An error occured on the server, please try later or contact the customer service

You're in offline mode with a limited website functionality. Please check your network connection.

Javascript seems to be disabled in your browser. In order to get the best possible experience please enable Javascript and reload the page.

Professional Academy

SkinCeuticals Rewards

Log in
My cart

Main content

Back to Product Guides

ESSENTIAL SKIN CARE FOR PREGNANCY

Article Overview

As your body changes to accommodate your growing baby, you might find that there are changes to your skin, too. Read on for insights into how your skin changes during pregnancy, and how this affects your skincare routine including the different skincare ingredients to use and avoid during pregnancy. Needs vary from person to person so always consult your doctor if you are unsure about a product or ingredient.

The Hormonal Impact on Skin

Pregnancy triggers a dramatic increase in hormones oestrogen and progesterone to support infant development.

These changes, in addition to the physiological changes, naturally translate to changes to the skin, which translates into changes in the skin’s needs.

How The Skin Changes During Pregnancy

These hormonal changes manifest themselves in changes to mood, body and, of course, skin. A few changes to skin during pregnancy include:
Increased blood flow and oil production results in the pregnancy "glow", but it can also lead to breakouts and blemishes.
Skin loses a lot of moisture to accommodate the growing belly, which often leads to dry skin.
An increase in melanin can lead to darkened skin and pigmentation, often known as the pregnancy "mask".
Weight gain and other physiological changes also increase the physical pressure on the body, affecting energy levels. This can cause the skin to appear dull, and increase the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
Rapid weight gain in the stomach affects skin laxity and hydration.

Throughout all these changes, it’s important to keep well rested and reduce any strain or pressure on the body — for both mother and developing baby.

Navigating Skin Care During Pregnancy

Selecting the Right Skin Care Products

Naturally, as your body changes, the needs of your skin change too, and your skincare routine should reflect these changes. Small adjustments to your skincare routine can have a large impact on your skin’s overall appearance and condition.

Skin Care Ingredients To Embrace

A few skin care ingredients you can incorporate into your skin care include are:.

Hyaluronic Acid

Many pregnant women experience dry skin, so it's important to keep your skin extra hydrated and replenished. Hyaluronic acid provides vitamin B5 to the skin to help lock in moisture so the skin is soft and plump.

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) supports cell turnover. It acts as an exfoliating solution without the need to use harsher exfoliating treatments. Because skin can be dry during pregnancy, glycolic acid helps to remove any built-up dead skin cells and encourage smooth, bright skin.

Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is another AHA that is suitable to use during pregnancy. Similar to glycolic acid, this ingredient helps to promote the removal of dead skin cells to soften and smooth out skin.

Vitamin C

Given the extra workload on your body, skin can oftentimes appear tired, and there's a higher chance of visibly dark circles under the eyes. Vitamin C is a great active ingredient to help revitalise dull and tired skin.

Azelaic acid and benzoyl peroxide

Azelaic acid is often used to help with skin pigmentation as well blemishes. The ingredient can be a suitable alternative to salicylic acid treatments during pregnancy. Low doses of benzoyl peroxide are also used to target blemishes.

Skin Care Ingredients To Avoid

Avoid skin care products that contain these ingredients.

Retinoids

Animal and human studies have shown that retinoids can cause foetal retinoid syndrome, which can lead to serious birth defects. Professionals will advise against any prescription retinoids as well as any topical retinoids during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid skincare products containing retinol or vitamin A derivatives.

Salicylic acid

A Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) commonly used to target breakouts and blemishes, studies have shown high doses of salicylic acid in oral form can cause birth defects., and whilst very little is absorbed into the skin through topical application, it’s best to avoid using any products containing salicylic acid. The same goes for any chemical peels or treatments using salicylic acid.

Phthalates

Phthalates are found in some cosmetic products, nail polishes, lotions, shampoos and cleansers. Tests have found that should be avoided during pregnancy as they may be unsafe for the growing foetus.

Essential oils

Many health professionals advise against essential oils, as they can cross the placental barrier and potentially have adverse effects on the foetus. Because of the uncertainty and lack of controlled studies around essential oils and pregnancy, you should speak with a healthcare professional before using any essential oil to your regime.

Stretch marks

Can I prevent stretch marks during pregnancy?

Everybody responds differently to pregnancy and there is not a tried-and-true method to completely remove the chances of stretch marks. A healthy diet and lifestyle can potentially slow down the speed of pregnancy weight gain that causes stretch marks. Because the skin dries out quicker during pregnancy, hydrating skincare products, containing ingredients like glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid, can also minimise the chances of skin tearing as the body expands

With this in mind, it’s still important to remember that not all pregnant women can prevent stretch marks completely. Be compassionate with yourself as your body changes. What’s most important is the health and wellness of you and your baby!

Exfoliation

Is it safe to exfoliate my skin while pregnant?

Gentle exfoliants are suitable during pregnancy, but heavy exfoliating treatments are not recommended. Try an exfoliating cleanser like the Micro Exfoliating Face Scrub gently exfoliates to remove dead skin cells and cleanse pores for smooth, even skin.

Sun Protection

Which sunscreens are safe to use during pregnancy?

Sun protection is always essential to any skincare regime. In the case of pregnancy, most pregnant women experience darkening of skin on the face, often known as the pregnancy “mask”. This “mask” can be exacerbated by sun exposure, which is why sun protection is even more important.

Some sunscreen ingredients aren’t suitable to use during pregnancy, Avoid chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone, octocrylene and octinoxate, and look for products that use titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. We recommend adding the SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50+ to your regime.*

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.

Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection so wear protective clothing and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, towelling and perspiring in accordance with directions.

Building Your Pregnancy Skincare Routine

With ingredients in mind, it’s time to take a look at what your skincare routine may look like during pregnancy.

Morning Routine

Your morning routine is your time to revitalise and refresh your skin.

Gently cleanse your face to remove any impurities. The Glycolic Renewal Foaming Facial Cleanser is great for cleansing your face, breaking down dead skin cells and helping refresh the skin.
Follow with a toner to exfoliate and remove any impurities leftover from cleansing.
After toner, apply any serums with active ingredients. Serums with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are both great options for brightening and nourishing your skin.
Always finish your regime with a facial sunscreen like the Facial Defense Sunscreen SPF 50+.*

*ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.

Evening Routine

Rest and relaxation are imperative during pregnancy. As the skin goes into renew and restore mode, products that support this function are best.

Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any makeup and impurities from the day. We recommend the Glycolic Renewal Foaming Facial Cleanser.
Follow your cleanser with any serums you’re using. The Vitamin B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum provides extra hydration to support skin renewal. Especially important overnight!
Nourish your skin with a hydrating night cream, like the Renew Overnight Hydrating Moisturiser.

For a little extra pampering, treat your skin to a facial mask. We recommend the Clarifying Clay Mask to help soothe skin as well as gently exfoliate.

Always Listen To Your Skin

Remember that everyone’s skin responds differently to pregnancy, and you should always listen to your body when introducing new products into your regime. If you have any concerns about your skincare, speak to your healthcare provider for tailored recommendations.