Hey there, beautiful mama (or mama-to-be)! Whether you’re rocking that baby bump or cherishing those sweet moments with your little one, one thing’s for sure: your skincare routine deserves a little extra TLC during this special time. But with all the do’s and don’ts swirling around, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry, your skincare bestie, Frownies, is here to break it all down for you!
The Mystery Behind the Pregnancy Glow
Ah, the elusive pregnancy glow — a phenomenon known to leave expecting mamas positively glowing. But what’s the secret behind this ethereal glow? Let’s uncover the science behind the supposed sparkle.
Hormone Harmony
During pregnancy, your body experiences a surge in hormones, including estrogen and progesterone. These hormonal changes can lead to an increase in blood flow to your skin, giving you that coveted rosy complexion and natural radiance.
Sebum Secretion
Thanks to those hormonal fluctuations, your skin may produce more sebum, the natural oil that lubricates and protects your skin. While overproduction of sebum may lead to the occasional breakout, it also can give your skin a healthy, dewy appearance.
Increased Blood Volume
As your body works overtime to support your growing baby, your blood volume increases significantly. This increased circulation can result in a subtle blush and heightened skin vitality, giving you that unmistakable pregnancy glow.
Emotional Well-Being
Let’s not forget the emotional aspect of pregnancy. As you prepare to welcome your little one into the world, some women may experience a sense of joy, excitement, and anticipation. And when you feel good, you look good too -- a brighter smile, an extra sparkle in your eye, and a glow to your complexion.
Self-Care Rituals
Pregnancy may prompt some women to prioritize self-care and indulge in nurturing activities like prenatal massages, soothing baths, and gentle skincare routines. Taking time to pamper yourself not only benefits your skin but also enhances your overall well-being, contributing to that unmistakable pregnancy glow from within.
So, there you have it — It’s the science, emotions, and self-care practices that come together to create the magical phenomenon known as the pregnancy glow.
And if you aren't one of the lucky ones blessed with a maternal glow -- That can be totally normal too! The same elements that are thought to contribute to the glow for one person can wreak havoc on someone else's skin. And don't worry, your skincare bestie's got your back. Next, we’ll outline the elements of a pregnancy and breastfeeding-safe skincare routine.
What you need to know about Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Ingredients
You're probably well aware of the common dietary no-no's during pregnancy -- sushi, lunchmeat, soft cheeses, oh my! But did you know that there are some skincare ingredients that are best to avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding as well?
So, how do you determine which products are safe for your skin and your bun in the oven or your nursing babe? Let's explore the info.
The Lowdown on Safety Testing
Interestingly, skincare products are not required to obtain approval by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) before they are marketed. Instead, the FDA regulates cosmetics under the authority of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). This means that while the FDA does not require pre-approval, it holds manufacturers responsible for ensuring their products are safe for consumer use. Companies should conduct a series of internal safety assessments, including ingredient reviews, stability testing, and microbiological testing, to ensure that their products will not cause harm when used as intended. Cosmetic and skincare companies must also comply with labeling regulations to inform consumers about potential risks and how to use products safely. For more detailed information, you can visit the FDA's guidelines on cosmetic regulation.
Determining the safety of skincare ingredients for pregnant and breast-feeding women becomes increasingly tricky. Because cosmetics do not require FDA approval and it is considered unethical to include pregnant and breastfeeding women in clinical trials, research to support the safety of skincare ingredients is severely lacking. Therefore, healthcare providers, including OB-GYNs and dermatologists, play a crucial role in guiding women through safe choices during this period.
Doctor’s Orders: Navigating Your Skincare Journey with Your Physician
Your OB-GYN or dermatologist isn’t just there to measure your bump or zap those pesky pimples; they’re your partners in pregnancy and in skincare! When it comes to choosing the right products for your skincare routine, don’t hesitate to have a heart-to-heart with your doc.
Bring a list of your favorite skincare products and their ingredients to your next prenatal appointment. Your doctor can help you navigate the sea of ingredients and recommend safe alternatives if needed.
For a more personalized skincare routine, you make seek the guidance of your dermatologist. With the guidelines from your OB-GYN, your dermatologist will be able to tailor their advice to your specific skin concerns and any pregnancy-related skin issues you may be experiencing.
