Brilio.net - Maintaining healthy skin during pregnancy is a priority for many women. However, not all skincare products that are commonly used before pregnancy are safe to use during pregnancy. At this time, the body experiences various hormonal changes that can make the skin more sensitive and prone to irritation or other problems. Therefore, the selection of skincare for pregnant women must be done very carefully.
Pregnant women's skincare should focus on products that have safe and clinically tested ingredients . Some active ingredients commonly found in skincare, such as retinoids, salicylic acid, and hydroquinone, should be avoided because they can pose a risk to the health of the fetus. Instead, pregnant women are advised to choose products that contain natural ingredients such as aloe vera, almond oil, and shea butter which are gentler and safer for the skin.
In addition, pregnant women also need to ensure that the products used have been approved by health regulatory bodies such as the FDA or BPOM, and have a label indicating that the product has been dermatologically tested. It is also important to avoid products that contain synthetic fragrances, parabens, and phthalates that can trigger irritation or other health problems.
Choosing the right skincare during pregnancy is not only about maintaining appearance, but also protecting the health of the mother and fetus . Well, here are seven ways to check whether skincare is safe for pregnant women, as summarized by briliobeauty.net from various sources, Tuesday (8/27).
1. Check the active ingredient content.
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The first thing to pay attention to is the active ingredients in skincare products. Some ingredients to avoid during pregnancy include retinoids, high doses of salicylic acid, and hydroquinone. Retinoids, which are often found in anti-aging products, can increase the risk of birth defects. Salicylic acid in high concentrations can also potentially harm the fetus. Therefore, choose products with safer active ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid.
2. Find out from trusted sources.
Getting information from credible sources is essential. Sites like Healthline, the American Pregnancy Association, and the Mayo Clinic provide comprehensive guides on pregnancy skincare products. Additionally, consulting with an obstetrician or dermatologist is also highly recommended. They can provide product recommendations that are appropriate for your skin condition and specific needs during pregnancy.
3. Choose products that have been clinically tested.
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Skincare products that are safe for pregnant women have usually gone through clinical trials and received approval from related institutions such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Products labeled "hypoallergenic," "non-comedogenic," and "dermatologically tested" are usually safer to use. Also make sure the product is free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances that can trigger irritation or other health problems.
4. Use products that are minimalist in content.
Pregnant women's skincare should be simple and free from chemicals. The fewer ingredients used, the less likely there is to be an allergic reaction or risk to the fetus. Choose products that are formulated with natural ingredients and are free from harmful additives. Examples of safe natural ingredients include aloe vera, almond oil, and shea butter.
5. Check the product label carefully.
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Always read product labels carefully before purchasing. Make sure the product does not contain harmful ingredients such as mercury, hydroquinone, or formaldehyde. Also, look for other safety signs such as organic certification or a "cruelty-free" label. Products with these labels are usually safer and of higher quality.
6. Avoid products with high alcohol content.
Alcohol is often used in skincare as a preservative or solvent, but it can dry out and irritate the skin, especially in pregnant women. Products with high alcohol content can also penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, which may have negative effects on the fetus. Instead, choose products with natural preservatives such as rosemary extract or vitamin E.
7. Consult an expert before using a new product.
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Lastly, always consult an expert before trying new skincare products during pregnancy. An obstetrician or dermatologist can assess the safety of the product and provide advice that is appropriate for your skin condition and pregnancy. This is an important step to ensure that the products used are truly safe and do not pose a risk to the health of the pregnant mother and baby.