Pregnancy Skincare Routine: Ingredients to Embrace and Avoid

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) reveals that an average woman uses 12 different skincare and beauty products daily, exposing her to over a hundred ingredients. During pregnancy, it’s crucial to be extra cautious as these ingredients can penetrate the skin and potentially affect the baby.

Research has detected harmful chemicals like phthalates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances in the bodies of both men and women. These pollutants are known to have adverse health effects.

How to Pick Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Products:

• Check ingredient lists for harmful chemicals like retinoids, salicylic acid, and certain parabens.
• Opt for fragrance-free products or those with natural essential oils.
• Research brands that specialize in pregnancy-safe products.
• Consult with YUKA app, EWG database, ThinkDirty app, and INCIdecoder.

How To Have Healthy Skin While You Are Pregnant:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of structured water.
• Cleanse gently and moisturize regularly.
• Use sun protection to protect against UV rays.
• Avoid excessive exfoliation.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

How we picked the best pregnancy-safe skin care products:

• Reviewed ingredient lists for harmful chemicals.
• Considered brand reputation and customer reviews.
• Prioritized products with natural and organic ingredients.
• Consulted expert recommendations.

Best pregnancy-safe moisturizers:

• Brands that use natural and organic ingredients.
• Products free from harmful chemicals.
• Moisturizers with added sun protection.
• Hypoallergenic options.

Skin changes during pregnancy:

• Increased sensitivity.
• Changes in pigmentation, leading to dark spots.
• Stretch marks.
• Acne due to hormonal fluctuations.
• Increased oiliness or dryness.

Best pregnancy-safe acne treatments:

• Topical skincare that is 100% non-toxic and won’t strip the skin.
• Products with malic acid, seaweed, and glycolic acid.
• Natural remedies like colloidal clay, bentonite clay, and kaolin clay.
• Avoid treatments with salicylic acid and retinoids.

Choosing A Pregnancy-Safe Moisturizer – A Buying Guide:

• Prioritize products with a short ingredient list that you understand.
• Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
• Avoid products with fragrances and dyes cause they disrupt the endocrine system.
• Consider moisturizers with added sun protection.

How to shop for pregnancy-safe skin care:

• Start by reading product labels. Use YUKA or other apps to help.
• Research products and brands online.
• Consult with a dermatologist or obstetrician.
• Prioritize products with natural and organic ingredients.

When preparing for a baby, women often focus on diet and lifestyle changes to ensure a healthy pregnancy. But have you considered your skincare routine? Just as with food and skin changes, the products you apply to your skin can impact your health and that of your baby. Here’s a guide to creating a safe and effective pregnancy skincare routine.

Ingredients to Exclude from Your Pregnancy Skincare Routine

Retinoids (Retin-A, retinol, retinyl palmitate)

• Found in: Anti-aging moisturizers, acne treatments, pigment disorder treatments.
• What are they? Compounds from the vitamin A family that promote cell division and prevent collagen degradation.
• Risks: Excessive vitamin A can lead to birth defects and liver toxicity.
• Alternative: For acne, consider pregnancy-safe options like Seaflora’s Iridaea Purifying Facial Masque.

Salicylic acid (Hydroxy acids such as BHA and AHA)

• Found in: Acne treatments, anti-redness products, cleansers, toners, and anti-aging exfoliants.
• What is it? A moisture-enhancing compound related to aspirin.
• Risks: While topical use is less concerning than oral intake, it’s best to minimize exposure during pregnancy.
• Alternative: For anti-aging, switch to Seaflora’s anti-aging range, like the Sea Therapy Refining Facial Polish.

