THE JOURNEY OF PREGNANCY: EFFECTS ON YOUR SKIN
Published May 14, 2023
WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR SKIN WHEN YOU’RE PREGNANT?
Skin changes during pregnancy are caused by hormonal fluctuations. Estrogen and progesterone changes are accelerated during this period, leading to a wide array of skin changes. These structural differences can cause unexpected variations, leaving your skin dry or in worse cases with acne issues. Other skin changes familiar to pregnant women include stretch marks, linea nigra, varicose veins, and spider veins.
Another issue pregnant women encounter is the appearance of hyperpigmentation or melasma. In general terms, it appears as brown or gray-brown patches on the skin. This is due to a hormonal imbalance that triggers the growth of melanocytes, the cells that make up the pigment of your skin. To help alleviate this pigmentation, apply a moisturizer containing vitamins C or E, which can aid in reducing the effects and improve your skin texture.
SKINCARE INGREDIENTS TO AVOID WHEN PREGNANT
If you are pregnant, it's essential to adjust your skincare routine to accommodate these changes. Generally, skincare ingredients like hydroquinone, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid are not recommended during pregnancy. These ingredients can get absorbed into the bloodstream, and may be harmful to a developing baby.
Lastly, avoid the use of self-tanners or spray tanning while pregnant. These solutions contain chemicals that have not been tested to be sure they’re safe to apply while pregnant. The active ingredient in self-tanners, dihydroxyacetone, can also be absorbed into your bloodstream via your skin surface.
SKINCARE DURING PREGNANCY
Try glycolic or lactic acid-based products to minimize acne flare-ups without harming your unborn child. Concentrate on moisturizing ingredients and gentle cleansers that don't strip your skin.
Be extra attentive to sun exposure during this time. Prolonged exposure to UV rays could worsen hyperpigmentation or melasma, resulting in more defined patches that are tough to get rid of. It's best to use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily.
USING FILORGA PRODUCTS DURING PREGNANCY
When FILORGA develops products, we verify whether the ingredients chosen for the formula are safe during pregnancy. If there are any issues with ingredients, the statement “do not use during pregnancy” is written on the product.
Each of our products undergoes thorough tests to ensure tolerance and safety for consumers. However, everyone is different when it comes to using cosmetic products. We recommend talking to your OBGYN/Physician before starting any new products while pregnant or breastfeeding to get their recommendation of which ingredients and products you should and shouldn’t use.
IN SUMMARY
Pregnancy is indeed a significant moment in women's lives, but it doesn't mean you can't glow and feel incredible as a mother-to-be. While your skin may experience undesired changes, there are skincare solutions that can help improve your confidence and make you feel great about yourself. Proper skincare may even lead to healthier skin after childbirth. Don't forget that you can always consult your doctor or dermatologist if you have particular concerns about skincare products or any other aspect of pregnancy. Enjoy every moment of this magnificent journey!