Throughout Ashley’s pregnancy, she’s made a conscious effort to learn more about the safest beauty products she could possibly use. Along with avoiding some common treatments, it’s important that pregnant women are aware of the ingredients that they should avoid throughout their pregnancy journeys. To keep yourself and your baby safe, we spoke to Credo Product Development Manager, Allie Compton, about all-things beauty for pregnant women. Ahead, you’ll learn more about what to stay away from as well as recommended alternatives and products.
Ingredients to Avoid
Right off the bat, retinol and other vitamin A derivatives should be avoided by pregnant women at all costs. However, Compon notes that there are natural alternatives to Retinol out there. For example, Rosehip extract or oil and Bakuchiol work, but it’s always important to check with your healthcare provider for their recommendations before use. Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid (greater than 2%), hydroquinone (a skin bleaching agent), chemical sunscreens (like oxybenzone), phthalates (found in some fragrance constituents), parabens (potential endocrine disruptors), sulfates, and aluminum chloride (try switching to a deodorant that’s free of aluminum) should also be avoided. Some healthcare professionals also recommend avoiding the topical application of undiluted essential oils, but this may vary from person to person. As a best practice, check-in with your doctor for recommendations on what you should avoid/use as you are a unique individual, and what works for others may not necessarily work for you.
What are your top product recommendations for pregnant women?
Brightening & Collagen Boosting: Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) + Vitamin C
Pregnancy safe retinol alternative:
Hydrating and moisturizing: Hyaluronic Acid + Lanolin
Lanolin is an emollient derived from sheep wool (no sheep are harmed in the making) that is has a similar chemical structure to the sebum we produce to moisturize our skin. This ingredient can help to prevent water loss in the skin by locking in moisture.
Safe for fighting breakouts & restoring glow: Lactic Acid + Azelaic Acid
Aluminum Free + Essential Oil Free Deodorants:
Mineral-based SPF: Zinc oxide (the active ingredient in mineral sunscreen), can also help to reduce redness and inflammation in the skin, including inflammation caused by breakouts.
What are some pregnancy-safe beauty products that you love? Let us know on Instagram!