Other Ingredients to Limit or Avoid:

• Fragrance and Perfumes: Highly allergenic. Opt for fragrance-free products or those with natural essential oils.
• Parabens: Despite industry claims of safety in low amounts, it’s prudent to limit exposure. Always read product labels.
• Phthalates: These hormone-disrupting chemicals are often added to fragrances. Avoid products with added fragrance to reduce phthalate exposure.
• Petrochemicals: These are derived from petroleum and can include ingredients like mineral oil, paraffin, and petrolatum. There are concerns about their potential to cause illness, contain impurities and their environmental impact.Why avoid? Some petrochemicals can be occlusive, meaning they form a barrier on the skin, which might trap other harmful agents. Additionally, there are concerns about the purity of these ingredients, thier safety to human health and potential contamination with harmful compounds.
• Microplastics: These are tiny pieces of plastic often added to personal care products as exfoliating agents or for texture. They can be found in some scrubs, washes, moisturizers, and even toothpaste.Why avoid? Microplastics don’t biodegrade and can accumulate in the environment, posing a threat to marine life and the food chain. While the direct health implications for humans are still being researched, it’s a good idea to opt for products that are environmentally friendly. Additionally, there are concerns about microplastics’ potential to carry and release toxic and carcinogenic chemicals.

Crafting Your Pregnancy Skincare Routine

Choosing the right skincare products to use during pregnancy doesn’t have to be daunting. Armed with knowledge about which ingredients to avoid, you can easily curate a pregnancy skincare beauty routine that ensures both your and your baby’s well-being. Remember, self-care is essential, and with the right products, you won’t have to compromise on your skincare rituals.

We Highly Recommend, Prenatal Safe: Seaflora Organic Thalasso Skincare

When it comes to skincare during pregnancy, it’s important to choose products that are safe for both the mother and the skin barrier of the developing baby. Seaflora Skincare, a Canadian brand based in Sooke, B.C., offers a range of products that are not only safe for pregnant women but also provide numerous benefits for the skin. In this blog, we will explore why Seaflora Skincare is the best option for a pregnant skincare routine.

Safe for Pregnancy

Seaflora Skincare products are made with natural, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for pregnant women. The brand’s website states that their products are safe for use during pregnancy.

This is because Seaflora Skincare uses raw, wild, organic seaweeds as the base of their formulations, which are not dried, bleached, or powdered. The brand also avoids using harmful ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.

Benefits for the Skin

Seaflora Skincare products offer numerous benefits for the sensitive skin too, making them an excellent choice for a pregnant skincare routine. Some of the benefits of Seaflora Skincare products sensitive pregnancy skin include:

• Hydration: Seaflora Skincare products are rich in vitamins and minerals that help to hydrate the skin, leaving it soft and supple.
• Anti-aging: Seaflora Skincare products contain antioxidants that help to protect the skin from free radical damage, which can lead to premature aging and dry skin.
• Acne-fighting: Seaflora Skincare products contain natural ingredients that help to fight acne and reduce inflammation.
• Soothing: Seaflora Skincare products contain natural ingredients that help to soothe and calm the skin, making them ideal for women with sensitive skin.

Canadian-Made, Small Batch, Food Grade, Seaweed Skincare

Seaflora Skincare is a Canadian brand that manufactures their luxury seaweed skincare products in Sooke, B.C. Canada. They sustainably hand harvest their main ingredients steps from their manufacturing facility. By choosing Seaflora Skincare, pregnant women can support a small, family-owned and operated Canadian business.

Recommended by Experts

Seaflora products have been recommended by Board-certified Dermatologists, Aestheticians, and other experts in the skincare industry. Oresta Korbutiak, board certified dermatologist and the founder of Oresta Organic Skincare, has included Seaflora Skincare products in her list of favourite Canadian beauty products. The brand has also been featured in various publications, including Elle Canada,The Kit and beauty products have been featured on TV Series: Canada Over The Edge.

Prenatal Safe Skincare Routine

When it comes to skincare during pregnancy, it’s important to choose products that are safe for both the mother and the developing baby. Seaflora offers a range of products that are not only safe for pregnant women but also provide numerous benefits for the skin.

What’s different about their products is that seaweed is the main ingredient. Made with natural, non-toxic, food grade ingredients, they are recommended by experts in the skincare industry. Their products score 100/100 on YUKA app, yes, all of them!

Why Women Need to Detox Their Skincare and Personal Products During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time when women need to be extra careful about what they put in and on their bodies. Many women are aware of the importance of a healthy diet during pregnancy, but they may not realize that the products they use on their skin and hair, as well as their laundry detergent, can also have an impact on their developing baby.

