How To Choose Moisturizer During Pregnancy?

Dry Skin

Dry skin during pregnancy is a common issue.  It looks dull and even itchy. With such skin, you need to lock in the moisturizer and retain it for at least a few hours. Moisturizing creams are thicker than lotions and for dry skin, you need something thicker and long-lasting. 

If you live in a humid area, you may want to opt for a light moisturizer during the day and a heavier or creamier one for the night. If needed, you can reapply the light moisturizer during the day rather than overload, your skin in hot and humid weather.

Darkening Skin

Pregnancy can cause a lot of skin pigmentation and cause the skin to darken in certain areas. The drier the skin is, the easier it can darken or get damaged by the sun. Look for a moisturizer with sun protection. Even if you are not stepping out into the sun, you need to protect your skin from UV damage.

Acne-Prone Skin

Whether your skin is already acne-prone or is due to pregnancy, you need a moisturizer with medical properties that target acne. Look for a moisturizer that is non-comedogenic in nature. The product should not clog your pores as it will only worsen the acne.

Consulting a professional dermatologist is a good idea if you are breaking out on various parts of your body. Pregnancy can sometimes make it worse and only a professional can nail the problem and give you the right solution here.

Sensitive Skin

You need to be careful about the products you choose for sensitive skin. Chances are that the skin is more sensitive now during pregnancy. Do not choose moisturizers with strong ingredients that can cause any type of reaction in the body.

Opt for a hypoallergenic moisturizer, which is fragrance-free. Manufacturers use various ingredients to infuse fragrances, which may not suit sensitive skin. The lesser the ingredients, the better it can be for your sensitive skin.

How To Check If Moisturizers Are Safe?

Pregnancy can make the skin very sensitive. One needs to be very careful about what they use on their skin when they are pregnant. The skin tends to absorb what is applied to it. This can reach the fetus and cause harm. This is why it is very important to check the safety of the product before using it.

Here are a few ways in which you can ensure the safety of the moisturizer before you can start using it on your pregnant skin.

• Ingredients 

The first place to start is the back of the product. Check the list of ingredients used. See if something stands out and read up on it. If you are allergic to some ingredients, check for those. You can always do research online and find which ingredients are harmful to pregnancy. Choose a product that does not use those ingredients.

• Anti-Wrinkle Ingredients

Many moisturizers use retinoids or similar ingredients to make them anti-wrinkle. Retinoids are strong and not recommended during pregnancy. Check the ingredient list carefully to ensure the product does not contain retinoids.

• Chemicals To Watch Out For

Apart from retinoids, there are many other chemicals you need to avoid during pregnancy. Some of them are:

• Tazorac
• Accutane
• Benzoyl Peroxide
• Salicylic Acids
• Essential Oils
• Hydroquinone
• Aluminum Chloride
• Formaldehyde
• Chemical Sunscreens
• Tetracycline
• Dihydroxyacetone

Benefits Of Moisturizer During Pregnancy

Dermatologists recommend regular use of moisturizer, especially right after a shower. During pregnancy, you need to take a little extra care of that skin. Some of the benefits of doing so are:

1. Moisturizers keep your skin replenished and well-nourished.
2. Can reduce the occurrence of stretch marks.
3. Can reduce an itchy feeling and prevent you from scratching too much.
4. The perfect way to self-care can leave you feeling good and happy.
5. Following a good skincare ritual during pregnancy can make it easier to continue after your little bundle of joy arrives and takes away all your time and attention.

Tips To Choose The Right Moisturizer

Choosing the right moisturizer can be tricky, especially if you are pregnant. Here are a few tips to help you find the right product:

• Sun Protection

Always pick a moisturizer that includes sunscreen. Dermatologists recommend protecting your skin from the sun at all times. Choosing a moisturizer with sunscreen makes the whole thing a lot easier. You can use just one product and be done with it. There is no need to bend down multiple times with that pregnant belly.

• Stretch Marks

Many creams are specifically formulated for pregnancy skin, which targets the biggest skin-related concern – stretch marks. Stretch marks cannot be completely avoided with the use of moisturizers, but using a good formula can keep your skin well-nourished and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

• Patch Test

Always do a patch test when you are trying a new moisturizer or cream. You can use it on your arm and wait for a couple of days to see if your skin does not react to it. Once the product passes this test, you can use them regularly.

• Small Size

If you are trying a new moisturizer, the smallest pack is available. This way, you can test skin sensitivity and also know if it suits your needs. By buying small or travel packs, you can reduce a lot of wastage.

• Seek Professional Help

If you have had a bad experience with moisturizers or if your pregnancy skin seems to be reacting to almost anything and everything, consult a dermatologist. Your skin might need extra attention and a carefully formulated recipe. A professional will be able to give you many options to choose from.

Top 6 Brands Of Moisturizer For Pregnant Women

You may effectively treat irritating skin changes during pregnancy by using the finest pregnancy-safe face moisturizer. We’ve put up a list of the top six moisturizers for pregnant women.

1. The Moms Co

Toxin-free, all-natural lotion including components such as cocoa butter, shea butter, Vitamin E, and seabuckthorn oil, to mention a few. Their motto is “Love Without Compromise,” which is reflected in their products, which are all pregnancy safe and address all of the major skin issues. This product is also cruelty-free since it is vegan.

2. Mylo

The Mylo Care Vitamin C Moisturizer does more than just keep the skin from drying out; it also makes it more supple, vibrant, and smooth. Ingredients including vitamin c, hyaluronic acid, kokum butter, sugarcane extract, green tea, aloe vera, orange, and lemon work together to brighten and rejuvenate your skin.

3. Bio-oil

Bio-Oil has been independently tested and confirmed to be non-comedogenic, which means it does not cause acne or spots. It may be used on every skin type at any age, but it is particularly beneficial for pregnant women.

4. Palmers

Palmer’s Cocoa butter is a wonderful moisturizer that is also a safe and natural solution for skin that has been injured or that need deep hydration.

5. Mamaearth

Mother earth moisturizer aids in the retention of skin’s natural moisture, leaving it smooth and elastic. Toxins, silicone, parabens, SLS, and other dangerous ingredients are not included in the non-greasy lotion.

6. Himalaya

Himalaya moisturizer nourishes and protects your skin against dryness while being non-greasy and light enough to be used for extended periods of time. The unique combination of nutrients gathered from nature’s lap profoundly nourishes your skin while efficiently protecting it from dryness.