What Skin Treatments Are Safe During Pregnancy?

As anyone who has been pregnant knows, there are a lot of things you have to give up during pregnancy, from sushi to morning runs. But did you know there are certain treatments and even products you will need to avoid during your pregnancy? During pregnancy, it’s important to be extra careful with the products you use on your skin. Many cosmetics and treatments are safe for pregnant women, but some can pose risks to both mother and child!

In honour of all expecting mothers, we asked our lead clinician, Channa (who is also expecting), for her adjusted skin care and treatment routines.

Skin Changes During Pregnancy

A mother’s body undergoes many changes during pregnancy as it prepares to bring new life into the world. One of the most noticeable changes is how their skin looks and feels. The increased levels of hormones in her body can cause a variety of skin changes, including:

Melasma and hyperpigmentation: Due to the increase in hormones, specifically estrogen, many women may notice new development or an increase in Melasma or Hyperpigmentation. You may also notice other areas of the body such as the nipples, areola, and linea alba. This is due to an increase in pigment-producing cells in the skin.

Stretch marks: small tears in the skin that happen when it stretches too far. They usually appear on the belly, breasts, hips, and buttocks.

Acne: caused by an increase in oil production in the skin. This can happen even if a woman has never had acne before.

Spider veins: small red or purple veins that can appear on the face, neck, and chest. They are caused by increased blood flow in the vessels.

Linea nigra: dark line that runs from the belly button to the pubic bone. It is caused by an increase in melanin in the skin. 

Treatments

Even though injectable procedures can’t be done during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, you can still pamper your skin with:

HydraFacial 

Hydrafacial is a safe and gentle treatment that can be performed during pregnancy. The procedure uses a combination of water, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid to deeply cleanse and hydrate the skin. There are no harsh chemicals or abrasive exfoliants, making it a safe option for expectant mothers. In addition, the hydrating effects of HydraFacial can help combat the dryness and sensitivity that is often experienced during pregnancy. 

AquaGold with PRP

Those who are pregnant often want to know if they can still enjoy the benefits of AquaGold with PRP injections. After all, who doesn’t want to look their best during pregnancy? The good news is that AquaGold with PRP is entirely safe for pregnant women. In fact, many of our clients find that their skin looks even better after pregnancy, thanks to the improved circulation and collagen production that AquaGold with PRP promotes!

Renew 30 Chemical Peels 

Renew 30 peels use a gentle Glycolic Acid solution to exfoliate the skin, revealing a brighter, more youthful complexion. Glycolic Acid is considered safe for use during pregnancy, and the Renew 30 peel has a low concentration of this ingredient. As such, it is unlikely to cause any harm. 

Dermaplaning 

Dermaplaning is a type of exfoliation involving a sharp blade to remove dead skin cells and vellus hair from the face. The treatment can leave the skin feeling softer and smoother, and it can also help improve the appearance of acne scars and fine lines to really let your pregnant glow shine. Dermaplaning is generally considered safe for pregnant women, as long as it is performed by a trained professional (like us!) 

Unsafe Treatments to Avoid

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be a time of significant changes for your skin. Many pregnant women experience skin problems such as dark patches, stretch marks, and acne. While there are a number of treatments available to address these issues, many of them are not safe for use during pregnancy. This can include: 

Microdermabrasion can lead to irritation, breakouts and scarring as your skin is more sensitive during the nine months of your pregnancy. 

Retinoids, as they are made from vitamin A, can cause developmental problems in the baby. Even if you are trying to get pregnant, many practitioners will ask you to discontinue any retinoid treatments! 

You should always be open about your pregnancy during your consultation when it comes to chemical peels, as it can harm your ultra-sensitive skin. If you are typically one to get these treatments, we are happy to speak to you about alternative treatments you can safely take during pre-and post-partum. 

Tips on Skin Treatments While Pregnant

When it comes to skincare, there are a few extra considerations to consider if you’re pregnant. Many women find that their skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, and certain treatments may not be suitable. However, there are still plenty of options for keeping your skin looking its best. Here are a few tips on getting skin treatments while pregnant:

Be open to your esthetician about your pregnancy. They can advise you on what’s safe to use and what to avoid.

Stick to gentle cleansers and moisturizers. It’s best to avoid anything with harsh chemicals or fragrances.

Be careful with exfoliants. Pregnancy can cause your skin to thin, making you more susceptible to irritation. Exfoliate gently, and make sure you moisturize well afterwards.

Avoid sun exposure. Pregnant women are more vulnerable to sun damage, so it’s important to protect your skin when you’re outdoors. Wear sunscreen and stay in the shade as much as possible.

Skin Care During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding 

You will have to adjust your normal skin care regimens to omit certain ingredients during pregnancy. With pregnancy, most products are safe to use, with just a few ingredients patients will have to avoid:

1. Retinol
2. Salicylic Acid
3. Hydroquinone

Products containing the above-listed ingredients are best avoided during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Products Channa has discontinued personally due to pregnancy:

1. Zo exfoliating cleanser
2. Zo exfoliating polish
3. Blemish and age serum
4. Zo wrinkle and texture repair (retinol)
5. Daily Power Defense
6. Complexion renewal pads

For those of you who know Channa, you will know that she is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to all the medical-grade skincare products we carry. Here is her regimen to maintain healthy and hydrated skin during pregnancy.

Channa’s current routine:

AM:

1. ZO Gentle Cleanser by ZO Skin Health
2. ZO Growth Factor Eye Serum by ZO Skin Health
3. TNS Advanced Serum (peptide and growth factor rich to compensate for no Botox or treatments) by SkinMedica
4. Phloretin CF (antioxidant-rich) by SkinCeuticals
5. Discoloration Defense (pigment inhibitor – to prevent pigment during pregnancy) by SkinCeuticals
6. HA Intensifier by SkinCeuticals
7. Triple Lipid Restore (skin has been quite dry during pregnancy) by SkinCeuticals
8. Physical Fusion (SPF sunscreen) by SkinCeuticals

PM:

1. ZO Gentle Cleanser
2. ZO Growth Factor Eye Serum
3. Retexturing Activator by SkinCeuticals or the Enzymatic Peel by ZO Skin Health (not on the same night) – to help exfoliate and turn over cells in place of retinol
4. Restorative Skin Complex (peptide rich to stimulate collagen production) by Alastin
5. Triple Lipid Restore by SkinCeuticals

Another product that is pregnancy safe and ideal to use in place of retinol is the SkinCeuticals Glycolic Brightening Renew Overnight. This nighttime glycolic acid cream delivers a true 4% glycolic acid value to promote cellular turnover for healthy, glowing skin.

As always, if you have specific questions about which products are right for you, book a consultation with one of our knowledgeable team members.

We look forward to honouring your beauty!

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