The Dangers of Toxic Ingredients

Many skincare and personal and skin care, products contain toxic ingredients that can be harmful to both the mother and the developing baby. These ingredients can be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing a range of health problems. Some of the most common toxic ingredients found in personal and skin care, products include:

Parabens: These are preservatives that are commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products. They have been linked to hormone disruption and have been found in breast cancer tumors.

Phthalates: These are chemicals that are used to make plastics more flexible. They are also found in many personal skin care and products, including fragrances, hair sprays, and nail polishes. Phthalates have been linked to reproductive problems and developmental issues in children.

Fragrances: Many personal care products contain synthetic fragrances, which can contain hundreds of different chemicals. These chemicals can cause allergic reactions and have been linked to hormone disruption and other health problems.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): This is a foaming agent that is commonly used in shampoos, body washes, and toothpaste. SLS can cause skin irritation and has been linked to hormone disruption hormonal acne.

The Impact on the Developing Baby

When a pregnant woman uses products that contain toxic ingredients, these chemicals can cross the placenta and enter the developing baby’s bloodstream. This can have a range of negative effects on the baby’s health, including:

• Developmental problems: Exposure to toxic chemicals during pregnancy has been linked to developmental problems in children, including cognitive and behavioral issues.
• Birth defects: Some studies have suggested that exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects.
• Low birth weight: Exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy has been linked to low birth weight, which can increase the risk of health problems for the baby.

DIY Pregnancy-Safe Moisturizers

Cocoa Butter

Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, cocoa butter is perfect for preventing stretch marks and improving skin elasticity.

• Melt cocoa butter in a double boiler and let it cool down.
• Add a few drops of vitamin E oil and stir well.
• Store in a clean jar and use as needed.

Coconut Oil

Moisturizing, antifungal, and antibacterial, coconut oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used for body, face, and hair care.

• Mix coconut oil with a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil.
• Apply on damp skin and massage until fully absorbed.
• Use daily or whenever your skin needs extra love.

Shea Butter

Soft, creamy, and highly emollient, shea butter is a true dry skin- savior that can keep skin hydrated, itchiness, and inflammation in oily skin.

• Whip shea butter with a hand mixer until fluffy and smooth.
• Add a few drops of rosehip or avocado oil and mix well.
• Transfer to a jar and keep in a cool, dry place.

Beef Tallow

Beef tallow can be a good natural moisturizer for pregnant women due to its compatibility with our skin’s natural oils, its ability to provide adequate moisture for the skin, and its high nutrient content, including vitamins A, B12, D, E, K, and fatty acids that promote skin health.

• Select the grass fed Beef Tallow.
• Warm 1 tbsp of tallow on the stove on low heat for 1 min.
• Massage the tallow from head to toe.
• Store at room temperature in pantry.

Organic and Clean Options

Fortunately, there are many organic and clean options available for women who want to detox their skincare and personal products during pregnancy. These products are made with natural, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for both the mother and the developing baby. Here are some small, family-owned and operated Canadian brands that offer organic and clean options:

• Birch Babe Naturals: This brand offers a range of skincare and personal care products that are made with natural, non-toxic ingredients. Their products are free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.
• Wildcraft: This brand offers a range of skincare and personal care products that are made with organic, plant-based ingredients. Their products are free from synthetic fragrances, SLS, and other harmful chemicals.
• Province Apothecary: This brand offers a range of skincare and personal care products that are made with organic, non-toxic ingredients. Their products are free from synthetic fragrances, SLS, and other harmful chemicals.
• Sudsatorium: This brand offers a range of organic and vegan skincare and personal care products. Their products are free from synthetic fragrances, SLS, and other harmful chemicals.

Prenatal Safe Skin Care

During pregnancy, it is important for women to be mindful of the products they use on their skin and hair, as well as their laundry detergent. By choosing organic and clean options, women can detox their skincare and personal products and protect their skin conditions and health and the health of pregnancy skin and their baby.

