Pregnancy is a transformative time. It can be exciting, engigorating and incredibly empowering, but it also means facing challenges, which can come in the form of some unexpected changes to your skin. Hormonal fluctuations can cause a range of skin concerns, from acne to stretch marks, and may even trigger or exacerbate conditions like melasma.
Skincare is self-care, especially during this time. Taking care of your skin during and after pregnancy is important for your own comfort and confidence, as well as for the health of your baby.
Here are 5 tips for maintaining healthy skin during and after pregnancy.
Use Gentle, Plant-Based Products
During pregnancy and post-partum, it's important to choose skincare products that are gentle on your skin and free from harmful chemicals. Many traditional skincare products contain harsh ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin, and some have been linked to negative health outcomes for both mother and baby.
Plant-based skincare, on the other hand, is formulated with natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin and free from potentially harmful chemicals. Look for products that contain nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and functional mushrooms to help soothe and hydrate your skin.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is important for overall health during pregnancy, but it can also help keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Proper hydration can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, prevent dryness and flakiness, and even help with acne. Staying sufficiently hydrated is also important for flushing out toxins, which can help keep your skin clear and healthy.
Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Sun exposure can exacerbate skin concerns like melasma - which is common during pregnancy – so it's particularly important to protect your skin from the sun during pregnancy. Look for a natural, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and apply it every day, even if it's cloudy outside. Wear a hat and protective clothing when you're outdoors for extended periods, and try to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours.
Choose Nephoria Over Retinol
When it comes to skincare during pregnancy, safety is key. While retinol may offer benefits for skin health, its potential harms are well-documented - especially for new and soon-to-be moms. That's why it's time to consider a safer, natural alternative - like Nephoria. This ancient botanical, extracted from the leaves of the rambutan fruit in Southeast Asia, offers a non-endocrine-disruptive retinol alternative that is safe for pregnancy.
Nephoria's natural powers combat fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture, while supporting natural collagen production and increasing skin elasticity. With Nephoria, you can enjoy a healthy, glowing complexion without compromising your safety or the safety of your baby.
Avoid Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)
EDCs are pervasive in everyday life and can disrupt your endocrine system, leading to and exacerbating a host of health issues. It's essential to avoid exposure, especially during pregnancy or if you have endocrine issues like PCOS or Endometriosis. Elder Flower creates EDC-free products to protect your natural cycles and enhance your natural glow. All our skincare products are free from endocrine-disruptors, making them a safe choice for pregnant women.
READ MORE: THE WORLD WITHIN | YOUR ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
Taking care of your skin during and after pregnancy is important for both your own comfort and the health of your baby. By choosing gentle, plant-based skincare products, staying hydrated, protecting your skin from the sun, choosing nephoria over retinol, and avoiding endocrine disrupting chemical, you can keep your skin healthy, glowing, and beautiful throughout your pregnancy and beyond.
