Summer Bump Beauty: Your guide to beauty treatments during pregnancy

During pregnancy, many women feel the need for more self-care – and this is normal (and necessary) as your body grows. However, not all beauty treatments are safe during pregnancy. Dr Taheera Hassim, a gynaecologist and obstetrician (OBGYN) in Johannesburg, and Dr Cebi Sibisi, a dermatologist in Umhlanga, talk through some of the dos and don’ts. 

Beauty treatments to avoid during pregnancy

Botox and fillers

“Fillers are foreign objects and can cause swelling or immune reactions, which may be harder to manage in pregnancy,” says Dr Sibisi. 

“Botox is a neurotoxin and fillers can cause inflammation,” says Dr Hassim, noting that official guidelines recommend avoiding Botox and fillers until after delivery and while breastfeeding.

Spa facilities

“Facilities like saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs can raise maternal core body temperature (hyperthermia), which increases risk of neural tube defects and dehydration,” explains Dr Hassim. 

These facilities can be especially dangerous in the first trimester, says Dr Sibisi. “Pregnant women are also more prone to low blood pressure, making hot environments risky. Avoid anything that significantly raises your core body temperature,” she adds.

Sunbeds/UV tanning

“These are not safe and are linked to skin cancer risk, overheating and dehydration, which can harm pregnancy,” says Dr Hassim.

Chemical peels

“These are not recommended due to the risk of absorption, skin sensitivity and irritation,” says Dr Hassim. She says that light exfoliation and gentle facials are fine, but aggressive treatments should wait until postpartum.

Dr Sibisi agrees, saying, “Strong chemical peels (like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or TCA peels) are not recommended, especially in high concentrations. Some milder peels may be used under dermatologist supervision, but skin is often more reactive and sensitive during pregnancy.” 

Laser hair removal

While there are no strong safety studies and laser’s effects on the foetus are unknown, Dr Hassim says it’s best to avoid this when you’re pregnant. “Hormonal changes can also make treatment less effective,” she adds. 

Keratin hair treatments

“These are not recommended. Many contain formaldehyde or strong chemicals, which release fumes that are unsafe for mom and baby,” says Dr Hassim. 

Dr Sibisi adds that even ‘formaldehyde-free’ hair treatments may release related chemicals when heat is applied, so it is best to check with your healthcare professional before booking a treatment. 

Teeth whitening 

“It’s best to avoid teeth whitening as peroxide-based whitening gels have uncertain safety,” says Dr Hassim. She says that gums are more sensitive during pregnancy, and this can increase the risk of irritation. “Dental cleaning is safe (and encouraged). A scale and polish at the dentist is safe.”

Beauty treatments to approach with caution during pregnancy

Waxes

While waxing in safe during pregnancy, know that your skin may be more sensitive due to hormonal changes and this may cause you to feel more pain. You might also notice redness or skin irritation following a wax. “Choose a hygienic salon and avoid very hot wax,” advises Dr Hassim.

Microdermabrasion

“Microdermabrasion is a gentle exfoliating treatment and is generally considered safe, but pregnant skin can be more prone to irritation, redness or sensitivity, so treatment may be okay if done by a professional and with medical clearance,” says Dr Sibisi. 

Pregnancy massage 

Provided it is a pregnancy/prenatal massage done by a trained therapist, body massages are safe from the second trimester (avoid them during the first trimester). Dr Hassim says massages can help ease back pain and swelling, and promote relaxation during pregnancy. “Avoid deep pressure on the abdomen or certain acupressure points, and avoid very abrasive exfoliants or harsh essential oils,” she says. 

Tanning 

Dr Hassim explains that self-tan creams and lotions are usually considered safe if applied topically, as active ingredients (like DHA) don’t penetrate beyond the outer skin layer. “Avoid spray tans as these pose an inhalation risk,” she adds.

Hair dye 

This is safe after the second trimester, with precautions. “Research suggests minimal risk, but hormones can affect how hair takes colour. Use ammonia-free, semi-permanent or natural dyes, such as henna or vegetable-based dye,” says Dr Hassim. If you’re having your hair done at a hair salon, ensure the space is well-ventilated.

Beauty treatments that are safe in pregnancy

Before you move self-care to the bottom of your priority list, know that there are many treatments that are safe – and offer benefits – for you and your growing baby.

“During pregnancy, your skin and body go through big changes. When it comes to beauty treatments, if in doubt, leave it out – or check with your doctor or dermatologist. Your baby’s health is always the priority, and most beauty treatments can wait until after delivery,” says Dr Sibisi. 

Here are some pregnancy-safe treatments to try:

• Gentle, non-chemical facials are safe and work well to cleanse and hydrate your skin. “Avoid harsh chemicals, strong acids or treatments that cause intense skin reactions,” says Dr Hassim. 

• Eyebrow threading or tweezing is % safe because no chemicals are used, says Dr Hassim, as are haircuts and blow-dries – there are no risk to the mother or the baby.

• Keep your monthly manicure and pedicure date on your calendar because these are a great way to kick back during pregnancy. Dr Hassim says to confirm that the tools used by your manicurist are sterilised and that the salon has good ventilation (to avoid inhaling fumes). Whether you’re headed to a salon or are doing your own nails, opt for non-toxic or “pregnancy-safe” nail polishes.

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