~ a special guest blog by Jaime Pereira of Glow Jar Beauty~
Pregnancy is an incredibly exciting time in a woman’s life, and the last thing you need to be worrying about is your skincare products. When I was pregnant with my first child, I started really looking into what I was putting in and on my body. Years later, this led me to creating a line of skin and body care products that would protect the integrity of the skin barrier naturally and safely.
As you are getting ready to welcome the new member to your family, you may see some changes in your skin. Some women who struggle with acne can see a positive change, while in others pregnancy can cause a flare up.
Also, the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can cause other skin concerns like Melasma - this condition can also become better or worse during pregnancy. So, you're probably feeling more anxious about how to deal with your skin during this fascinating (and challenging!) period, but we're here to make everything clear!
Which ingredients should I avoid?
If you are using the following products, it is recommended that you discontinue use until you are no longer pregnant or breastfeeding. Of course, please ALWAYS consult your doctor or dermatologist with any skin concerns or questions about which skin care products are safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
For a short time, you should say goodbye to your "anti-aging" friends, especially prescription retinoids.
There is no proven link between hydroquinone and birth defects, yet this ingredient is highly absorbed by the body, and is suggested to stop its use while pregnant and breastfeeding.
Look out for the below formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in various skin, body, nail and haircare products.
1. bronopol5. imidazolidinyl urea
6. quaternium-15
7. 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane
You should avoid products such as strong peel or acne medications.
They contain Avobenzone and Oxybenzone that can potentially disrupt the mother’s hormones.
Skincare Safe Routine
Less is more in this case and to put it simply: avoid all “ANTI AGING” skincare! To hold more moisture in the skin, try the Glow Jar Hydrating Rose Toner.
Cleanse-Tone-Moisturize-
If you wish to add a treatment serum I would look at a multi weight hyaluronic Acid, an antioxidant-rich serum like Vitamin C, or using a low concentration AHA lactic acid twice a week.
Can I get a facial?
Absolutely, but look at getting a relaxation facial versus using stronger treatments that can potentially lead to irritation or inflammation.
Acne Breakouts
If your skin is oily, combination and acne-prone, you want to make sure you are using an oil-free moisturizer, non-stripping cleanser and a non-pore-clogging mineral sunscreen.
What about Melasma (mask of pregnancy)?
Melasma is a condition is which dark spots and patches appear on your face, including the upper lip and cheeks, due to excess production of melanin via high levels of estrogens in pregnancy. The best course of action in decreasing the severity of Melasma while pregnant is to wear an SPF 30+ broad spectrum mineral sunscreen EVERYDAY. Look for ingredients like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and even try a tinted version! Also, avoid exposure to constant heat which can trigger hyperpigmentation.
Stretch Marks
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Try Glow Jar Beauty- Pineapple Body Oil on your growing belly daily.
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Overall, keeping your skincare routine simple will reveal calm happy skin and focus all your energy in every moment (minus morning sickness) of this special time in your life. Treat yourself well and treat your skin simply.
XO and thanks for reading!
Jaime Pereira
Mama, Entrepreneur, Skin Health Coach
www.glowjar.ca
@glowjar_
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