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Achieving a skin glow during pregnancy

Achieving a skin glow during pregnancy
  • PublishedJuly 16, 2024

Having a skincare routine during pregnancy is important as it ensures your body is well taken care of when it’s changing -not just for beauty but overall wellbeing.

Even before we dive deeper into this issue, the best skincare routines are the ones with less chemical products but more natural products like fruits.

Additionally, skin care is not only about what is done on the skin. The physical well-being also plays a huge role in attaining a glowing skin during pregnancy.

Pregnancy comes with hormonal changes that can affect the mother’s skin hence the importance of having a simple but functional skincare routine.

Here are some essential skincare tips and products pregnant mothers can use to maintain that glow:

  1. Hydration

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to dryness and sensitivity. 

Therefore, expectant mothers should keep their skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

For additional moisture, a pregnancy-safe lotion or cream can be used to maintain elasticity and prevent itchiness.

2. Sun Protection

Pregnancy hormones can make the skin more susceptible to sunburns and pigmentation changes.

To protect your skin from sunburns, you can use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. 

Physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are safe choices during pregnancy.

3. Gentle Cleansing

You should opt for a mild, soap-free cleanser to wash your face twice daily which helps to remove dirt and excess oil without stripping your skin’s natural moisture barrier. 

It is important to go for products with natural ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile, which are soothing and gentle to your skin.

4. Choose Pregnancy-Safe Products

For any product that an expectant mother should decide to use, they should read labels carefully and avoid products containing parabens, phthalates and artificial fragrances as they may potentially harm the baby.

It is safer to use products specifically formulated for pregnant women, ensuring they are free from potentially harmful chemicals.

5.  Treat Skin Changes Safely

Many expectant mothers experience changes such as acne or dark spots (melasma). 

Avoid using retinoids, salicylic acid and hydroquinone, which may not be safe during pregnancy, instead, consult your dermatologist for pregnancy-safe alternatives.

6. Pamper with Natural Remedies

Incorporate natural skincare remedies like coconut oil for stretch marks or a cooling cucumber mask for tired eyes. These simple treatments can provide soothing relief and enhance your natural pregnancy glow.

7. Stay Hygienic 

Hormonal changes may also affect hair growth and skin oiliness therefore, keep scalp and skin clean with gentle shampoos and body washes to prevent any discomfort or irritation.

By following these tips and choosing the right products, you can maintain healthy, radiant skin throughout your pregnancy journey!

 

Written By
Wangari Njoroge

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