5 cosmetic ingredients that should not be used during pregnancy

During pregnancy, care should be taken when using cosmetics to avoid negative effects on the health of both mother and baby. Here are skin care ingredients that should not be used during pregnancy and safe alternatives to help you overcome uncomfortable skin conditions you may encounter.

‏1. Cosmetic ingredients that should not be used during pregnancy

"Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding affect skin function," says Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. This makes the skin more susceptible to inflammation, leading to worsening skin conditions such as acne, eczema or psoriasis. When treating or taking care of your skin during pregnancy, you need to be aware of certain special ingredients. especially since they can be harmful to both mother and baby".‏

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1.1 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.‏

Research has found that the use of retinoids (derivatives of vitamin A) during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects in the fetus. Therefore, this chemical is generally not recommended to use during pregnancy.‏

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1.2 Chemical

‏Pregnant women should not use sunscreens with ingredients such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, homosalate, methyl anthranilate… According to research, these active ingredients can be hormonal disruptors, leading to neurological problems, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obesity in children.‏

To protect your skin against sun damage, you should use a physical sunscreen. In addition, you can choose a sunscreen with natural ingredients, it is best to use the type recommended by the manufacturer that can be used by pregnant women.‏

‏Some skin care ingredients can be harmful to both mother and baby.‏

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1.3 Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic

During pregnancy, women often experience hormone changes and increased androgen production that causes acne -prone skin . However, in popular acne products often encounter the ingredient benzoyl peroxide - which can have an adverse effect on the fetus. It is best to see a dermatologist for the right treatment.‏

Besides, salicylic acid is a substance found in facial cleansers or exfoliating products for pregnant women and has a good acne treatment effect. However, if you abuse these cosmetics, it can negatively affect the development of the fetus.

‏Instead, you can completely replace it with milder acidic products that are both cleansing and safe for pregnant women such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid...‏

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1.4 Hydroquinone‏

Hydroquinone is a familiar ingredient in many skin-whitening cosmetics, improving dark spots.

According to the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration), hydroquinone may pose a risk to an unborn baby. Therefore, this is one of the cosmetic ingredients pregnant women should avoid.

1.5 Parabens and Phthalates

Parabens are preservatives commonly used to prevent mold and bacteria from growing in moisturizers, shampoos, soaps, and makeup. Meanwhile, Phthalates are endocrine disrupting chemicals found in many beauty and personal products, especially those containing fragrance.‏

The use of cosmetics containing these two ingredients during pregnancy can affect the development of the fetus. Therefore, it is best for pregnant women to avoid.‏

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2. Safe care options for pregnant women‏

‏Here are some alternatives so you can safely overcome common skin problems during pregnancy.‏

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2.1 Acne and hyperpigmentation

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), 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.‏

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2.2 Dry

‏In addition to drinking plenty of water, moisturizing products with coconut oil , cocoa butter, peptides, and hyaluronic acid (HA) can effectively improve hydration.

‏ 2.3 Anti- aging

Products containing vitamin C can help promote collagen production to tighten skin and lighten hyperpigmented skin, safe during pregnancy. In addition, other safe antioxidants can be used such as vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin B3, green tea...‏

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2.4 Sunscreen

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.