Congratulations, you’re expecting a sweet little one! You’ve surely noticed many changes taking place (emotional, mental and physical), and the appearance of your skin is no exception. Pregnancy gives some fortunate women a beautiful glow; but for others, increased hormonal activity can have the opposite effect, resulting in a multitude of skin issues. When you’re expecting, change is inevitable, so knowing what you should and shouldn’t do for all aspects of day-to-day life is a priority. Here are a few dos and don’ts when it comes to caring for your skin.
DO know what you’re using
It’s important to look at what you put on your body topically because skin absorbs up to 60 percent of whatever it comes in contact with, and harmful chemicals can be absorbed through the outside layers of your skin. The chemicals found in cosmetics and skincare products can penetrate skin and then circulate throughout your body, damaging skin cells and putting us at risk for developing serious health concerns over time. Many of the chemicals found in skincare items can cause irritation, lead to breakouts, trigger sun sensitivities and even deteriorate the skin’s barrier function.
Avoid using products containing the following considered toxic chemicals:
Artificial (Synthetic) Colors and Fragrances, Isopropyl Alcohol, Parabens (Methyl-, Propyl-, Butyl-, and Ethyl-), Phthalates, Sodium Lauryl (Laureth) Sulfate, Ureas (Imidazolidinyl, Diazolidinyl, DMDM), Diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA) and Formaldehyde
MyChelle Dermaceuticals was created to provide active and effective skin care that is safe to both the user and the environment. Since our inception, our commitment has been to never use any toxic ingredients or byproducts.
DON’T overdo it
When it comes to skin care, keeping things simple while pregnant or breastfeeding is important. Blemishes, pimples and full-on acne are common for many pregnant women, so you’re not alone. Blame it (and everything else) on the hormones! When you’re pregnant, increased hormone levels during the first trimester cause an surge in the skin’s production of oil, which can create a lovely glow or a bad bout of acne.
Clearing up your complexion can be challenging during this time because skin can become more sensitive and reactive. Avoid using harsh, drying acne treatments because this can cause irritation and added inflammation. Some acne products also contain Vitamin A, certain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and benzoyl peroxide, which should not be used during pregnancy due to possible birth defects. Always consult your physician about prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatments being used.
Here at MyChelle, we’vecarefully chosen natural, bioactive ingredients to deeply calm blemish-prone skin, minimize oil and keep pores pure, just the way they were meant to be. Every mom-to-be needs some TLC and pampering. Try the Cranberry Mud Mask as a weekly treatment to deeply purify and calm skin where problems start. Also consider incorporating the Oil Free Grapefruit Cream into your daily regimen. The lightweight hydrator nourishes blemish-prone skin without clogging pores.
Do protect your skin
One of the most challenging pregnancy skin problems is hyperpigmentation, or melasma, also known as chloasma or “pregnancy mask.” Melasma is the appearance of spots of dark, discolored, pigmented skin on your face. The most important thing to do if you’re experiencing an increase in hyperpigmentation is to wear sun protection. Most skin discoloration during pregnancy, including the “pregnancy mask,” will fade within a few months after giving birth. Some spots can stick around, though, so prevent increased damage by wearing SPF regularly.
MyChelle has created an array of über-safe, natural sun protectants that will guard against both UVA and UVB rays. Try the Replenishing Solar Defense SPF 30 to repair and avert photo damage brought on by the sun’s rays while also maintaining protective moisture. ZinClear™ non-opaque zinc oxide provides natural protection against both UVA and UVB, without harsh chemicals. A blend of kukui and macadamia oils combine with red algae to reduce the look of lines and wrinkles brought on by environmental stress.
DON’T skip the moisture
If your skin is looking dismal, dry and downright flaky, then you could be experiencing pregnancy-related dryness. Instead of hormones triggering increased oil production, there may be a decrease, resulting in dryness and a loss of elasticity within the skin. Unfortunately, dry skin can also lead to stretch marks during pregnancy. The worst part is that you can’t prevent stretch marks, but you can help minimize their appearance, length and depth by moisturizing your belly and beautifully growing body. Keep your body moisturized with a simple organic coconut oil, which is hydrating and has good amounts of the antioxidant vitamin E, which is very protective.
Keep your skin saturated with hydration by incorporating a moisturizing serum into your daily routine. The Serious Hyaluronic Firming Serum is ideal for someone experiencing pregnancy-induced dryness but who also wants some anti-aging goodness. This deep-penetrating serum restores moisture using the hydrating agents naturally found in healthy skin. Hyaluronic acid binds water to the skin, improving suppleness and plumping fine lines.
DO consult your physician
MyChelle products are considered safe to use while pregnant; however you should always consult your physician before using any product you are concerned with or have questions about, because skin absorbs nutrients, minerals, vitamins and unfortunately toxins as well. Since each pregnancy is unique, it is always best to consult your physician because he or she will be able to address your concerns and best answer your questions.