rich, natural moisturiser, cocoa butter works it magic by making even the roughest, driest areas soft and silky. Olive oil can also do a good job of helping you care for your skin. Another deeply moisturising natural ingredient, shea butter will nourish your skin and leave it both soft and radiant. Vitamin E helps to reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks and imperfections. Ingredients like elastin and collagen will support skin elasticity.