Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that brings significant changes to a woman’s body, including the skin. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to various skin issues, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and sensitivity. It’s essential to adapt your skincare routine during this period to ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby. We spoke to our expert Dr Safia Tanyeem, MBBS, MD DVL, PGDCC, Apollo Cradle and Children’s Hospital, Koramangala, Bengaluru, who shared insights into pregnancy-safe skincare, highlighting what to use and what to avoid. According to the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 90% of pregnant women frequently experience various skin changes, such as physiological (hormonal) alterations, exacerbation of preexisting skin conditions, and specific pregnancy-related dermatoses, all of which require special care and treatment. These conditions are linked to changes in hormones, vascular function, metabolism, and immune responses during pregnancy. Hyaluronic Acid “Hyaluronic acid is an excellent hydrating agent safe for use during pregnancy. It helps to maintain skin moisture, which is particularly beneficial in combating the dryness and dehydration often experienced during this period,” said Dr Tanyeem. Vitamin C Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can effectively address pigmentation issues without posing any risk to the baby. It can brighten the skin and enhance collagen production, contributing to a healthier complexion. Also Read: Pregnancy Glow: Expert Explains If It Is Real Or A Myth? Glycolic Acid In low concentrations, glycolic acid is considered safe for pregnant women. It refines the texture of the skin and reduces the visibility of fine wrinkles by gently exfoliating it. Sunscreen “Do not forget to protect your skin from harmful Ultraviolet (UV) rays, especially during pregnancy. Opt for a physical (mineral) sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these ingredients are safe and effective,” added Tanyeem. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently suggested that titanium dioxide and zinc oxide be classified as ‘generally recognised as safe and effective’ sunscreen ingredients. Also Read: Dry Skin During Pregnancy: Expert Explains the Causes And How To Manage It Ingredients to Avoid Avoid retinol and tretinoin, as they can potentially cause birth defects and other complications. High concentrations of salicylic acid, often found in acne treatments, are not recommended during pregnancy. Consider alternative methods for managing acne. Hydroquinone, used for treating pigmentation issues, is another ingredient to avoid due to its high absorption rate through the skin, which can pose risks during pregnancy. Additionally, some essential oils like rosemary, clary sage, and juniper should be avoided as they can trigger uterine contractions or other adverse effects. Practical Skincare Tips Keep It Simple You should use gentle products and follow a simple skincare regimen. Cleanse, hydrate, and protect your skin daily, avoiding unnecessary or harsh treatments. Patch Test Always perform a patch test before introducing new products into your routine to ensure there are no adverse reactions. Consult a Dermatologist When in doubt, consult a dermatologist. They can provide personalised advice and recommend products that are safe for you and your baby. What You Should Know Dr Tanyeem highlighted, “Remember, your skin may react differently during pregnancy, so be patient and observant. Adjust your routine as needed, stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and get adequate sleep. By being mindful and proactive, you can achieve a beautiful, healthy glow while ensuring the well-being of you and your baby.” Bottomline Dr Tanyeem concluded, “Navigating skincare during pregnancy can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can maintain healthy and glowing skin. Focus on safe, gentle ingredients and avoid potential irritants or harmful substances. Always consult healthcare professionals if you have any concerns.” [Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert before using anything on your skin, especially if you are dealing with any health issues.]Read NextCarrier Oils: Expert Lists How To Choose And Use These Oils For Your Skin Disclaimer All possible measures have been taken to ensure accuracy, reliability, timeliness and authenticity of the information; however Onlymyhealth.com does not take any liability for the same. Using any information provided by the website is solely at the viewers’ discretion. In case of any medical exigencies/ persistent health issues, we advise you to seek a qualified medical practitioner before putting to use any advice/tips given by our team or any third party in form of answers/comments on the above mentioned website.