You’re expecting….now what to expect from your skin

I was thrilled to see the two lines confirming I was indeed pregnant. After announcing the news to my husband, I suddenly thought of my beloved products that I would have to push aside for the next 9 plus months. As much as I would miss certain ingredients, I knew avoiding them was in the best interest of the baby, so what CAN an expectant mother use?
Pregnancy increases blood production and circulation giving us that gorgeous “glow,” but it can also produce excess oil production causing not-so-lovely breakouts. Instead of using products with Benzoyl Peroxide, which is pregnancy category C and a no-no during pregnancy, I recommend alpha hydroxyl acids, fruit enzymes, and scrubs to remove dead skin cells that can be the reason for congestion and lack luster complexion. Another major ingredient on the do-not-use list is Retin-A (retinoids).

Here I am with a coworker at our staff baby shower comparing bellies!
Although retinols and retinoids are fantastic anti-aging agents, there are studies indicating they are the potential cause of a variety of birth defects. Since you are limited on the number of daily treatments you can use, now is a GREAT time to pamper yourself and get a facial. Your aesthetician can customize a facial that is safe for pregnancy. Facials offer the pregnant mom relaxation and pampering while keeping the pores cleansed and the skin soft. The skin can be more sensitive to touch and heat so informing the technician of your pregnancy will also ensure she avoids machines, techniques, and certain essential oils.
Elevated hormone levels may trigger excessive production of pigment a.k.a. pregnancy mask or melasma. These spots are usually found on the upper lip, forehead, or cheeks. I recommend at least an SPF 30 and, if you plan to spend time outside, make sure to reapply every two hours or use a higher number. Wearing a hat is a great way to add extra protection and reduce chances of these dark spots showing up. Once you have delivered your baby and are not breastfeeding, your aesthetician can recommend products and treatments to correct any melasma that appeared as a result of your pregnancy.

As is true for all stages of life, sunscreen is your most important beauty product. Here I am getting exercise and enjoying the sun, but always with an SPF of at least 30.
As I entered my second trimester, and the belly began to really expand, so did the debut of stretch marks. I feared these as most women do. I controlled my weight gain, even with a new love for ice cream developing, and slathered on all the advertised creams and oils promoted as having the ability to fight genetics and nature. It helps; especially with relieving the dry irritation my skin was experiencing.
I also can’t stress enough the importance of water, inside and out. I love a hyaluronic acid serum under my moisturizer. With all the advice most pregnant women receive, from this expecting aesthetician, I recommend discussing the changes to your skin with your dermatologist especially when it comes to what we put in and on our skin and body. Together we can make the nine months be exactly what they should be, a glowing time for mom.

Pregnancy is the perfect time to take care of yourself and your growing family!