Bump Beauty: 5 serums that work well in pregnancy

As your pregnancy progresses, you may start noticing changes in the usual appearance of your skin. Women who haven’t experienced breakouts before may start struggling with acne, and many women start noticing dark patches or uneven skin tone. 

As frustrating as it may be to spot these skincare concerns (especially on top of all the other changes your body is experiencing as your belly grows), know that it is completely normal as your hormones start shifting – and that these skin concerns can be treated and managed with the right help. 

What are the most common skincare concerns experienced by pregnant women? Dr Felicity Mathole, a dermatologist based in Polokwane, says these conditions may arise:

• Acne: When the pores of your skin become clogged it leads to the formation of a buildup of pimples, including blackheads and whiteheads.
• Hyperpigmentation: This is when dark spots or patches form on the skin and is caused by an excess production of melanin (as pregnancy hormones come into play, affecting melanin production), which is the pigment that gives colour to the skin. 
• Skin-tags: These small, hanging skin growths often appear in areas of the body where the skin folds, like the neck or eyelids.
• Striae: Also known as stretch marks, these are completely normal as your body expands and your skin stretches during pregnancy. 

Dr Mathole also says some pre-existing conditions, such as eczema and lupus, may worsen during pregnancy. If you are struggling to manage any skincare changes, chat to your healthcare professional who will guide you in the direction of pregnancy-safe treatments. 

What about serums for your skin?

A serum is an essential part of any skincare routine – they offer targeted treatment to deliver the results you’re most desperate for, whether that’s a brighter skin tone or hydration. They also come in a variety of formulations – from gel to oil – all of them lightweight enough for layering your products. 

Dr Mathole suggests looking out for these ingredients when you’re shopping for a serum to manage your pregnancy skincare concerns:

• Vitamin C: It has antioxidant properties and can boost your skin’s radiance.
• Niacinamide: It offers anti-hyperpigmentation and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Thiamidol: It helps to treat hyperpigmentation for a more even skin tone. 
• Hyaluronic acid: It adds hydration to the skin and has anti-ageing benefits.

Shop these five serums now:

With vitamin C: The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow Serum

This serum not only fights the visible signs of uneven skin tone, it improves the texture, too. It also contains bakuchiol, which is naturally derived and has effects like retinol’s (but is safe to use during pregnancy). 

With niacinamide: Neutrogena Hydro Boost 10% Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Serum

It’s lightweight and effective – plus, the niacinamide in this serum is combined with hydrating hyaluronic acid for double the benefits. 

With thiamidol: Eucerin Even Pigment Perfector Dual Serum

Get to the root cause of dark spots with this formula, while hydrating your skin with the added benefit of hyaluronic acid. It absorbs quickly, so it’ll take no extra time when you add it to your morning and nighttime skincare routines. 

With hyaluronic acid: Sorbet Hydrating Serum

Gently tap a few drops of this serum onto your face and, with regular use, you’ll notice a difference in how your skin feels, thanks to the way it adds (and retains) moisture. 

With vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide: Himalaya Brightening Vitamin C Orange Serum

With a formula with a heavy emphasis on natural origin, this serum offers many benefits including hydration and skin brightening, all while creating a stronger barrier for the skin. 

What skincare ingredients should you avoid during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it’s natural to start questioning what goes into your body and to cut out any food, drink or medication that may be harmful to your growing baby. Did you know that you also need to be cautious of what you put onto your body? 

Dr Mathole says to avoid these:

• Retinol/ retinoids
• Benzoyl peroxide 
• Salicylic acid 
• Urea creams 
• Hydroquinone

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