Pregnancy can bring about changes in the body, including the skin. Therefore, it's essential to question whether adjustments to the skincare routine might be necessary during pregnancy.
In pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to a variety of skin alterations. More than 90% of pregnant women notice skin changes, many of which are normal [1][2][3]. To maintain comfortable and healthy skin during this period, it's essential to adopt a specialized skincare routine.
Pregnancy can cause increased skin sensitivity and dryness, requiring gentler, hydrating products. Additionally, some skincare ingredients may pose risks to the developing fetus or cause pregnancy complications, so avoiding certain substances is crucial for fetal safety and maternal skin health [5][3].
Key ingredients to avoid during pregnancy include retinoids (such as tretinoin, retinol, adapalene, and Retin-A), which are associated with birth defects and pregnancy complications [1][3][4]. Tetracycline antibiotics, hydroquinone, salicylic acid (BHA), benzoyl peroxide, certain chemical sunscreens, parabens, aluminum chloride hexahydrate, and some essential oils should also be avoided or used cautiously [1][2][3].
Fortunately, there are safe alternatives and recommendations for pregnant women. Using gentle, fragrance-free, soap-free cleansers and moisturizers rich in hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, almond oil, ceramides, shea or cocoa butter, and vitamin E is advised [5][3]. Natural soothing agents such as aloe vera, oatmeal, honey, yogurt, and mashed avocado can also be beneficial in DIY soothing skincare [5][3].
Mineral-based sunscreens are preferred over chemical sunscreens, and keeping routines simple is key: focus on protection, hydration, and mild treatment with doctor-approved ingredients like vitamin C and azelaic acid if tolerated [3][5].
Pregnant women may experience hyperpigmentation, also known as chloasma or the "mask of pregnancy," due to increased levels of oestrogen and progesterone. UV exposure can exacerbate pigmentation during pregnancy, so a high SPF sunscreen is recommended [1][2][3].
Collagen production increases during pregnancy to support the growing uterus, but the rapid stretching of the skin can disrupt collagen and elastin in the middle dermis layer, resulting in stretch marks. While stretch marks during pregnancy are inevitable for many women, maintaining skin hydration and elasticity can potentially reduce their severity [1][2][3].
In summary, specialized pregnancy skincare routines prioritize gentleness, hydration, and safety by avoiding potentially harmful ingredients that could affect fetal development or increase maternal skin sensitivity. Consulting a healthcare provider before using new or medicated products during pregnancy is strongly advised [1][2][5].
- Oman, specifically the news, might feature an article on the good skincare practices recommended during pregnancy to ensure the health of both the mother and the developing fetus.
- For women in Oman who are expecting, understanding the importance of a specialized lifestyle that includes a health-and-wellness-focused skincare routine is vital to maintaining comfortable and healthy skin during pregnancy.
- Pregnant women around the globe, including those in Oman, should be aware of the ingredients to avoid when it comes to their skincare products, such as retinoids, tetracycline antibiotics, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, certain chemical sunscreens, and some essential oils.
- In Oman's womens-health scene, expectant mothers can seek advice on safe alternatives for skincare products rich in hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, almond oil, ceramides, shea or cocoa butter, and vitamin E to help alleviate increased skin sensitivity and dryness.
