To our lovely mothers-to-be! 🤰

We understand that pregnancy is a very special time.☺️  It’s important to consider what ingredients you’re consuming as well as applying. To help keep your little baby as healthy as possible, we created a list of common ingredients in skincare products that you should avoid. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines and everyone’s circumstances differ. Please, consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns!

So, without further ado, here is a quick list of some of the common ingredients you should avoid when you’re expecting! 👶🏼 🍼

• Hydroquinone

Avoid Hydroquinone during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is a skin-brightening agent that can be found in some brightening serums and is usually used to treat dark spots.

• Benzoyl Peroxide

A common ingredient that will help treat acne. This is okay to use in low concentrations but consult your doctor first.

• BHA/Salicylic Acid

Or Beta Hydroxy Acid. This is fine to use topically in low concentrations as well. Do not take Salicylic Acid orally during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• Retinoids /Vitamin A Derived

Avoid prescriptions or over-the-counter vitamin A-derived medications like Tazorac or the now discontinued Accutane. According to the American Pregnancy Association, it may cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Retin- A in low doses can be used but consult your doctor before continuing application.

• Certain Sunscreen Formulas/Chemical Sunscreens

When you’re pregnant, your skin is extra sensitive. Discoloration can happen easily so it’s important to remain under the shade as much as possible. Try switching to a mineral sunscreen (ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium oxide) to protect your skin from the sun. Although there is no strong clinical evidence of the health risks, a small percentage of chemical sunscreens can be absorbed into the bloodstream. The FDA states that there is no evidence of health risks but to be cautious, you may use mineral sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and titanium oxide. Zinc oxide and titanium oxide, however, are generally accepted as safe and effective (GRASE) by the FDA for use in sunscreens.

• Tetracycline

This antibiotic is taken orally to help treat acne. This should not be taken during pregnancy unless recommended by your health care provider.

• Essential Oils

There is a mix of essential oils that are okay to use while your pregnant and there are some that should be avoided.  According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy , some of the ones that should be avoided are Aniseed, Fennel, Basil (Estragole CT), Birch, Hyssop, Mugwort, Pennyroyal, Camphor, Sage, Wintergreen, Wormwood. Always consult your doctor before using essential oils topically and/or for aromatherapy.

• Parabens

A common preservative in skincare and healthcare products. The FDA states that studies have not definitively proven that parabens harm the baby’s health but parabens can be absorbed through the skin, enter your bloodstream and may affect your baby through there. Many beauty and skincare products state that an item is paraben free on the packaging. To be extra cautious, read the ingredient list on your beauty products and consult your doctor.

Overall, even though some of these may be okay to take in small doses, it is always best to consult your doctor. And even if you plan to change your beauty routine to more natural or safer products, always talk to your doctor first before adding anything new. We hope this helped! Thanks for reading!

Love,

FaceTory 💝