Safe Skincare During Pregnancy

At Southeast Sculpting & Rejuvenation, we have two Board Certified OBGYNs. They are a great resource for recommendations on what is best for our expecting mamas when it comes to skincare.

In this post we will tackle two common questions: Which skincare products/services should I avoid while pregnant? Which products are safe to use to achieve that “pregnancy glow”? I will also share some of my personal favorite products to use while pregnant.

Which skincare ingredients do you need to avoid?

• Prescription Retinoids  (example: Retin-A, Accutane, Differin, Tazorac)
• Retinol
• Beta Hydroxy Acid/Salicylic Acid
• Benzoyl Peroxide
• Hydroquinone
• Topical Erythromycin- A topical antibiotic that is used to treat acne
• Botox and Fillers

Note: You will find a variation of recommendations out there. Some of which may say that ingredients listed above may be ok in small amounts. However, there is such little research on the use of these with pregnant women. It’s always important to get the advice of your obstetrician or dermatologist before starting these treatments.

Which skincare ingredients are safe during pregnancy?

• Vitamin C
• Over the counter topical sulfur, zinc, niacinamide treatments (Niacinamide -Vitamin B3 is used to reduce appearance of blemishes and congestion)
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Polyhydroxy Acids- gentle exfoliators with antioxidant benefits
• SPF- mineral sunscreen (vs chemical sunscreen) that contains zinc or titanium dioxide. SPF is very important due to pigmentation issues while pregnant.

My skincare product favorites for pregnancy

All of these products listed are my personal favorites to use during pregnancy. They are all available online and most are available in office or for pick-up!

Favorite Cleanser ZO Skin Health Gentle Cleanser

This non-irritating cleanser is great for makeup removal, deep cleansing and promotes hydration. Contains amino acids to revive the skin barrier and cleanse without drying.

Favorite Toner ZO Skin Health Calming Toner

This fantastic toner includes witch hazel to visibly reduces pore size. It also includes a blend of conditioners, moisturizers and hydrators helps soothe treated skin. Toner is a must in every skincare routine and you will love this one.

Anti-aging product Revision C+ Correcting Complex 30%

This powerhouse helps to support the skin’s natural production of Vitamins C and E to help even and brighten skin tone. You will love Revision Skincare's exclusive blend of powerful antioxidants designed to combat free radicals and prebiotic technology that helps support your skin's microbiome.

Brightening product ZO Skin Health Brightalive Skin Brightener

This ZO Skin Health serum contains a unique blend of skin brighteners that help block the appearance of pigmentation. It also includes enzymatic exfoliation to remove dead skin calls and hydrators to restore skin moisture barrier and soothe irritated skin.

Eye Cream Alastin Skincare Restorative Eye Treatment 

One of my all-time favorite eye treatments. This winning product can be used daily to reduce the appearance of puffiness, dark circles and fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. Alastin's patented tri-hex technology works with the skin to clear out damaged elastin and collagen while supporting the production of new, healthy elastin and collagen.

Sun Protection Alastin Hydratint Skinscreen

HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum SPF 36 can be used daily to protect skin from harmful rays and sheild against environmental pollution. This all mineral sunscreen is also very lightweight and tinted to give your skin a glow.  Other benefits: reef-friendly, fragrance-free and oil-free formulation.

Acne Treatment ZO Skin Health Sulfur Masque

An acne treatment without salicylic acid can be hard to find and this one works great! You will love using this 10% sulfur masque weekly to absorb surface oils and prevent clogged pores. It can also be used as a spot treatment to reduces sebum and calm irritation.

Our favorite treatments for pregnancy

Hydrafacial

HydraFacial is a relaxing and painless treatment to rejuvenate and protect the health of your skin. It provides instant results that leave you looking radiant (perfect for before a baby shower or maternity photo session). Your treatment will need to be customized for pregnancy to avoid glycolic and salicylic acid. With the special customization you will still enjoy the hydration and glow the makes the hydrafacial treatment so beloved.

Dermaplaning 

Feeling like you need a little extra exfoliation? Dermaplaning is a safe and effective treatment to remove facial hairs that trap oils and dirt, while promoting better product absorption. It also helps your skin look and feel smoother.

You can enjoy both treatments monthly during your pregnancy.

Here are two ways you can get started on your pregnancy glow today:

Schedule a skin consultation or treatment today! 

Shop our online store for products for in-office or curbside pick up

Author

Melissa Smith, RN Melissa was first an esthetician before she returned to school and earned her degree as a Registered Nurse. She has extensive experience in multiple areas including cardiac and surgical nursing. She too is a graduate of CoolSculpting University and has certifications in HydraFacials, Skin Pen microneedling, and ZO Skin Health procedures and products. Melissa’s enthusiasm for her work is apparent. She loves her in-office patients and directing our outreach through seminars and Social Media campaigns. Melissa is married and the mother of one son.