Some call it a pregnancy glow. It’s that luminousness that makes us feel beautiful. Glowing skin is healthy skin. To achieve this glow, we need to look within. Healthy skin is a reflection of our internal wellness. During pregnancy, it's important to take extra care of yourself, inside and out, to protect your natural glow. Hormonal changes can result in skin issues such as sensitivity, melasma, reactivity, or acne, and certain skincare ingredients can potentially harm your developing fetus. Individuals with conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, which are characterized by hormonal imbalances, also tend to be prone to these skin concerns.
Let’s dive into the dos and don'ts of skincare ingredients for expecting mothers and those with sensitive skin.
Dos:
Opt for Natural and Organic Ingredients
When it comes to skincare, natural and organic ingredients are your best bet. They're typically gentler on the skin and are less likely to contain synthetic chemicals that can be harmful to you and your baby. Some great natural ingredients to look for include aloe vera, chamomile, calendula, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients can be particularly beneficial for individuals with skin sensitivities due to PCOS and endometriosis, as they help soothe and nourish the skin.
Use Mineral Sunscreens
Sunscreen is a must-have, but chemical sunscreens can potentially harm the developing fetus. Instead, opt for a mineral sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients work by physically blocking the sun's rays from penetrating the skin, making them a safe and effective choice.
Look for Products that Contain Antioxidants
Antioxidants are great for protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals. They can also help to soothe inflammation and prevent premature aging. Look for products that contain ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea. These antioxidants can be particularly beneficial for individuals with PCOS and endometriosis, as they can help combat oxidative stress and promote skin health. Our UNDERGLOW Hyper Hydration Serum is a perfect addition to your skincare routine as it contains potent antioxidants like snow fungus and vitamin E, which work in tandem with the hydrating power of hyaluronic acid, orange blossom, and aloe to preserve glowing elasticity in the natural skin, softening and slowing signs of aging.
Choose Products that Are Fragrance-Free
Fragrances are often made up of dozens of chemicals, some of which can be harmful to you, your skin, and your baby. Choose products that are fragrance-free or naturally scented with essential oils to avoid potential irritants.
Always Choose Non-Endocrine Disruptive Ingredients
Always opt for skincare products that contain non-endocrine disruptive ingredients to avoid any potential harm to your health. Elder Flower's mushroom-based skincare line is crafted with all-natural, organic ingredients that are gentle on sensitive skin types and always free of harmful toxins, making it a safe and effective choice for expecting mothers and those with sensitive skin.
Don'ts:
Avoid Retinoids
Retinoids are a class of vitamin A derivatives that are commonly found in anti-aging skincare products. However, they're not safe for use during pregnancy as they can potentially harm the developing fetus. Look for products that contain Nephoria, a natural alternative to retinol – it gently exfoliates, sloughing off dead skin cells and revealing a freshly unearthed visage. Our UNEARTH Overnight Facial Treatment is an easy to use, quick-drying facial mask made with functional mushrooms, powerful botanicals and nephoria.
Stay Away from Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that's commonly found in acne treatments. However, it can be harmful during pregnancy as it's been linked to birth defects. Instead, opt for gentle, natural acne treatments like tea tree oil or azelaic acid. These alternatives can be suitable for individuals with PCOS, who may experience hormonal acne.
Avoid Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the sun's rays, but they can potentially harm the developing fetus. Look for a mineral sunscreen instead, as they work by physically blocking the sun's rays from penetrating the skin.
Steer Clear of Parabens
Parabens are a class of preservatives that are commonly found in skincare and beauty products. However, they've been linked to hormone disruption and can potentially harm the developing fetus. Look for products that are paraben-free.
Don't Use Products that Contain Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals that are often found in fragrances and plastics. They've been linked to hormone disruption and should be avoided during pregnancy. Look for products that are phthalate-free.
Taking care of your skin during pregnancy and while dealing with sensitivity requires diligence and knowledge of ingredients. By following these dos and don'ts of skincare ingredients, you can ensure that you are nourishing your skin with safe and effective products. Remember, nature knows best, and by choosing plant-based solutions like Elder Flower's mushroom-based skincare line, you can achieve a healthy, radiant complexion while keeping both you and your baby safe.
