|
Acne
Many women find that their faces break out more after
they become pregnant. Try to keep your face as clean
as possible using a mild cleanser. If you need to visit
a dermatologist, make sure you inform her that you are
pregnant. Mild oatmeal-based facial scrubs are your
best bet for unplugging oily pores. You'll want to steer
clear of abrasive scrubs or exfoliants because your
skin is extra sensitive during pregnancy.
Increased pigmentation
Expect the areola (the flat area around your nipple)
and the nipple of your breasts to darken during pregnancy
and to remain a little darker even after you give birth.
Your freckles and moles may also become darker and some
new moles may appear while you're pregnant.
Stretch marks
According to the studies, more than 90 percent of women
develop stretch marks during the sixth and seventh months
of pregnancy. Stretch marks are caused by the stretching
of the underlying layers of skin during pregnancy and
typically show up as pink or purplish streaks on the
abdomen and -- in some cases -- the breasts and the
thighs. Fortunately, they tend to fade to silver over
time, something that makes them a whole lot less noticeable.
Linea nigra
You may find that you have developed a faint brown line
from your navel to your pubic bone. This is also due
to hormonal changes and will "crumble off"
as the top layers of skin cells are shed a few weeks
after delivery
2. Ingredients in skin care products to be avoided
during Pregnancy
Pregnancy is also a time when special
care should be taken to keep the skin healthy and glowing.
While most commonly used products are completely safe,
there is handful of ingredients considered harmful to
a growing baby.The more powerful and targeted products
get, the more we need to be careful about what we have
in our skin-care regimens during pregnancy and nursing.
Retinoids
These powerful substances, found in some anti aging
moisturizers, are lauded for helping reduce wrinkles
and improve skin tone. Retinoids are a type of vitamin
A that speeds up cell division (quickening your skin's
renewal) and prevent skin collagen from breaking down.
There is no strong evidence to show that retinoids ingredients
are harmful when used on the skin. It is advised by
doctors to avoid during pregnancy and nursing.
What to check on the label:
- Differin (adapelene)
- Retin-A, Renova (tretinoin)
- Retinoic acid
- Retinol
- Retinyl linoleate
- Retinyl palmitate
- Tazorac and avage (Tazarotene)
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is another no-no for pregnant women.This
mild acid is used to treat certain skin disorders, including
acne, and you can find it in a number of skin products,
such as cleansers and toners. BHA, or beta hydroxy acid,
is a form of salicylic acid and is used in some topical
exfoliants to reverse signs of aging.
Do not confuse yourself with Alpha
hydroxy acids, sometimes listed as AHAs, glycolic acid,
or lactic acid, they are safe.
What to check on the label:
- Salicylic acid
- Beta hydroxy acid
- BHA
Don’t panic.
If you realize you have used a product that contains
one of the potentially harmful ingredients noted above.
Simply stop using the product now and pick one with
known-to-be-safe ingredients.
3. Pregnancy Skin Care Routine:
Pregnancy skin care for pregnant
women is really essential; skin care and pregnancy go
hand-in-hand. To keep their pregnant bodies in top condition,
mums-to-be need to adjust their daily skincare and pampering
routine to ensure that they feel and look great, right
up to their due date and beyond. The first thing to
do when you find you are pregnant is to check the products
that you would normally use. You may find that some
products are unsuitable for pregnant skin. If you are
at all concerned then switch to products which state
they are suitable for use during pregnancy. In order
to maintain a pregnancy skin care routine, you'll need
to focus on the basics of skin care. Follow these easy
pregnancy skin care tips.
Cleansing
Soap removes natural oils from the skin, so try using
a moisturising body wash instead. This will maintain
the essential oils in pregnant skin and promote a healthy
glow
Moisturizing and Sun Protection
The most important addition you should make to your
skin-care routine during pregnancy (and beyond) is a
moisturizer with at least SPF 15, and with broad spectrum
protection (that works against both UVA and UVB rays).
Acne and Oil
If your skin is oily and/or acne prone, you'll probably
experience your worst breakouts during the first trimester
of pregnancy. The safest way to treat these breakouts
is with a product that contains glycolic acid, alpha
hydroxy acid, topical erythromycin (prescription only),
or witch hazel.Generally, most dermatologists don't
recommend the use of topical retinoids (such as Retin-A
or Differin) or salicylic acid — check product
labels for ingredients
Quick and Easy Makeup
When it comes to wearing makeup during pregnancy, stick
with the less-is-more philosophy. It's faster and easier.
All you really need to put your best face forward are
few multipurpose products.A foundation stick that doubles
as concealer is great for covering under-eye circles
and blemishes, and for evening out skin tone. Chubby
pencils are foolproof for smudging on eyes, lips, and
cheeks and they won't take up much room in your bag.
If you're the kind of person who won't leave the house
without lipstick, make sure it's moisturizing and contains
sun protection. For a polished look, finish up with
a coat of washable, waterproof mascara and you're ready
for the day.
|