Safe cosmetics during pregnancy

by Atención al cliente on Mar 21, 2024

One of the most important things pregnant people should be careful about is their consumption. We're not just talking about food consumption, but cosmetic product consumption as well. When a person is pregnant, they should be aware of the natural changes that occur in the body. Many ingredients can be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream, affecting its function.

We've talked about the endocrine system more than once, and we're going to do it again. We'll tell you what you need to know about your body and how it behaves throughout pregnancy for healthy consumption for yourself and your future baby, while also being environmentally friendly.

Functioning of the endocrine system during pregnancy and lactation

The endocrine system undergoes a series of changes during pregnancy to support fetal development and prepare the body for childbirth and lactation. These hormonal changes are essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy and for the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Increased hormones: During pregnancy, there is a significant increase in the production of hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which are crucial for maintaining the pregnancy and preparing the body for childbirth.

Estrogens enable the proper development of female sex muscles, regulate the menstrual cycle, contribute to bone health due to calcium absorption, keep the vagina lubricated, influence mood and brain function, and during pregnancy play an important role in fetal development.

While progesterone is responsible for the uterine lining, the endometrium, for egg implantation and thereafter in maintaining the pregnancy, preventing premature birth. It is also responsible for preparing the breasts for milk production and for modulating the immune system that allows the fetus to live in the body.

Furthermore, it is responsible for basal temperature, and an imbalance in its production has been linked to mood swings, even leading to the development of disorders such as depression or anxiety.

Thyroid gland function: The thyroid gland, responsible for regulating cellular metabolism and the production of thyroid hormones, experiences changes in its function during pregnancy. The production of these thyroid hormones increases to meet the metabolic demands of the mother and fetus. In some cases, this can result in temporary hyperthyroidism or subclinical hypothyroidism.

Pituitary gland function: The pituitary gland, which controls the production of many other hormones in the body, also experiences changes during pregnancy. For example, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) may slightly decrease due to increased levels of thyroid hormones produced by the placenta.

Production of placental hormones: The placenta produces specific hormones during pregnancy, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is the hormone detected in pregnancy tests. These hormones are crucial for maintaining the pregnancy and supporting fetal development.

Changes in insulin sensitivity: During pregnancy, insulin sensitivity may decrease, which can lead to a temporary form of insulin resistance. This helps ensure an adequate supply of glucose for the developing fetus.

When a person is lactating, the endocrine system functions differently than normal. It is important to know that all the aspects mentioned above are also related to this stage. However, some are specific to this state, such as milk production in the breasts, which is enhanced through hormones like oxytocin and prolactin.

Substances you should not consume during pregnancy (and never)

Pregnant women should avoid certain ingredients in cosmetic products due to the potential risks they pose to the health of the developing fetus. The dermal route is one of the fastest to reach the bloodstream, which is why these should be avoided as much as possible:

Retinoids: Retinoids, such as retinol and retinoic acid, are vitamin A derivatives that can be absorbed through the skin in significant amounts. In large quantities, vitamin A increases the risk of birth defects in the fetus.

Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid commonly found in acne products and exfoliants. It can be absorbed through the skin and, in large quantities, can cause problems in fetal development.

Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a preservative used in some cosmetic products that has been linked to negative health effects, such as irritation and allergies. Its exposure during pregnancy is harmful to fetal development.

Toluene: Toluene is a solvent commonly found in nail polishes and paints that can cause neurological damage in the developing fetus and has been associated with developmental problems in children.

Phthalates: Phthalates are chemical compounds used as plasticizers in some cosmetic products that have been linked to hormonal and reproductive problems. Exposure during pregnancy can pose risks to fetal development.

Tips for selecting cosmetic products

It is essential to carefully read product labels and avoid those containing questionable ingredients or those that have been linked to possible health risks during pregnancy and lactation.
Consult a professional before using any cosmetic product during pregnancy and lactation, especially if there are doubts about the safety of certain ingredients.
Opt for trusted brands that are committed to providing safe and high-quality products for pregnant and lactating individuals.

During this stage, it is recommended to switch to cosmetic products formulated with natural and organic ingredients, which are much less prone to adverse effects. It is important to look for products that have been dermatologically tested and have the backing of clinical studies that support their safety during pregnancy and lactation.

At Banbu, we have gentle and non-irritating alternatives, such as vegetable oils, natural butters, and plant extracts, that offer skin benefits without risks to the baby's and pregnant person's health. Products with essential oils are not suitable for consumption; the rest are suitable and highly recommended for pregnancy and lactation.

All are natural, vegan, and organic. They are also free of toxins and plastics and are gluten-free. Each one has undergone proper studies and dermatological tests for responsible and harmless consumption.