Skincare ingredients to avoid while pregnant

During pregnancy it’s normal to become cautious about the foods you consume, what (and how much) you drink, and how you exercise. But did you know that the skincare products you apply to your skin could also pose a health risk?

“This is a tricky subject to write about as very few clinical trials are conducted for skincare ingredients while a woman is pregnant. Therefore, we have to rely on anecdotal evidence on the use of certain skincare ingredients in pregnancy,” explains Dr Nomphelo Gantsho, a dermatologist based in Cape Town, 

Many people find that their skin is more sensitive during pregnancy. Dr Gantsho explains that pregnancy can cause your skin to thin, making you more susceptible to irritation. “During pregnancy, one needs to adjust their normal skincare regimens to omit certain ingredients, and certain treatments may not be suitable,” she says.

A note about unsuitable skincare treatments

To avoid any problems during your pregnancy, it’s always best to talk to your gynaecologist or dermatologist before booking any advanced skincare treatments. 

“Some facial treatments are invasive and require a healing process, so avoid treatments that cause breaking of the skin as these carry a small risk of infection. Infections while you are pregnant can lead to other complications that can put you or your baby at risk,” says Dr Gantsho.

Of treatments that should rather be avoided until after you give birth, Dr Gantsho says: “Chemical peels that use salicylic acid, trichloracetic acid or Jessner's solution (a mixture of lactic and salicylic acid) penetrate deeply. Deeper skin penetration can lead to more complications as they have risks of scarring and discolouring to the skin.”

Skincare treatments that are safe during pregnancy

“The fewer chemicals and invasive procedures you are exposed to, the safer you will be during pregnancy,” says Dr Gantsho.

Because they have low penetration levels, Dr Gantsho says that peels that use glycolic or lactic acid are safe during pregnancy. She adds that lactic acid chemical peels are frequently used to treat gestational acne. “An excellent treatment for acne in pregnant and lactating women is the Acleara/Theraclear Acne Clearing System,” she adds. 

Skincare ingredients that are not to be used during pregnancy 

When picking out skincare products, there are some ingredients you should steer clear of. “Topical hydroquinone and topical retinoids in the form of tretinoin, adapalene, isotretinoin and retinol should not be used during pregnancy because they are teratogenic [may cause foetal abnormalities when exposed during pregnancy],” says Dr Gantsho. 

“Avoid harsh toners and scrubs as any irritation of the skin is more likely to lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation,” she adds. 

Trying to read and understand product labels can be overwhelming, so if you’re ever unsure if a product is safe for you and your unborn baby, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare professional before you buy or apply. 

These five ingredients are considered safe in pregnancy

Dr Gantsho says that the following ingredients are soothing to the skin and are generally considered safe during pregnancy: 

1.    Hyaluronic acid

Everyone’s favourite hydrator is also great for dry skin experienced during pregnancy.

2.    Salicylic acid 

Used in low concentrations (between 1% – 2%), facial cleansers containing salicylic acid are considered safe to use during pregnancy. 

3.    Salicylic acid (2%)

In this dosage, salicylic acid can be used as a spot treatment or to treat uneven skin tone.

4.    Azelaic acid

If your skin is prone to breakouts during pregnancy, this is a useful ingredient as it helps with blackheads, has anti-inflammatory properties, and also helps to lighten pigmentation. Dr Gantsho doesn’t recommend using topical skincare products that contain over 20% azelaic acid.

5.    Sunscreen

During pregnancy, skin is very sensitive to the sun. Dr Gantsho recommends using sunscreen with mineral filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, instead of chemical sunscreens.

Products we like:
•    Sorbet Plump Up Hyaluronic Acid Clay Mask
•    Standard Beauty Hyaluronic Acid Serum
•    E45 Hydrating Face Serum 
•    Skin Republic GloPotion Salicylic Acid Bamboo Sheet Mask
•    Revolution Skincare 2% Salicylic Acid Targeted Anti-Blemish Serum

IMAGE CREDIT: 123rf.com