Pregnancy is said to be the most transformational time in a woman’s life. But the natural course of hormonal fluctuations can sometimes show on the skin in the form of sudden bouts of acne and pigmentation. The good news, however, is that you needn’t put your entire skincare routine on hold—just certain ingredients. So if you’re looking to go the extra mile, here’s what you need to know about pregnancy-safe skin serums.
What kind of skincare concerns are common during pregnancy?
The most important thing to know about skincare and pregnancy is that this is a time of physiological and hormonal changes that can often manifest in various skincare concerns. “I frequently encounter patients dealing with a range of skin issues during this period,” shares Dr Chytra Anand, dermatologist and founder of SkinQ. “Melasma is a common concern characterised by dark, discoloured patches on the face, often triggered by hormonal changes. These fluctuations can also lead to increased oil production, resulting in acne breakouts.”
Which ingredients should one look for in skincare products during this period?
For those looking to maintain healthy, radiant skin during the nine months, looking for these active ingredients in face serums can help:
- Hyaluronic acid for hydration and maintaining skin elasticity without causing irritation.
- Vitamin C to help with pigmentation issues and provide antioxidant protection.
- Vitamin E, shea butter, aloe vera and chamomile as natural ingredients that can soothe sensitive skin.
- Glycolic acid and lactic acid for gentle exfoliation, while avoiding high concentrations.
“It’s important to avoid ingredients like high concentrations of retinoids, salicylic acid and certain essential oils, as they may not be safe for usage during pregnancy,” she cautions.
How to safely use face serums during pregnancy
“This is not the time to try trends, but to stabilise your pregnancy skincare routine,” Dr Anand tells us. In her rulebook, taking care of sensitive skin during pregnancy means drilling down on the basics: cleanse, nourish and protect. For those who would like to keep skincare concerns at bay, she shares her best advice for using face serums during pregnancy.
Choose serums wisely
Opt for face serums with safe ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, ferulic acid, vitamin E and antioxidants. It is essential to avoid high concentrations of essential oils during this period.
Patch test
Before incorporating a new serum into your pregnancy skincare routine, perform a patch test to rule out any adverse reactions.
Gradual introduction
Start with a small amount of your chosen serum and gradually increase its usage to allow your skin sufficient time to adjust.
Sun protection
Sunscreen is one of the most important steps of any skincare routine. But during pregnancy, it’s important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, as some serums can increase photosensitivity.
Managing skincare concerns during pregnancy requires a careful approach to prioritise safety for both mother and baby. “It’s essential to consult with a dermatologist or skin specialist to curate a pregnancy skincare routine that addresses your specific needs while ensuring the well-being of your growing baby,” the dermatologist says.
