Congratulations new soon-to-be momma! You’re pregnant! Pregnancy brings more than a baby growing in your womb and an endless amount of different food cravings. While a new life is forming inside you, there will be some side effects that come along for the ride into motherhood such as morning sickness, more energy, gas, more or less sleep, hormonal acne, glowing skin, growing hair, and the list goes on. Since every women’s experience varies, it’s important to be aware of and gentle with yourself during this precious time. Understanding the experience is not a one-size-fits-all empowers you to take every month that passes by as a gift. That being said you’ll quickly begin to notice how your skin changes during pregnancy. This includes facial and body care as your physique takes on a new form. Just like you’ll get a list from your healthcare provider on foods to avoid within the next nine months, you’ll want to be mindful of specific ingredients to eliminate from your skin and body regime. Here are few ingredients that you should avoid during pregnancy: Retinoids, found in anti-aging products, Tetracycline, mostly in acne cream, Hydroquinone, within dark spot serums, Phthalates, found in fragranced soaps and lotions, Ammonia, within hair dyes, and Thioglycolic Acid, used in hair removal treatments.
During a woman’s pregnancy journey, she may come across dark patches that were not there prior to conceiving. The appearance of hyperpigmentation is due to an increase in estrogen levels which promotes the skin’s melanin production. In order to prevent this from continuing, apply mineral SPF on a daily basis. This type of sunscreen is best for children, pregnant, or breastfeeding women.
While some women are lucky with the new mommy-to-be radiant glow, others may experience teenage-inspired breakouts. With hormonal changes that come with carrying a new bundle of joy, this skincare concern is normal. Many women claim this happens within the first trimester then goes away within the next few months. If you’re experiencing flare-ups and pimples, try using organic ingredients such as plant-based antioxidants, sulfur and/or camphor. These anti-inflammatory properties target bacteria, fight against free-radicals and promote healthy hydrated skin also known as the new mom glow.
Stretch marks are a normal part of pregnancy. As you prepare to welcome your bun in the oven into the world, you may notice pink-purple lines in a zigzag pattern around your belly. First, embrace your shape and be gentle with your physical appearance, you’re carrying precious gold. Secondly, over 90% of women gain stretch marks during their pregnancy, therefore you’re not alone. You’ll want to invest in products that are cocoa butter-based, shea butter infused, and avocado-reviewed. These elements help with skin elasticity, boost collagen, and promote hydration. Lathering your skin with these types of products on a daily basis will result in smoother, healthier skin.
Here are a few pregnancy picks from Dr. Goldfaden you’ll want to add:
Goldfaden MD Doctor’s Scrub, $75, This daily facial exfoliator provides hydration while gently removing dead skin for a radiant, smoother looking canvas.
Goldfaden MD Pure Start, $35, For a fresh and light daily cleanser start and end your day with this grapefruit and rosehip seed infused wash. It removes surface oils and impurities, leaving the skin fresh and makeup-free.
Goldfaden MD Facial Detox, $65, Adding a weekly face mask once a week will cleanse blemish-prone skin and minimizes the appearance of pores. Made with Zinc Oxide, Sulfur, and Camphor, this detox treatment is sure to result in a radiant even-toned complexion.
Goldfaden MD Vital Boost, $68, Enhance that motherly glow with a game-changing moisturizer. The brightening skin agents and Gooseberry Extracts will leave your skin looking dewy, radiant, and flawless. It’ll be a post-facial look that’ll have everyone swoon.
The bottom line: Pregnancy is different for all women. As you began to see changes within your skin, remember to ask your doctor and try using holistic, natural, and vegan ingredients.
Disclaimer: GOLDFADEN MD products are based on a holistic approach to skincare, using key naturally derived ingredients. It is safe to use on sensitive skin, but always best to test any product on a small area first. Prior to use when pregnant, please consult your physician on the use of any products and for further questions related to skin allergies that may arise during pregnancy.
ABOUT THE WRITER
Ashley Jimenez is a multi-media journalist and Co-Founder of LatinaWatch. She oversees LatinaWatch.com and all of the website’s editorial and video content and strategy, as well as social media channels. As the former Beauty Director of HOLA! USA, the Puerto Rican-Dominican reporter, is an expert in identifying trends, highlighting multicultural content, and exploring thoughtful conversations within the influential Latina beauty segment. Her past roles include Senior Beauty Editor at Latina Magazine, where she created beauty, wellness, and lifestyle content specifically for women of color. She explored intersections of vision, Afro-Latina identity within the hair industry, socially conscious skin care, mental health topics. Ashley’s dedication to storytelling has created groundbreaking content that speaks to the duality women face as they navigate the world while honoring traditions and crafting new age customs.