Pregnancy Safe Ingredients to Look for:

Coconut Oil

• Locks in moisture and soothes dry, itchy skin.

Aloe Vera

• Cools and hydrates for instant relief from inflammation and irritation.

Hyaluronic Acid

• Keeps skin plump and moisturized for a youthful glow.

Vitamin E

• Provides intense hydration while protecting against free radicals.

Pregnancy and Sensitive Skin

Pregnant women can get sensitive skin due to hormonal changes and other factors. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make the skin more sensitive to contact with substances that might not normally the skin barrier or cause skin feeling or a reaction.

In fact, skin conditions that a woman had before pregnancy, such as eczema, may become worse. The reason may be that, our bodies are deficient in certain essential nutrients, and during pregnancy your body needs even more nutrition. Nutritional deficiencies seem to be the root of most ailments.

Pregnancy Skin Care Routine to Brighten Uneven Skin Tone

Here is a carefully curated non-toxic, pregnancy-safe 7-step skincare routine using Seaflora Skincare products to brighten skin:

Cleanse: Start by cleansing your face with Seaflora Skincare’s Sea Foam Cleansing Concentrate. This gentle cleanser is formulated with organic seaweed and botanical extracts to remove impurities and brighten the skin.

Tone: After cleansing, apply Seaflora Skincare’s Sea Splash Toning Essence to your face. This toner is made with organic seaweed and aloe vera to hydrate and soothe the skin.

Serum: Next, apply Seaflora Skincare’s Sea Therapy Serum to your face. This serum is formulated with organic seaweed and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump the skin.

Eye Cream: Gently pat Seaflora Skincare’s Eye Serum on dry skin around your eyes to reduce puffiness and dark circles. This eye serum is made with organic seaweed and cucumber extract to soothe and hydrate the delicate dry skin around the eyes.

Moisturize: Apply non-toxic Seabright Moisturizer to your face, neck and décolletage. This moisturizer is made with organic seaweed, Vitamin C, hydroxyresveratrol, niacinamide, and shea butter to hydrate and nourish the skin.

Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays with Natural Sun Shield Facial Moisturizer. This mineral-based sunscreen is made with organic seaweed and provides broad-spectrum protection.

Exfoliate: Once a week, use Potent Sea Kelp Exfoliator to exfoliate your skin. This scrub is made with organic seaweed and sea salt to gently remove dead skin cells and reveal brighter, smoother skin.

During pregnancy it is normal to discover new fine lines and develop more sensitive skin. Your skin texture can change, and is best addressed by using a clean Vitamin C serum that will help maintain your skin barrier and improve skin texture. Choosing zinc oxide mixed into your moisturizer can reduce skin pigmentation without increased risk of pregnancy acne. Combination skin and other skin concerns are best addressed with a gentle moisturizer and pregnancy safe sunscreen.

The Difference Between Mass-Produced Toxic Skincare and High-End Natural Skincare

In the vast world of skincare, consumers are often faced with a dizzying array of choices. From the shelves of drugstores filled with mass-produced brands to the exclusive counters of luxury stores showcasing high-end products, the options seem endless. But what truly differentiates these products? Let’s delve deeper into the world of skincare to understand the distinctions.

1. Ingredients: The Heart of Skincare

High-End Skincare: These products are often formulated with superior quality ingredients. Luxury brands invest significantly in research, aiming to harness the power of natural and potent ingredients that promise better results for the skin.

Mass-Produced Skincare: While there are exceptions, many drugstore brands might incorporate ingredients that are harsher on the skin, potentially leading to inflammation and irritation.

2. Efficacy: Does Price Determine Effectiveness?

Contrary to popular belief, the price tag isn’t always an indicator of a product’s efficacy. Both luxury and affordable products can share similar active ingredients. However, high-end products might boast a higher concentration of these potent active ingredients together, enhancing their effectiveness. Small brands must compete with billion dollar conglomerates who have endless marketing budgets, to compete their products must deliver visible results!

