Some people literally blossom and can enjoy a radiant complexion, others have to deal with acne, and itching. Pregnancy disrupts hormones, presenting pregnant women with a conundrum. Numerous myths surround skin care during pregnancy, some of which cause considerable uncertainty. But what should expectant mothers really consider when it comes to skin care?
Is skin care harmful during pregnancy?
Let's start with an important topic that concerns many pregnant women. They wonder whether and how they can care for their skin during pregnancy without endangering their baby. If you look around online on this topic, you'll quickly see where these concerns come from. Many websites advise against various products. But is this actually true?
The fact is that quality standards in Germany are very high and regulations are strict. This means, conversely, that essentially all over-the-counter products can also be used during pregnancy. Ingredients considered potentially dangerous are usually present in such small quantities that they have no effect on the unborn child. Caution is advised with prescription creams and ointments – they may contain higher doses, and their use should therefore be discussed with a dermatologist beforehand.
The exception: Retinol
There is, however, one exception: the ingredient retinol, which is also found in our should be avoided during pregnancy. This is because the active ingredient belongs to the vitamin A family. These can actually pose a risk to the unborn child, which is why any products containing retinoids, including retinol, should be left unused in the bathroom cabinet during pregnancy.
What are the skin’s needs during pregnancy?
Some consider it a myth, but it actually exists: the so-called pregnancy glow. This is because water retention makes the skin appear plumper and fine lines disappear. Furthermore, the skin's blood flow improves, creating additional small blood vessels and giving the complexion a rosy glow.
However, the opposite can also be true. Blood vessels become visible as unsightly red spots, skin dries out, or acne develops. Regardless of the effects pregnancy has on the body, the fact is that the skin's needs change due to hormonal changes. Therefore, you may need to completely revamp your skincare routine. Many pregnant women struggle with the following skin changes:
Pigment disorders
Many expectant mothers discover dark spots on their faces during pregnancy. These appear primarily on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. These spots, known as melasma, often disappear on their own after birth. However, if you want to prevent them, you should apply an SPF of at least 30 to your face daily. For intensive sun exposure, the SPF should even be 50 during pregnancy. When choosing sunscreen, just make sure it doesn't contain the UV filter octocrylene. This is considered a concern, and not just for pregnant women.
Tip: Niacinamide Serum for pigment spots
Our Niacinamide Serum is ideal during pregnancy because niacinamide inhibits the synthesis of melanin – the substance responsible for pigment spots.
With regular use, pigment spots are visibly lightened.
Dry, itchy skin
Even those who previously tended toward oily skin can experience dry skin during pregnancy – after all, hormones are simply going haywire. In this case, moisturizing shower oils are best. If you enjoy relaxing in the bath with your baby bump, you should avoid bubble baths, as they strip the skin of moisture. Here, too, there are oils that are much better for dry skin. Our Body Lotion is also a wonderful moisturizer that restores dry skin to its soft, supple state in seconds.
Stretch marks on the stomach
They are the greatest fear of many pregnant women, but stretch marks are completely natural and testament to the wonders the female body can achieve. Genetics and connective tissue play a decisive role in whether or not stretch marks develop. However, their formation can be prevented with daily moisturizing and gentle massage.
Pregnancy acne
During pregnancy, the hormones estrogen and progesterone are boosted. These also activate the sebaceous glands, which is why many pregnant women suddenly struggle with oily skin and so-called pregnancy acne. In this case, a thorough daily facial cleansing is essential. The products used should be skin-clarifying but definitely not aggressive. Our Cleansing Foam, Enzyme Peeling, and Clear Skin Serum are ideal for this.
Create soothing everyday rituals
Regardless of the effects pregnancy has on the skin, the largest organ in the human body should be well cared for daily, especially during this time. After all, the body performs almost incredible feats over the course of 40 weeks—and that deserves to be recognized.
A good tip for pregnant women is to view skin care as a daily, relaxing ritual. Take time for yourself and your body. For example, enjoy a full bath and feel the soothing warmth. Be careful not to take a bath that's too hot, though, as this can negatively impact your circulation. Then, while you're at it, gently rub in moisturizer and give yourself a gentle massage, especially on your stomach. This works by gently moving the skin back and forth between your fingers. A face and body scrub can also work wonders every now and then.
Conclusion: Don't worry too much
Pregnancy is a major life change. Hormones aren't the only thing that makes you worry about your baby from day one. And that's completely normal. However, you'll find that it will be good for you to relax as much as possible.
In any case, skin care shouldn't be a topic that causes you sleepless nights. Make sure your skincare products don't contain retinol. All other products you can buy in Germany are regulated so you don't have to worry. Instead, think of your daily skincare routine as a soothing ritual where you can unwind.
And last but not least: Listen to your body! It will tell you what it needs and what's good for it right now. Whether it's dry skin, pregnancy acne, or itching, you can use your symptoms to establish a skincare routine that's perfectly tailored to your needs. There's no reason to cling to your old habits. Accept that your pregnancy is an exceptional state—but a beautiful one, one you should enjoy to the fullest and without too many worries.
