When my cousin got pregnant for the first time, it was a huge learning curve not just for her but for everyone around her, including myself. Being the beauty junkie that I am, I wanted to spoil her with tons of products until I discovered that not all body creams and acne treatments are good for women expecting. So what can you use and what do you need to stay away from?
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The trick to shopping for beauty products while pregnant is reading the labels. Chemicals that are placed on your skin are easily absorbable. Not only can they go into your bloodstream but they even have the potential to cross the placenta, affecting the baby. So you definitely want to make sure you stay away from products that contain phthalates which are found in most hair sprays and nail polishes. Salicylic acid, which is found in many acne and skincare products can also cause harm to your fetus. So to make your life a little easier, I rounded up a few beauty products that are safe to use during pregnancy. Check them out!
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Shampoo
Nine Naturals Citrus & Mint Nourishing Pregnancy Shampoo ($20) is designed especially for pregnant women but feel free to use it afterwards. This sulfate-free formula is made with lermon, lime extracts, soothing peppermint, jojoba seed oil and shea butter to help cleanse and deeply nourish hair. Your hair will feel stronger, look shiner and smell fresher after every use!
Acne treatment
Struggling with breakouts? Try Belli Acne Control Spot Treatment ($17). It's free of chemicals that might be harmful during pregnancy like salicylic acid, glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide and made with natural ingredients like tea tree oil and chamomile to help target pimples and manchas.
Soap
Castille soaps are super safe during pregnancy. Try Dr. Bronner's Magic Lavender Castile Bar Soap ($5). It smells amazing too!
Body oil
A lot of women I know swear by Bio-Oil ($15) to help treat and prevent stretch marks. It's formulated with vitamin A and E and safe for pregnant mamás.
Nail polish
Make sure you avoid nail polishes that contain toxic ingredients like phthalates or formaldehyde. I actually really like Zoya Nail Polish ($9). It's completely organic and the colors are gorgeous!
Cleanser
Use a gentle cleanser that's dermatologist recommended, like Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser ($8). It removes oils without drying out your face, t's non-comedogenic and fragrance-free.
Deodorant
Opt for an aluminum-free formula, like Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Deodorant with Lavender Oil ($7).
