Skin care during pregnancy

---

During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes several hormonal changes. These changes sometimes take a toll on the skin as well. While most women may not face any skin-related concerns, a few may have minor issues. The skincare routine that one follows during pregnancy should be arrived at by consultation with a skin expert.

The golden rule of getting adequate sleep and staying hydrated applies to this time as well. Sleeping for 7-8 hrs is essential to help your skin regenerate and prevent dark circles from forming. Keeping your hydration level adequate by adequate intake of water, coconut water, and soups helps the skin to detoxify.

1. Cleanser, moisturization, and sunscreen: Mild, soap-free, glycerine based cleaners are ideal to use during pregnancy. This is because the skin often tends to get a bit dry, and harsh soaps may further worsen it.

The use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is a must during pregnancy. The skin becomes more sensitive to the sunlight's ultraviolet radiation, the occurrence of pigmented related issues more common. A sunscreen containing physical blockers like zinc oxide, titanium oxide, etc. is ideal. Some of the chemical-based sunscreens like oxybenzone are best avoided as they may work as endocrine disruptors.

Moisturization is an integral part of the skincare routine during pregnancy. Adequate moisturization at least twice a day is a "must" and should not be neglected. Ideal product to use is one which is free from added color and fragrance as such a composition would have minimum chemicals. Good moisturizers to use during pregnancy are shea butter, coconut oil, argan oil, etc.

1. Exfoliate skin fortnightly: regular mild exfoliation is necessary to unclog the pores and remove dead cells. This allows for better rejuvenation of the skin, allowing it to renew itself. Oatmeal can act as an excellent exfoliator for those suffering from dry skin issues.
2. Vitamin C serum: Vitamin C works as an antioxidant and also helps in skin firming. It increases the collagen formation keeping skin firm and pores under check. Works also as a skin brightening agent.
3. Are facials safe during pregnancy? : While one often wants to pamper the skin with a good facial, few precautions must always be kept. The use of bleach and harmful chemicals on the face should be strictly avoided. Similarly, the use of heat/electric current on the front is also strictly prohibited. Indulging in a gentle doctor-assisted treatment which is deeply hydrating does much good to the skin.
4. Shaving is the safest bet: for the concern of unwanted hair, shaving is the best option. Waxing the hair may make the skin sensitive. Also, worries of ingrown hair make waxing an undesirable variant. Chemical depilatory creams may prove to be harmful during pregnancy.

Commonly used products that have to be avoided during this time:

Some of the commonly available over the counter products that are best if not used during pregnancy are listed below. All efforts should be made to discontinue these products and replace them with herbal/chemical-free alternatives.

1. Deodorant: most of these contain aluminum chloride, which carries the risk of cancer.
2. Essential oils: thyme and juniper oil are best avoided during this time. Tangerine, Chamomile, and peppermint are considered safer and can be used in moderation.
3. Hair straightening products: formaldehyde is the chemical most often contained in these products. This chemical use during pregnancy is not considered safe and hence should be avoided.

Home remedies that are safe to use:

Home remedies are more reliable and effective alternates that one can restore during pregnancy time. The ingredients can be chosen in a way as to address a particular concern.

1. Face pack: Yogurt, oatmeal, and honey make a useful face pack, especially when dealing with skin dryness. It can be left in for 10-15 mines and washed with normal to cold water. It's hydrating and adds shine to the skin.
2. Dark spots: raw milk, potato/tomato pulp, cucumber juice, turmeric, etc. are easy to procure home remedies for dark spots on the face. These can be mixed with gram flour to make a paste, which is easy to apply

One needs to be a little careful when using over the counter preparations, as these often contain harmful chemicals. An appointment with an expert can help you in sorting out your daily skincare regimen.