Your Guide to Pregnancy Safe Skincare

Everyone talks about that elusive pregnancy glow. The “glow” is due to increased levels of sebum & lipids thanks to an increase in hormones called androgens. However on the flip side, the increase in hormones, sensitivity and sebum may result in pregnancy breakouts and hyper-pigmentation. It’s also important to note that ingredients/products you have used previously may now cause a reaction that is different to your usual skin response. This is due to the increased sensitivity throughout your body.

During pregnancy the best approach is to simplify your skincare routine, focusing on prevention and skin health using products that are as natural as possible. Luckily, the Pod Organics Skincare range has been formulated specifically to be safe during pre-conception, pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding. We use only natural ingredients that have been specially chosen for their calming and restorative benefits.

Below is a list of ingredients detailing what to avoid and what you can enjoy to ensure your skin is nourished.

Ingredients that are NOT SAFE:

• Chemical based Vitamin A / Retinol - Vitamin A can build up to toxic levels if you have too much in your system. Retinol is absorbed by the skin and can increase your levels of Vitamin A to toxic levels.
• Benzoyl Peroxide - found in many skincare products for acne treatment.
• Thioglycolic Acid - Found in anti-ageing skin-care and can be prescribed by a GP for acne treatment.
• Parabans - very commonly used in skincare and bodycare to help prolong the shelf-life of products.
• Diazolidinyl Urea - found in mascara and can release Formaldehyde.
• Salicylic Acid - a common ingredient in acne skincare. Also known as Beta hydroxy acid or (BHA).
• Hydroquinone - a skin lightening ingredient
• Formaldehyde - used as a preservative to prolong shelf life and prevent bacterial contamination
• Phthalates - used to help stabilise the formula in beauty products.
• Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) – a foaming agent found in soaps, cleanses and washes.

Beauty treatments to avoid during pregnancy

• Chemical peels
• Teeth whitening
• Laser
• Botox
• Sauna treatments

Fear not, there are still incredible ingredients and treatments that are completely safe during pre-conception and pregnancy:

Ingredients that are SAFE:

• Niacinamide aka B3
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Brighlette
• Bakuchiol
• Elderberry Fruit Extract
• Rose Hydrosol

Beauty treatments that are safe:

• LED treatments
• Facials
• Waxing
• Spray tanning
• Pregnancy massage
• Manicures & pedicures
• Body scrubs

Remember it’s always best to receive professional skincare recommendations, especially during pregnancy. Talk to your skincare specialist, beautician or doctor for specific advice. The information in this blog is of a general nature.