Pregnancy is a unique and beautiful stage in many women's lives. It is a time of many changes, both physical and emotional, and almost all of them are caused by hormonal factors. One of the biggest transformations occurs in the skin. During these months, it is common for new skin needs to arise: from dryness and sensitivity, to stretch marks, spots, or varicose veins.
To maintain optimal health, it is essential for pregnant women to be careful about the products they consume, both food and what they apply to their skin. It is very important that all products are pregnancy-safe, as many harmful ingredients can otherwise be absorbed and enter the bloodstream. That's why today we're telling you how to care for your skin during pregnancy naturally, safely, and consciously.
Why does skin change during pregnancy?
During gestation, the body adapts to support the baby's development. This process involves a major hormonal revolution, especially due to increased estrogen and progesterone, which directly affects the skin's natural balance.
Other factors associated with pregnancy, such as increased blood volume, fluid retention, and tissue distension, also influence the skin's appearance and behavior during these months.
Some of the most common skin changes during pregnancy are:
- Stretch marks: Approximately 90% of pregnant women develop them at some point during gestation, especially from the second trimester onwards. They are usually located in areas where the skin stretches rapidly, such as the abdomen, thighs, and chest.
- Hyperpigmentation: More than 90% of pregnant women experience a visible increase in pigmentation in areas such as the thighs, mammary areola, face, or the midline of the abdomen. This pigmentation can intensify with sun exposure.
- Dryness or itching: It is common to notice increased skin dryness, especially in areas where the skin stretches due to the growing belly. This can cause itching or discomfort and requires constant hydration with nourishing and gentle products.
- Changes in hair and nails: Hair can become more abundant and shiny in some women, while in others it tends to weaken or fall out more easily, especially postpartum. It is also common for nails to become more fragile, thin, or brittle.
- Increased vascularization and appearance of varicose veins: During pregnancy, the body increases blood supply, especially in areas such as the abdomen and chest. This more active circulation can lead to small spider veins (also called angiomas), or even varicose veins, which affect nearly 50% of pregnant women.
It is important to remember that each pregnancy is unique and not all women experience the same changes. You may not show any of these signs, several may appear at once, or different manifestations may arise. Therefore, the essential thing is to know that these changes can occur and to observe yourself, listen to your body, and adapt your care to your own needs.
Tips for caring for your skin during pregnancy
1. Hydrate deeply every day
Hydration is your best ally to prevent stretch marks and relieve itching. Having hydrated skin is essential for it to be healthy during this stage. For all this, using creams or oils rich in effective natural ingredients and applying them to the abdomen or thighs is essential if you want to keep your skin soft and elastic.
Apply products that are pregnancy-safe, with a circular massage and on dry skin after showering, as this is the best time to enhance their absorption.
From Banbu, we recommend using our Golden Glow body oil during this stage, as it provides the necessary extra hydration, reduces the appearance of stretch marks, and benefits the overall health of your skin.
2. Sun protection always, even on cloudy days
Frequent use of sun protection is very important, regardless of your situation. During pregnancy, this gesture becomes even more important, as the skin is more prone to hyperpigmentation, i.e., the appearance of dark spots on the skin.
Use a broad-spectrum facial sunscreen every day, even if it's not sunny. Prioritize sunscreens that are gentle on sensitive skin and 100% safe during gestation.
3. Exfoliate a couple of times a week
During pregnancy, it is important to exfoliate the entire body frequently, once or twice a week. Doing this promotes the elimination of dead cells and helps regeneration, which will make the skin look less dull and reduce stretch marks.
4. Avoid scratching irritated skin
Many times, pregnant women experience itchy skin. However, it is not good to scratch irritated areas, as this can worsen the itching. Applying a cream with soothing natural active ingredients will be enough to calm the sensation of irritation.
5. Diet and rest, invisible allies
Eating a diet rich in antioxidants, water, healthy fats, and protein promotes skin health from within. Getting enough sleep also improves cellular regeneration processes. Everything counts to maintain healthy and balanced skin during this stage.
Which cosmetic ingredients are not recommended during pregnancy?
Below, we provide a list of ingredients that are not recommended during pregnancy. Our recommendation is never to use these ingredients, as they are toxic and can act as endocrine disruptors, with serious health consequences. They are as follows:
- Phthalates: These are chemical substances used as plasticizers and solvents in some perfumes, nail polishes, or makeup products. They have been linked to hormonal alterations and possible reproductive risks, so their use during pregnancy should be avoided.
- Retinoids: these ingredients are vitamin A derivatives and are common in traditional cosmetic products. Although very effective, they can be absorbed by the skin in significant amounts and, in high doses, have been linked to an increased risk of congenital malformations. Therefore, their use is recommended to be avoided throughout pregnancy.
- Toluene: Primarily found in conventional nail polishes, this solvent can have negative effects on the fetal nervous system. Prolonged exposure has also been linked to alterations in child development.
- Formaldehyde: This is a preservative present in some hair care products, nail polishes, or straightening treatments. It is associated with adverse effects such as irritations, allergies, and even fetal toxicity, so it is advisable to avoid it during gestation.
As we have mentioned, these compounds, in addition to being especially harmful to pregnant women, are toxic, and prolonged exposure to them on anyone's skin can generate problems in the endocrine system. Opting for natural and toxin-free cosmetics is the best option, as the skin during pregnancy can become more reactive and needs conscious care.
How to know which cosmetic products are optimal for pregnancy?
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is essential to pay special attention to the products we apply to our skin. Carefully reading labels and knowing the ingredients they contain is key to avoiding those that may pose a risk to you or your baby's development. If you have any doubts, it is best to consult a health or dermatology professional, especially if the product contains active ingredients you are not familiar with.
Whenever possible, choose brands committed to transparency and safety, which formulate specifically for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. At this stage, it is ideal to opt for natural and organic cosmetics, made with gentle, plant-based ingredients, less prone to causing reactions or unwanted effects. Also, make sure that the products are dermatologically tested and have clinical endorsements that guarantee their safe use during these important months.
Remember: every skin during pregnancy is unique
What works for one woman may not be ideal for another. Observe your skin, care for it lovingly, and if you have doubts, consult an expert. At Banbu, we have alternatives to make skin care during pregnancy as simple as possible, without risking your health or your baby's.
