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There is nothing more beautiful than pregnancy and the gift of life but everybody knows that pregnancy comes with certain drawbacks and lifestyle restrictions; no social drinking, no caffeine, and of course there’s the attractive elasticated pants to consider. It’s a time for accepting changes, for making your health and the health of your baby a priority. This can often mean making compromises you may not be too happy with, and unfortunately, skincare is one of them.Studies have shown that particular chemicals used in certain products can actually filter their way through the placenta and affect a developing fetus; because of this, it is imperative that an expectant mother be aware what ingredients are used in her skincare. An ideal beauty regime is entirely achievable during pregnancy, you just have to be willing to make concessions.
Main ingredients To Avoid
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
This ingredients is usually found in products used to treat acne, anti ageing products and exfoliators. High doses have been proven to be harmful to unborn babies.
Vitamin A & Retinoids
These are often found in anti ageing products that reduce wrinkles and improve skin tone. Studies have shown that high doses can prove harmful to unborn babies.
Accutane
Another ingredient found in acne treatment products, this one is an absolute no no. Links have been made between this product and fetal defects and in some cases, fetal loss.
Phathalates
This ingredient can appear as "DPM”, or "fragrance” and is present in products such as nail polish, deodorant, perfumes, cream hair removers and hairspray. There have been recorded instances of phathalates in cosmetic products being linked to changes in the genitals of male babies.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are a risky and controversial matter; although opinions are largely divided concerning their effect, it is best to be cautious and avoid them whilst pregnant. The thing is, the compounds that form certain oils, such as fennel and aniseed, have a hormone like effect and can therefore affect the growth of a foetus. Certain other essential oils can be used to promote and regulate menstrual flow, and therefore should certainly be given a miss also.
Now, you’re probably thinking, "I don’t have time to sit there and read every ingredient” and sure, while important, it can be a bother. However, luckily for you, The Facial Company puts a pregnancy alert icon on the product pages of any item that contains ingredients unsuitable for pregnancy. Convenient, yes?
Now you’re more clued in on what you can’t do, here are some things you can do!
Do…keep up your beauty regime
It’s possible you may have to change a few of the products based on ingredients, and sure you’ve got that lovely glow going on, but it’s very important that you don’t slack off on your skincare regime while expecting. Pregnancy is a tumultuous time and you’ll likely see changes in your hair and complexion due to hormonal shifting. Now is the time to pay special care and attention to yourself.
Do...look to the future
That baby bump looks just magical doesn’t it? It’s a symbol of womanhood and pure femininity. Now skip forward a few months…
Pregnancy puts a lot of stress on your body, you know this. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel! There are many stretch mark reducing products out there, but an absolute winner is Simplicite’s Pregnancy Massage Oil. This wonder product helps restore elasticity to areas at risk of stretching during pregnancy, as well as improving the appearance of existing stretch marks. Wait now, there’s more. The Pregnancy Massage Oil also contains plant extracts that are traditionally used to treat fluid retention, indigestion and morning sickness. Really, you can’t go wrong!
Do…do something for yourself
One of the most important things you need to do when expecting is relax. Stress and anxiety are not your friends at the best of times; however when there’s a baby in the picture, it’s absolutely necessary to keep yourself chilled out. Why not do something beneficial as well as tranquil? Have a massage, or indulge in a relaxing facial treatment. Something many pregnant women choose to do is have a pedicure in the weeks preceding the birth; it’s fun, it’s a great way to de-stress, and you’ll have the prettiest toes in the ward.
Bottom line, after your baby is born it’s likely you’ll have very little "me” time; make the most of it now, while you can!
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14 Aug, 2011 - 7:16 pm
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