Pregnancy No-No’s: Skincare Ingredients to Avoid
While the best option is to seek medical guidance from your healthcare team, there are some ingredients that you’ll want to steer clear of during pregnancy and breastfeeding. These are some examples of skincare ingredients doctor's commonly warn against during pregnancy and breastfeeding:
Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A)
Retinol has become a powerhouse ingredient ingredient in skincare in recent years, known for improving collagen and elastin production and reducing acne breakouts. However, retinols are considered a big no-no during pregnancy. Oral retinoids have been definitively linked to birth defects. Therefore, most people recommend using extreme caution when using topical retinols. Based on your doctor's recommendation, you may want to opt for gentler alternatives like bakuchiol or vitamin C to keep that skin bright and glowing.
Salicylic Acid
While this beta hydroxy acid (BHA) is a blessing for acne-prone skin, it’s best to avoid it during pregnancy, especially in high concentrations. Opt for products with lower concentrations or switch to alternative ingredients like glycolic acid or lactic acid.
Hydroquinone
Say goodbye to those pesky dark spots with a safer alternative like vitamin C or niacinamide. Hydroquinone is a big red flag during pregnancy due to its potential to cause ochronosis, a rare but serious skin condition.
Remember, when in doubt, always consult with your healthcare provider before adding or subtracting anything from your skincare routine.
Botulinum Toxin
Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin, among others, is another ingredient that should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Botox is widely used for its cosmetic benefits, such as reducing wrinkles and fine lines, but its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well established. The primary concern is that Botox, a neurotoxin, could potentially spread from the injection site and affect the developing fetus or nursing infant. Due to the potential risks and lack of definitive safety data, healthcare professionals typically recommend avoiding Botox treatments during this period. If you are considering Botox, it’s crucial to discuss it with your healthcare provider to understand the potential risks and explore safer alternatives.
Building a Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Routine
1. Gentle Cleanser
Start and end your day with a gentle cleanser to wash away impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils.
2. Pregnancy-Safe Serums
When it comes to serums during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s essential to choose products with ingredients that are both effective and safe for you and your baby. Serums containing vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid provide targeted benefits without posing risks to your pregnancy or breastfeeding journey.
3. Hydrating Moisturizer
Keep your skin soft and supple with a hydrating moisturizer packed with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and ceramides.
4. SPF Protection
Don’t forget to slather on that sunscreen, mama! Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
5. Nourishing Treatments
Treat yourself to a weekly face mask or under eye gels to target specific skin concerns.
*Bonus: Holistic Support
Remember, skincare isn’t just about what you put on your skin—it’s about nourishing your body from the inside out. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, and make time for relaxation, sleep, and self-care.
By adopting a holistic approach to skincare and embracing the changes that come with pregnancy and breastfeeding, you can nurture your skin and embrace the beauty of motherhood with confidence and grace. So go ahead, mama—glow on, you radiant goddess!
Are Frownies Facial Patches Safe during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
Now, let’s shine the spotlight on a skincare hero that’s safe for both mama and baby: Frownies Facial Patches! These little wonders are like a spa day for your fine lines and wrinkles, minus the worry.
What sets Frownies apart? Well, for starters, they contain zero active ingredients --just simply unbleached, kraft paper and vegetable-starch adhesive.
Frownies work by creating a cast-like structure over the area you’re looking to target that helps to retain the underlying facial muscles. The real "magic" of smoothing and softening the appearance of expression lines comes with time and consistency.
The best part? Frownies Facial Patches have been HRIPT-tested to be hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and suitable for sensitive skin.
Many mamas and mamas-to-be proudly endorse Frownies as their pregnancy and breastfeeding safe wrinkle-smoothing solution.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of skincare during pregnancy and breastfeeding, along with the million other things you're thinking about, can feel daunting. But armed with knowledge about safe ingredients, open communication with your healthcare provider, and trusty skincare allies like Frownies, you can keep that pregnancy glow shining bright.
Cheers to happy, healthy skin!
Photos courtesy of our affiliate partners Jesse Truelove @movewithtruelove and Gin Amber @ginamberx.