5 beauty ingredients pregnant women should avoid and pay attention to choosing safe skin care cosmetics

The following ingredients in cosmetics, pregnant women should avoid to protect the safety of both mother and child.

Retinol

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that protects the skin from aging problems. However, pregnant women need to stay away from cosmetics containing this active ingredient.‏

Using retinoids (derivatives of vitamin A) during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects in the fetus. Therefore, this chemical is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy.

‏Chemical Sunscreen

‏Pregnant women should not use sunscreens with ingredients such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, homosalate, methyl anthranilate, etc. These active ingredients can cause hormonal disturbances, leading to neurological problems. , attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obesity in children. Women should choose sunscreen with natural ingredients, it is best to use the type recommended by the manufacturer that can be used by pregnant women.

Fragrance in cosmetics

Perfume is a typical example for a group of scented cosmetics, which are often made up of various harmful chemicals such as: Parabens, benzene derivatives, aldehydes... Even though only used for a short time, a small amount Very little perfume can still cause irritation and redness on the exposed skin. 

BPA

BPA is an amorphous plastic that serves as a base for cosmetics presented in the form of a cream. BPA can enter the body even for external use. The dangers of BPA are endocrine disruption, increased risk of breast and prostate cancer, infertility, heart disease, diabetes.

Hydroquinone‏

Hydroquinone is a familiar ingredient in many skin-whitening cosmetics, improving dark spots. Hydroquinone may pose a risk to an unborn baby. Therefore, this is one of the cosmetic ingredients pregnant women should avoid.

Safe skin care cosmetic options for pregnant women

Glycolic and azelaic acids are safe ingredients to treat acne during pregnancy. However, before using, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist to choose the right product and concentration.

Products containing vitamin C can help promote collagen production to tighten skin and brighten hyperpigmented skin, safe during pregnancy.

- Other safe antioxidants can be used such as vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin B3, green tea ...

Use a physical sunscreen with ingredients including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which deflect UV rays before they reach your skin. Note that you should choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection, and an SPF of 30 or higher.