THE DOS AND DON'TS OF PREGNANCY SKINCARE
Photo via The Clinic
As any mother-to-be can attest, the moment you discover a little one is on its way, your decisions take on an entirely new meaning. Should you have that morning cup of coffee? Is it ok to dye your hair? What do you need to remove from your current skincare regime?
While most will be met with conflicting information – from your midwife or obstetrician, your grandmother and even your neighbour. And despite many pregnant women getting that desirable ‘pregnancy glow’, it doesn’t come naturally to all of us.
Speaking with a professional, like the team at Sydney’s The Clinic, to help you devise a specialised skincare plan that will keep your skin radiant and bright, with your baby’s safety top of mind is a great place to start.
Here they share some of the top dos and don’ts when it comes to looking after your skin during pregnancy.
Don’t:
Don’t freak out if your skin changes during pregnancy or breastfeeding. During this time there are many hormonal changes happening in your body; breakouts, melasma or abnormal hair growth are your body’s natural reactions to these. Know that whatever your skin is doing, there are options.
Do:
Ask experts for their opinions. At The Clinic we employ only doctors and registered nurses who have the most up to date information and access to resources. We will devise a skin care plan that is safe for both you and your baby.
Do:
Book in for regular peels. Whilst stronger treatments such as IPL, Fraxel or Thermage are not safe during pregnancy, regular peels 4-6 weeks apart are ideal for correcting superficial concerns such as breakouts, dry, dull or flaky skin. Both our Blueberry Peel and Societe Oxygenation Peel are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and will help to refresh and revive tired & dull skin.
Don’t:
Use products containing Retin A, Accutane, Retinoids, Vitamin A or Salicyclic Acid. These are either not safe or simply don't have enough information around their safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always check the label with your obstetrician.
Do:
Incorporate Lactic Acid into your regime. Lactic Acid is naturally occurring in the body and safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Lactic Acid is particularly good for reducing congestion and keeping the skin clear and soft. Along with Blueberry Antioxidants, Lactic Acid is the main ingredient in our Blueberry Peel.
Don’t :
Avoid products altogether. We recommend the following products during pregnancy or breastfeeding to maintain a fresh, clear complexion:
Using light fruit acids for enzymatic exfoliation, this mask lifts dead skin cells away from the surface, decongesting the skin and helping to eliminate impurities. The skin appears brightened, using natural extracts including Papain from papaya, and Bromelain from Pineapple to desquamate dead skin cells.
A brightening serum containing pigment inhibitors. These are important to correct existing pigment and prevent further pigment developing. Use morning and night throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding to help lighten the appearance of age spots, freckles, hormonal marks and generally uneven skin tone.
Don’t:
Don’t undergo cosmetic injectable treatments during pregnancy or breastfeeding. These are either not safe or not adequately tested for safety.
Do:
Keep your skin hydrated. An alternate method of combating fine lines and wrinkles is hydration! We recommend these products to keep your skin hydrated and supple:
An instant hydration boost, these masks support the skin’s self-moisturizing ability while also reducing redness and puffiness. Use in the comfort of your own home for instant rejuvenation at any time.
A deeply hydrating eye serum with instantly visible results to dehydrated skin, fine lines, crow's feet, loss of firmness, puffiness and/or dark circles.
Do:
Change your skin care plan once your baby is born. IPL Rejuvenation Treatments are safe during breastfeeding and a highly effective treatment to combat stubborn pigment.
This article was provided by The Clinic