Harmful Ingredients for Pregnancy

Expecting mothers or women who are thinking of becoming pregnant have a lot to consider and stress about. Not only to keep their unborn baby safe -- pregnancy brings about many changes in the skin. Many times pregnant women experience oilier skin, melasma, stretch marks, etc. And these skin care concerns are just a few of the many things women have to think about. More importantly, women should be considering the products they are using and whether or not the ingredients in these products are safe for their unborn child.

Hydroquinone is a well known bleaching or skin lightening agent. It is used to lighten hyperpigmentation that is commonly caused by melasma, also known as a pregnancy mask. Although effects of this drug on an unborn fetus are contraindicating, it is not recommended to use during pregnancy. Use of hydroquinone is advised to be halted until after pregnancy and after breastfeeding. Try a hydroquinone-free product if you are experiencing melasma, such as PCA Skin Pigment Gel HQ Free Dyschromia Controller – pHaze 13.

Aloe Vera is a very common soothing ingredient used in many skin care products, however is not advised to be used during pregnancy, as high levels may lead to miscarriage.

Essential oils or aromatherapy are not recommended during pregnancy, as many of these ingredients are said to be able to enter the bloodstream, and therefore could affect the baby. These ingredients should also be avoided until breastfeeding is stopped for safety precautions.

Retinoids, retinols or any forms of topical or internal vitamin A should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Vitamin A is used as an anti-aging ingredient an lotions, creams, gels, etc. It is very easily absorbed into the skin and is not yet fully tested for safety during pregnancy.

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid used in skin care products to treat conditions such as acne. Again, tests show that very high doses of this product should be avoided during pregnancy. Consider a product that does not contain salicylic acid, such as Dermalogica Dermal Clay Cleanser.

Soy is generally found in organic skin care products and should be avoided during pregnancy. Look for ingredients such as Lethicin, Phosphatidylcholine and textured vegetable protein, which are all considered a soy ingredient.

Consult with your obstetrician or mid-wife in regards to these products and ingredients. Safe alternative methods are always available and advised. Stay safe during your pregnancy while keeping this information in mind.