Becoming a mother, especially the first time, is nothing short of a miracle. It is one of the unparalleled joys of the world.
First of all, if you’re pregnant or hoping to be, congratulations and best wishes! This exciting journey of 9 months takes you through a lot of changes in your body: both physical and emotional. It is a time when your skin undergoes a lot of changes as well.
Since your baby consumes whatever you consume, pregnancy is a major factor in motivating many women to switch to clean beauty. The best way to achieve safe skincare goals would be to start using clean, well formulated products.
So where to begin is the big question - don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
HOW DOES SKIN CHANGE DURING PREGNANCY?
Pregnancy-related skin changes happen to most women. Hormones are largely responsible for this — it's one of those “normal” changes that come with the mama-to-be period.
While some lucky ladies experience 9 months of glowing complexion, others experience some new or worsening skin issues at some point. While you deal with preexisting skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea etc you may also have to deal with issues like stretch marks, itchy skin, hair growth or hair loss.
COMMON SKIN CONCERNS DURING PREGNANCY
During pregnancy, your body is basically a cocktail of hormones, getting stirred every now and then. Every body responds uniquely to hormonal changes and hence, glowing skin is not a standard outcome of every pregnancy. Many women also encounter some less exciting changes in their skin.
Following are some of the less pleasant changes which you may experience throughout different stages of your pregnancy:
#1 HYPERPIGMENTATION
Increased sensitivity to the sun and innumerable hormonal changes make your skin all over your body vulnerable to pigmentation. This means that certain areas of your skin appear darker. A variation of pigmentation that is common during pregnancy is melasma.
Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation characterized by symmetrical brown pigmentation on the face. It is caused by the excessive production of melanin.
One of the ways you could effectively fight pigmentation during pregnancy is by topical application of Vitamin C. Read to know Why Vitamin C Products are Your Skin's Holy Grail.
Vya Naturals Vitamin C Serum brightens your skin and fades pigmentation, while being safe for your skin and baby.
#2 PREGNANCY ACNE
If you thought that you left behind acne in your teenage years, this might come as a surprise to you. Hormonal changes, increased sensitivity and increased oil secretion can cause acne during pregnancy.
Niacinamide is a safe ingredient for moms-to-be to address acne issues. It is a form of Vitamin B3 that reinforces your skin barrier. As your skin tends to be more sensitive during this time, include topical application of Niacinamide to hydrate, repair and soothe your skin. Niacinamide for Skin: The Complete Beginner's Guide.
Use Vya Naturals 5% Niacinamide Serum or 10% Niacinamide Serum to fight hormonal acne. It contains Aloe Vera that helps to reduce inflammation. It is formulated with naturally derived, skin loving ingredients that pose no threat to you or your baby.
#3 DRY SKIN
Some pregnant women have to deal with dry skin at some stage during their pregnancy, especially during winters. Luckily, you only need to head to the kitchen to find some potent remedies for dry skin.
Hormonal changes, increased sensitivity as well as excessively dry skin can cause discomfort and itchiness/ flaking of skin during pregnancy. To keep dry skin at bay, we recommend topical application of Hyaluronic Acid. Everything You Need To Know About Hyaluronic Acid.
When it comes to skin plumping and hydrating, you can use Vya Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum. It works efficiently for all skin types in diminishing dryness and poses no threat to mom or baby.
IS PREGNANCY GLOW FACT OR MYTH?
Thinking of skin during pregnancy often leads us to “Pregnancy Glow”.
Pregnancy glow is neither a myth, nor a miracle. It is good old science. When you’re pregnant, your blood vessels expand as a result of higher oestrogen levels and other factors, which lead to an increase in blood circulation. This leads to more blood flow to the skin because of which expectant mothers sometimes enjoy glowing skin.
Not only do you look more radiant, but your face may even appear plumped up.
SKINCARE TIPS TO FOLLOW DURING PREGNANCY
#1 Consult your OB/GYN before you sign up for any skincare treatments:
First and foremost, it is ALWAYS important to check with your doctor and discuss the specific skin care you want to use. Certain over-the-counter actives and spot treatments are unsafe during pregnancy.
#2 Do Not Skip Your Skincare Routine Altogether:
It is poor skin hygiene to suddenly stop doing your skincare routine in the mistaken belief that acne and hyperpigmentation are imminent. Since your skin is more sensitive than usual, you need to watch your skin diet judiciously. Certain necessary antioxidants like Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C are necessary for maintaining the overall health and appearance of your skin. Do your morning and evening skincare routine without fail. Remember to exfoliate once a week.
#3 Why Moisturizer Is Your New Best Friend:
To avoid stretch marks, reduce itchiness and soothe dry skin, apply moisturizer or sweet almond oil frequently and liberally all over your body.
#4 Take Care Of Your Under Eyes:
The skin under your eyes is more sensitive as compared to the rest of your face. Physical and hormonal changes can take a toll on the skin under your eyes well. This may lead to fine lines, puffiness and dark circles. Use Vya Naturals Under Eye Serum to nourish your under eye area. It is formulated with Niacinamide, Caffeine, Olive extracts and Avocado oil. Furthermore read 5 Reasons You Need To Use An Eye Serum.
#5 Sunscreen Is All The More Important Now:
While every human being on this planet requires sunscreen, heightened skin sensitivity during pregnancy may make it more difficult for your skin to deal with sun damage. Never step out without applying a broad spectrum sunscreen all over your body with at least SPF30 and reapply it after every 2-3 hours. While it is preferred to use a physical sunscreen over a chemical sunscreen during pregnancy, consult with your doctor about the brand that you use.
#6 Skincare Ingredients To Avoid During Pregnancy:
While certain ingredients such as parabens, sulphates, silicones, artificial colors and fragrances should be avoided at all times, it is imperative to steer clear of them during pregnancy.
All Vya Naturals products are free of such toxic ingredients.
Vya Naturals Vitamin C face wash and handmade soaps do not contain any sulphates, which is a foaming agent in many cleansing formulations. Also read Why Is Handmade Soap Better?
Moreover, all our products are cruelty free and not tested on animals.
Vya Naturals is a pregnancy safe skincare brand.
Consult with your doctor about the safety of certain over the counter spot treatments and certain actives like retinoids, benzoyl peroxides and other skincare acids during pregnancy.
#7 Eat A Balanced Diet And Stay Hydrated:
A balanced diet and proper hydration are the golden rules for everyone who wants to have a healthy glowing skin. This is even more so during pregnancy. Always remember to balance your macro and micro nutrients as suggested by your nutritionist and drink adequate amounts of water.
CONCLUSION
Pregnancy is all about getting ready to welcome a new human being, but it can be tough on your body and skin. Making certain changes in your lifestyle ensuring that you use skincare products that are safe for your skin and baby is the key to enjoy a glowing skin throughout your pregnancy.
DISCLAIMER
All content in this blog is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Product and any other content information of this website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This blog is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do NOT replace any relationship that exists, or should exist, between you and a medical doctor or other healthcare professional. In the case of pregnancy, please consult with your health care professional before using any new product. Click here to read the complete disclaimer.