During pregnancy, pregnant women will experience various changes. Skin changes are one of them. This is due to changes in hormone levels, the cardiovascular system (including blood circulation), and immune function during pregnancy.
Indeed, complaints such as dry skin or acne are common during pregnancy. But of course pregnant women are confused, what skincare products are allowed during pregnancy.
As we know, there are several ingredients in general beauty, cosmetic, and skincare products that should be avoided during pregnancy. The FDA has the latest list and categorization of ingredients used in beauty and cosmetic products.
Many of these ingredients have been shown to cause dangerous health damage or pose health risks to pregnant women and their unborn babies. What are they? Let’s see the information below.
1. Retin-A, retinol, and retinyl palmitate
This vitamin A derivative can cause dangerous birth defects. Although it is important to have enough vitamin A for the development of the baby, it is best to avoid this vitamin A derivative.
Quoting the Womens Care page, this content has a negative impact on the development of the fetus in the womb. In addition, there are also tazorac and accutane which are also vitamin A derivatives. Although both are in prescription drugs, they are prohibited for use by pregnant women.
2. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid
Acne during pregnancy is quite common, but pregnant women must choose acne creams carefully. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are ingredients that should be avoided during pregnancy.
Many common acne creams contain a combination of these acids to treat acne, so look for a product that uses just one of these acne-fighting ingredients.
3. Hydroquinone
It may be tempting to use this common skin lightener during pregnancy to treat melasma, or skin pigmentation, also known as the “mask of pregnancy.”
But avoid it! The FDA classifies hydroquinone as category C because it is absorbed at a higher rate than other topical chemicals, making it more likely to enter the bloodstream in larger amounts and affect your unborn baby.
4. Phthalates
It is one of the compounds often found in cosmetic products. Its function is to help the product adhere to the skin faster. Phthalates are also used in products such as nail polish (to prevent cracking), hair spray (to increase hair flexibility), and fragrances (to extend the durability of the aroma).
However, this chemical needs to be avoided by pregnant women because it can increase the risk of birth defects in the fetus and premature birth.
5. Formaldehyde
This ingredient has been linked to fertility problems and miscarriage. Formaldehyde is not currently listed by the FDA, but many doctors recommend that women limit their exposure.
Use nail polish that is labeled “3-Free” or “5-Free.” If you visit a hair or nail salon, talk to your stylist about the products they use and make sure they do not contain formaldehyde.
Other ingredients to avoid
Apart from those mentioned above, there are still several other skincare ingredients that pregnant women need to avoid, including:
– Oxybenzone, octocrylene, and octinoxate, which are often used in chemical sunscreen products.
– Diethanolamine (DEA), a compound often found in shampoos, conditioners, and certain skin care products
– Parabens, including propylparaben, butylparaben, isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben, and methylparaben, which are used as preservatives in some skin care products
– Triclosan, which is often used in toothpaste, cosmetics, soaps, and moisturizing lotions
Remember, talk to your doctor about any products you are considering using during pregnancy.
If you want to learn more about what beauty products and skincare ingredients to avoid during pregnancy, ask your doctor directly.