Pregnancy is an amazing time. Unfortunately it’s also a time when you have to say bye to things you love… like sushi, wine, and certain skincare products. When I found out I was pregnant I immediately started researching pregnancy safe skincare and which products I should and shouldn’t use. That being said, during my pregnancy I erred on the side of caution. I thought it was just best to avoid anything I found questionable. Better safe than sorry was my motto.
Ingredients I avoided while pregnant
I avoided chemical sunscreens, retinoids, hydroxy acids, and sunless tanners. (Although I must admit at the very end of my pregnancy I used a self tanner a couple times. The jury is still out on whether they are safe or not — as I mentioned, I tried to be as cautious as possible.)
For reference, I used 15minutebeauty.com as a guide. It was created by a doctor who obsessively researches every brand and product under the sun. It’s how I discovered that my beloved It Cosmetics CC Cream has retinol in it!! I’m literally counting down the days till I’ve finished breastfeeding so I can use it again.
Pregnancy skincare
Here are the products I used all throughout my pregnancy…
Moisturizers — Tula 24-7 moisture and Augustinus Bader The Cream. Most anti-aging creams have ingredients that you’ll want to avoid during pregnancy. (Especially retinol!) Both of these are gentle but effective.
Eye cream — I love Colleen Rothschild’s Complete Eye Cream. It fights wrinkles, fine lines, under-eye circles, puffiness and loss of elasticity without harmful ingredients. I use it pregnant or not! (Click here to see more of my favorite Colleen Rothschild products.)
Serum — SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is a must-have vitamin C serum that combats photodamage and the appearance of lines and wrinkles, while brightening skin’s complexion.
SPF — Will I was pregnant I developed the worst melasma! I wish I would have used SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50 from the beginning of my pregnancy instead of just at the end. (When looking for an SPF go for one that’s a mineral or physical sunscreen. They are a good choices for pregnancy because they sit on the skin instead of being absorbed by it.)
Preventing stretch marks
Even though stretch marks are usually genetic, if get them you can moisturize to try to minimize their appearance. I loved all the Mama Mio products especially the Tummy Rub Oil and the Tummy Rub Butter. (Or shop the set here!)
Did you change your skincare during your pregnancy? I would love to know!
xo