“Skin Care is the Wild West of Commerce. I call it the industry of smoke and mirrors! So tired of toxic skin care ingredients and products being marketed as safe and effective. It’s really hard for little brands like ours to get noticed.” – Laura R., Wild Hill Organic Botanicals

3. Marketing and Presentation: The Allure of Luxury

High-End Brands: While they might not have the same marketing budget, many small brands have built trust over the years through consistent quality. They rely mostly on word-of-mouth marketing and targeting niche markets.

Mass-Produced Brands: These companies allocate substantial budgets to marketing, aiming to captivate the largest market share. The allure of affordability, coupled with sophisticated packaging or innovative dispensing mechanisms, can make the user experience feel uniquely special.

Toxic Ingredients in Everyday Products: A Cause for Concern

Alarmingly, certain toxic ingredients, such as “scent boosters” in laundry products or “aspartame” in children’s gum, find their way into our daily lives. This is often due to gaps in regulation and oversight by agencies like the FDA. It’s crucial to note that the FDA primarily recognizes two categories: cosmetic and pharmaceutical grade. The term “cosmeceutical” doesn’t exist under FDA regulations, leading to potential ambiguities in product classifications.

Prenatal Vitamins: Nourishing the Future

Pregnancy is a transformative phase, demanding extra care and attention to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

These vitamins play a pivotal role in preventing birth defects, fostering healthy fetal development, and minimizing the risk of complications during pregnancy. Moreover, they ensure that the expecting mother receives all the vital nutrients to maintain her health.

Bioavailability: Not Just What You Take, But What You Absorb

The term “bioavailability” denotes the proportion of a nutrient that, once ingested, gets absorbed and utilized by the body. It’s essential to choose prenatal vitamins with high bioavailability to ensure maximum benefit.

Bioavailable Seaweed vs. Petroleum-Based Vitamins:

Seaweed, a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals, might be a more holistic choice compared to petroleum-derived vitamins. Rich in vital nutrients like iodine, iron, and calcium, seaweed ensures that both the mother and the baby receive optimal nourishment.

In conclusion, whether it’s choosing the right skincare product to treat acne, or the best prenatal vitamins, informed decisions based on research and understanding can lead to better outcomes. Always prioritize quality and efficacy over brand names or price tags.

Skin Care While Breastfeeding

During pregnancy and while breastfeeding, it’s important to be mindful of the skincare products you use, as certain ingredients can be harmful to both you and your baby. Opting for non-toxic, baby-safe skincare can help protect your little one while still allowing you to care for your skin. Here are some key points to consider:

Skincare Ingredients to Avoid While Breastfeeding:

Retinol: This derivative of vitamin A, should be avoided while breastfeeding, as it can be absorbed through the skin and potentially harm your baby

• Seaflora Skincare products do not contain retinol, making them a safe choice for expectant and nursing mothers.

Hydroquinone: Although the safety of hydroquinone during pregnancy is still being studied, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid this skin lightening ingredient

• Seaflora Skincare products do not contain hydroquinone, ensuring the safety of both you and your baby.

The Importance of Non-Toxic Skincare:

Chemicals in skincare products can enter your bloodstream and potentially affect your baby, so it’s crucial to choose non-toxic options during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• Seaflora Skincare products are made with organic seaweed and botanical extracts, providing a safe and effective solution for your skincare needs.

Some skincare ingredients may not work as well during pregnancy due to changes in your immune system and increased skin sensitivity

• Seaflora Skincare products are designed to address common skin concerns while still being gentle and effective for expectant and nursing mothers.

Benefits of Seaflora Skincare for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Seaflora Skincare products are formulated with organic seaweed, which is rich in essential nutrients and minerals that can help nourish and brighten your skin.
• The brand’s commitment to using clean, non-toxic ingredients ensures the safety of both you and your baby, making it an ideal choice for pregnancy and breastfeeding skincare.
• Seaflora Skincare offers a range of products that can address common skin concerns during pregnancy and breastfeeding, such as acne, pigmentation, sensitivity, and anti-aging

By choosing these products, you can maintain a healthy and radiant complexion while prioritizing the well-being of your little one.

Seaflora

See Full Bio