Explaining Summer Skincare Essentials for Expecting Mums

Pregnancy is a journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and yes, a radiant glow that seems to shine brighter with each passing day. As you embark on this beautiful adventure, navigating the summer months can present some unique challenges for your skin. From hormonal changes to rising temperatures, it's essential to adapt your skincare routine to keep your skin healthy and glowing throughout the season.

Sunscreen

Pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so slather on that sunscreen! You will probably have to switch to a pregnancy-safe sunscreen because regular sunscreens often contain chemicals that are absorbed by your skin. Some studies indicate that chemicals like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate which are commonly used in sunscreens could potentially interfere with your hormonal balance. With so many sunscreens in the market today, it’s not easy to figure out which ones are safest to use during your pregnancy. So, advice from dermatologists on the best pregnancy-safe sunscreens can help you make the best choice for you and your baby.

Gentle Cleanser

Pregnancy hormones are notorious for their effects on your mood but they also impact your skin. You might find that your regular cleanser makes your skin break out so it’s best to switch to a gentle cleanser that removes excess oil and dirt without leaving your skin dry. Look for hypoallergenic cleansers as they are less likely to cause skin irritation. Fragrances are unnecessary chemicals that are added to cleansers – they offer no real benefit and many of them can irritate sensitive skin. Look for cleansers that are “fragrance-free,” not “unscented.” Unscented products can still contain fragrances used to mask an unpleasant odour from other ingredients. Your cleanser should not contain parabens and phthalates as studies show that these ingredients are easily absorbed and were found in detectable levels in amniotic fluid.

Lightweight Moisturiser

In summer, our bodies produce more sweat and oil, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. However, it's a common misconception that moisturisers will make oily skin worse. In reality, using a lightweight moisturiser can help balance oil production and prevent your skin from overproducing oil. When choosing a moisturiser, look for one that contains natural oils such as coconut oil, almond oil, and jojoba which can keep your skin hydrated and nourished. Hyaluronic acid helps hydrate the skin without clogging pores and is safe to use during pregnancy. Glycerine is another pregnancy-safe ingredient that attracts moisture and keeps your skin hydrated and soft.

Nourishing Body Care

Don't forget to show the rest of your body some love! Invest in a pregnancy-safe body lotion to keep your skin hydrated and supple. Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness, such as your belly, breasts, and thighs. It’s a common misconception that using cocoa butter or olive oil on your belly can help prevent stretch marks. In fact, research shows that none of these oils really prevent stretch marks. However, products containing the herb centella or hyaluronic acid may help prevent stretch marks. A gentle massage with products that contain these ingredients may not only help to prevent stretch marks but also nourish your skin, reduce stress and provide a moment of relaxation and connection with your growing baby. 

Pregnancy is a physically and emotionally demanding time, which is why many women tend to neglect skincare during their pregnancy. However, it’s important to take care of your skin as a form of self-care and relaxation. Always use pregnancy-safe products and if you find that a product is not working for you, don’t hesitate to switch to a new one.  

Remember, once your baby arrives, the only skincare essential they require is baby-safe sunscreen. It's advisable to use sunscreen only after they reach 6 months of age, particularly when you plan to spend time in the sun. During infancy, it's crucial to shield babies from UV rays by keeping them covered up. As they grow up, sunscreen becomes increasingly vital for the protection of their skin.