Bump beauty: 5 skincare ingredients your pregnant body will love

Pregnancy can be one of the most special times of your life, but the changes happening in your body and skin can feel overwhelming. From melasma and acne, to stretch marks and sudden sensitivities, it’s normal to find yourself rethinking your skincare routine.

But before you throw out your entire beauty cabinet and start fresh, there is some good news. Many skincare ingredients are not only safe for you and your baby, but they also work wonders on hormonally challenged skin. Below are five ingredients your skin will love during pregnancy, plus a bonus tip to help get your glow on safely.

Common skin changes during pregnancy

With pregnancy comes many changes in your body, and your skin is no exception. Most people are probably familiar with pregnancy-related stretch marks, but other skin-related changes are also common during pregnancy, such as: 

•  Acne breakouts
•  Melasma or hyperpigmentation
•  Dryness or increased oiliness
•  Stretch marks
•  Spider veins and varicose veins
•  Skin sensitivity
•  Nail changes

The hydration hero: hyaluronic acid:

Pregnancy can throw off your skin’s moisture levels. Whether you’re drier than usual or dealing with oilier skin that still feels tight, hyaluronic acid is a lifesaver. A hydration powerhouse, it holds up to 1 000 times its weight in water, making it ideal for dry or dehydrated pregnancy skin. It plumps, smooths, and helps maintain moisture balance without clogging pores or feeling greasy. It’s perfect for sensitive skin types and works well with other skin ingredients, making it a must-have in your serum or moisturiser during all stages of pregnancy.

Brighten and boost: vitamin C 

Vitamin C is a glow-giving antioxidant that safely tackles dullness, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone. It boosts collagen production, reduces the appearance of dark spots, and protects skin from environmental stressors. During pregnancy, it’s a great alternative to harsh brighteners like hydroquinone. Look for stabilised forms of vitamin C to ensure optimal absorption and minimal irritation. 

Calm and correct: niacinamide

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a multitasking ingredient perfect for pregnancy skin. It soothes inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, regulates oil production, and reduces redness. It’s also great for managing pregnancy-related acne without the risks associated with stronger treatments like retinoids. Niacinamide can also help fade hyperpigmentation and minimise pore appearance, while being gentle and non-irritating. Use it daily for clearer, more balanced skin.

Safe exfoliation: glycolic acid

Missing your retinol glow? Try glycolic acid instead. This alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) gently exfoliates to improve skin tone and texture, revealing a brighter complexion. Just be sure to use products with less than 10% glycolic acid; and always patch test first – pregnancy can make skin more reactive.

Soothe and heal: vitamin E

Known for its antioxidant and skin-repairing powers, vitamin E can be a skin-saver during pregnancy. It helps support elasticity, retain moisture, and soothe irritation. It’s also widely used to help minimise the appearance of stretch marks and scars.

Bonus ingredient: zinc oxide (mineral sunscreen)

Sun protection is extra important during pregnancy, especially if you’re dealing with melasma or increased sensitivity. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide are a top pregnancy pick as they offer broad-spectrum protection without harsh chemical filters.

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• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged Serum
• Nivea Clear Up Serum
• Sorbet Brightening Vitamin C Serum
• The Body Shop Vitamin E Intense Moisture Cream
• Sorbet Glowing Acid Peel Mask Aha Orange
• REN Clean Skincare SPF30 Clean Screen Mineral Sunscreen

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