We know that we can pass along harmful toxins through the blood placental barrier from mom to fetus. We know that what we put on our skin can pass through to our blood. While awareness is there, reliable information and community to help you navigate this new phase is often not available. Luckily, Perelel and Furtuna Skin are working to create transparency and make it easier for you to make informed, empowered decisions when it comes to your health.
Read on for our complete guide to building your pregnancy skincare routine.
Pregnancy Skin Changes
Skin during pregnancy changes rapidly and unexpectedly. It’s a ride, so give yourself grace. At Furtuna Skin, our modular approach to creating personalized skincare systems is the perfect solution to solve rapidly changing skincare needs. We even have a skincare quiz to help you immediately identify the perfect product for whatever you are facing. All Furtuna Skin products are pregnancy and breastfeeding-safe, so no matter which ones you choose, you’re in good hands. Of course, I must note that we always recommend speaking with your physician or OB/GYN prior to using any new products during this careful time. To help with transparency, Furtuna Skin always provides comprehensive ingredient lists for our EWG-verified products to share with your medical or birthing support team.
During the first trimester of pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes, including hormonal changes that can affect the skin. The most common skin changes during this time include:
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Acne
Increased levels of androgens (male hormones) during pregnancy can lead to an increase in oil production, which can result in acne breakouts. -
Dryness
Hormonal changes can also cause the skin to become dry, itchy and flaky. -
Sensitivity
Pregnant women may find that their skin is more sensitive than usual, especially to certain products and ingredients. -
Hyperpigmentation
Some pregnant women develop dark patches of skin on their face, known as melasma or "pregnancy mask." This is due to increased melanin production, which can be triggered by sun exposure or hormonal changes. -
Stretch Marks
As the belly grows, the skin may stretch, leading to the development of stretch marks.
It's important to note that not all women will experience these skin changes during the first trimester, and some may experience them to a greater or lesser degree than others.
No matter the condition or changes of your skin, it is always important to begin with a clean, basic skincare routine with ample nutrients and building blocks for healthy, vibrant skin. As a starting point, I recommend the Furtuna Skin Cleansing Oil Balm ($85) and Biphase Moisturizing Oil ($225). Those two products are the perfect foundation, then layer on and around those to treat your specific concerns—from acne to dryness.
Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
This is the time to remove any products from your routine that include parabens, petroleum or fragrance in their ingredient lists. When it comes to being proactive about maintaining benefits from some harsher ingredients you may be using—like retinol or salicylic acid—just sub them out.
Here’s a quick list of the most commonly found culprits in skincare and beauty products.-
Retinoids
Retinoids are a class of vitamin A derivatives that are commonly used in anti-aging skincare products. However, studies have shown that high doses of vitamin A can be harmful to the developing fetus, so it's best to avoid all forms of retinoids during pregnancy. Bakuchiol and milk thistle are natural alternatives to retinoids that have proven to have similar anti-aging effects on the skin, including reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They are derived from seeds and are gentler on the skin than retinoids. Try Furtuna Skin Revitalizing Eye Cream ($225) to experience the benefits of these natural retinol alternatives for skincare first hand. -
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in acne treatments, but high doses of salicylic acid have been associated with birth defects. Willow bark extract is a natural source of salicylic acid and is a milder alternative to synthetic salicylic acid. It has anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties that can help to unclog pores and reduce acne. Perhaps surprisingly, one of the best treatments for acne is wildly potent, anti-inflammatory and soothing olive oil skincare for acne. -
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that is used to treat hyperpigmentation. However, studies have shown that it may be harmful to the developing fetus, so it's best to avoid it during pregnancy. Vitamin C is a natural skin-lightening agent that can help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. It works by inhibiting the production of melanin in the skin and promoting collagen production. You’ll find this in the Furtuna Skin Biphase Moisturizing Oil ($225). - Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a preservative that is commonly found in nail polishes and hair straightening treatments. It has been linked to developmental problems in the fetus, so it's best to avoid it during pregnancy. Formaldehyde-free nail polishes and hair straightening treatments are now available and can be used as a safer alternative to traditional products. -
Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals that are commonly used in fragrances, lotions, and other personal care products. Some studies have suggested that exposure to phthalates during pregnancy may be associated with developmental problems in the fetus. Essential oils such as magnolia oil are safe and gentle on the skin and have therapeutic properties that can help to soothe and heal the skin. Always choose pregnancy safe essential oils, like the magnolia found in the Furtuna Skin Replenishing Balm ($225) and Biphase Moisturizing Oil ($225).
Build Your Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Routine
When building your pregnancy-safe skincare routine, these three superstar products create the perfect foundation.
First, the Furtuna Skin Cleansing Oil Balm ($85) a powerful makeup remover and gentle double cleanse in one step. Some experience pregnancy acne caused by an excessive production of sebum (oil) which is known to happen due to a greater number of certain hormones and dehydration. An oil balm won't strip the skin barrier of its natural oils and nutrients and will help boost hydration, improve moisture retention, and strengthen the skin barrier.
Next, the Furtuna Skin Biphase Moisturizing Oil ($225) is a rich and nutrient-packed serum and moisturizer in one and comprehensive approach to pregnancy dark spots and acne.
Finally, the Furtuna Skin Replenishing Balm ($225) is a deeply nourishing night mask with the ancient and calming scent of magnolia oil. It’s important to manage stress during pregnancy and this mask creates a beautiful ritual. Skincare routines give you a beautiful opportunity to rest and reset. Be religious about it, and take as much time for yourself as you can. Anywhere from two to 20 minutes is enough time to take deep breaths, focus on things that bring you joy, de-stress, and elevate your oxytocin levels with positive thinking.
And above all, don't forget to give yourself grace during this time. Pregnancy can bring about many unexpected changes in the body—and skin changes are no exception. It's important to remember that these changes are natural and can happen to anyone, regardless of how well they take care of their skin. Be patient and allow your skin to adjust to these changes over time.
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Looking to make the switch to a clean skincare routine? Use code PERELEL20 for 20% off your order at Furtuna Skin now. Plus, nourish your body inside and out with vitamins made by doctors for your exact stage of motherhood.
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and we recommend that you always consult with your healthcare provider. To the extent that this article features the advice of physicians or medical practitioners, the views expressed are the views of the cited expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Perelel.