Skincare for Pregnant People

Congratulations! Having a baby is an extraordinary journey filled with excitement, joy, and new beginnings. Along with the many transformations you'll experience during this time, some unexpected adjustments might need to be made, particularly in your skincare routine. With the right guidance, you can navigate this unique phase of life confidently, prioritizing both your health and your baby's well-being.

Pregnancy and Your Skin

Hormonal fluctuations are a natural part of pregnancy, and they can cause many changes in your skin. Here are some common skin changes that might occur:

• Stretch marks: As your skin stretches to accommodate your growing baby, stretch marks may develop, particularly on the abdomen, breasts, and thighs.

• Dark spots: Hormonal changes can cause dark spots, such as melasma, to appear on the face, especially on the cheeks, nose, and forehead.

• Itching: Some individuals may experience itching, especially on the abdomen, as the skin stretches.

• Dry skin: Changes in oil production during pregnancy can lead to dry skin.

• Acne: Fluctuations in hormones may cause acne, often on the face and chest.

• Spider veins: Pregnancy-related changes in blood flow can result in spider veins, especially on the face and legs.

• Varicose veins: Increased blood volume and pressure on the veins can lead to varicose veins, particularly on the legs.

• Skin tags: Small, benign growths called skin tags might appear, especially on the neck, armpits, and groin.

• Moles: Believe it or not, new moles can appear, and existing ones might change in size and color. Make a note of anything suspicious and discuss it with your doctor.

• Linea nigra: A dark line known as linea nigra may develop on the abdomen, running from the navel to the pubic bone.

No matter the changes you notice, maintaining a thoughtful skincare routine is essential. Opt for gentle, safe products that align with your skin's evolving needs, and consult your dermatologist if any concerns arise..

What to Avoid

When it comes to caring for your unborn child, you'll naturally want to take every precaution. This caution should extend to your skincare routine, as certain ingredients can be harmful to the developing fetus. Here's a rundown of some ingredients to be mindful of:

Retinoids: Common in anti-aging products and acne treatments, retinoids, including retinol and retinoic acid, pose a significant risk to unborn children. Research has shown that prescription retinoids have been linked to a 20% to 35% risk of severe birth defects, and neurocognitive conditions in 30% to 60% of exposed children. 

Hydroquinone: This skin-lightening ingredient may be tempting to use for dark spots but should be avoided due to its high absorption rate. It's best to steer clear to ensure your baby's safety.

Parabens: Found in various skincare products, parabens may interfere with fetal development. To avoid this risk, always check the labels and choose products that are paraben-free.

Phthalates: Phthalates may increase the risk of pregnancy loss and gestational diabetes. They are common in lotions, creams, and cosmetics and should be avoided.

Pregnancy-Friendly Skincare

While pregnancy requires some caution in skincare, there's no need to worry excessively. Most over-the-counter (OTC) skincare products are safe during pregnancy, except for a few specific ingredients. By being vigilant and reading labels, you can continue to maintain your glow and protect your baby. Here's a guide to pregnancy-friendly skincare:

Acne and hyperpigmentation: Acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid,  and glycolic acid are likely safe in the small amounts typically found in over-the-counter products. If you're experiencing breakouts or sudden hyperpigmentation, you may consider these ingredients as alternatives to retinoid-based products. 

Anti-aging: If anti-aging products are part of your usual routine, consider using topical antioxidants such as vitamin C during pregnancy. Vitamin C helps protect your skin and maintain collagen. Other beneficial topical antioxidants include vitamin E, green tea, and resveratrol.

Dry skin and stretch marks: Hormonal changes during pregnancy may lead to dry skin, and the skin's natural stretching can result in stretch marks. To alleviate both, focus on moisturizing products. Safe options include coconut oil, cocoa butter, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. While you may not be able to prevent stretch marks entirely, keeping the skin supple can make them less pronounced.

Sun protection: Sunscreen remains a vital part of skincare during pregnancy. Consistent use can help protect your skin from sun damage and prevent or alleviate the dark spots that may accompany pregnancy. 

Remember to always consult your OB-GYN and dermatologist to find the best solutions for your individual skin needs during pregnancy.

Can You Use Qyral Skincare Products While Pregnant?

Pregnancy is a time of unique skincare needs, and Qyral is here to support you on this journey. Whether you're an existing customer or new to our products, we can tailor skincare solutions to your specific situation.

Existing customers: Are you already part of the Qyral family and pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive? Be sure to let your Qyral doctor know. We'll adjust your custom formulation to match your new needs, making sure your skincare stays effective and safe during this exciting time in your life.

New customers: And if you're pregnant and not yet a Qyral customer? No problem! We welcome new customers who are trying to conceive, pregnant, or nursing. Just fill out our assessment and be sure to mention your specific situation. We'll create skincare products that ensure you feel supported and beautiful during this special time in your life.

With informed choices and professional guidance, you can enjoy healthy, radiant skin throughout your pregnancy and beyond. Your skin's needs may change during this unique time, and embracing a pregnancy-friendly skincare routine can help you feel confident and nourished every step of the way.