Pregnancy is a transformative journey, bringing changes to both your body and skin. Hormonal changes can trigger acne around the chin and jaw, melasma, and increased dryness, making fine lines more noticeable. Navigating these changes while ensuring the safety of your baby can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to your skincare routine. You might wonder:
- “is what I’m using safe for my baby?”
Many over-the-counter products contain active ingredients that may pose risks during this time. When applied onto the skin, these ingredients can be absorbed into your bloodstream and passed through the placenta. We asked leading dermatologist, Professor Greg Goodman AM, to explain which skincare ingredients are safe and which to avoid during pregnancy. These are the 3 ingredients that should be avoided for a pregnancy-safe skincare routine:
1) Retinoids (Vitamin A)- for anti-ageing
While retinol is great for your skin, it’s not worth the risk during pregnancy. Retinol and other Vitamin A derivatives are powerful ingredients for tackling fine lines and wrinkles, helping to speed up skin renewal and prevent collagen breakdown. But if you’re expecting, it’s important to avoid these during pregnancy as they can pose serious risks to your baby, including birth defects and developmental issues.
〜 Safer alternatives to help improve skin elasticity and texture during pregnancy include bakuchiol, hyaluronic acid, and some peptides. 〜
2) Salicylic Acid- for acne
Salicylic acid is a popular ingredient known for its ability to exfoliate skin, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation, making it effective for treating acne and improving skin clarity. It should be avoided during pregnancy as high concentrations can pose risks such as developmental complications and potential harm to the baby.
〜 Safer alternatives for managing acne and improving skin clarity during pregnancy include azelaic acid, glycolic acid, and niacinamide. 〜
3) Lightening Agents- for pigmentation
Prescription lightening agents are used to treat pigmentation, melasma, and dark spots by reducing melanin production. As a precaution, it's recommended to avoid using these products during pregnancy and instead opt for safer alternatives.
〜 Safer alternatives for treating pigmentation and brightening skin during pregnancy include azelaic acid, vitamin C, and licorice root extract.〜
If you're unsure about which skincare products or treatments are right for you, our expert dermatologists are here to help. Visit us at the Dermatology Institute of Victoria for personalised guidance on creating a pregnancy-safe skincare routine. Book your consultation today.