Wondering what cosmetics are safe during pregnancy?
Pregnancy brings significant physiological changes that also affect the mother's largest organ – the skin. Many of us have questions about how our daily skincare routines affect the developing fetus or, during breastfeeding, the baby. In this article, we'll discuss the use of cosmetics during pregnancy and provide tips on ingredients to prioritize.
However, it's important to remember that we are all individuals and react differently to ingredients. If you have concerns about using cosmetics during pregnancy and breastfeeding, always discuss them with a healthcare professional during maternity clinic or doctor's appointments, or choose products specifically developed for the needs of expectant mothers.
Skin permeability and fetal safety
In scientific discussions about cosmetic safety, systemic absorption is often mentioned. Most cosmetic ingredients remain in the uppermost layers of the skin (epidermis) and do not enter the bloodstream (if they did, it would be a medicinal substance). However, during pregnancy, skin permeability can change due to hormonal activity, and the most sensitive stages of fetal development make the precautionary principle justified.
Ingredients that researchers and dermatologists have noted
Although the European Union's Cosmetics Regulation is one of the strictest in the world and ensures that only safe products reach the market, researchers and dermatologists recommend avoiding or limiting the use of certain active ingredients:
1. Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives)
While the risk from topically applied cosmetics is small, due to the precautionary principle, retinoids (such as Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate) are recommended to be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
2. Chemical sunscreen filters
Certain traditional chemical filters (such as oxybenzone) have been linked in some studies to endocrine disruption. For this reason, mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are often a more recommended option. Mineral sunscreen, or physical sunscreen, reflects UV radiation away from the skin, forming a protective barrier on the skin's surface without being absorbed into the skin.
3. Strong acids and preservatives
High concentrations of strong exfoliating acids – typically AHA and BHA acids (such as glycolic or salicylic acid) – can irritate sensitive skin and are recommended to be avoided.
4. Essential oils
Essential oils, even those used in natural cosmetics, are recommended to be paused during the first trimester of pregnancy. As pregnancy progresses, moderate use of essential oils is safe according to research, provided they are properly dosed – for example, as part of a ready-made oil or cream.
Benefits of natural cosmetics for expectant mothers
Generally, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is recommended to use cosmetics in moderation, as skin blood circulation can increase during pregnancy, and thus the absorption of substances into the skin can be more active than usual. Natural cosmetics do not contain silicones, mineral oils, or synthetic fragrances, which minimizes unnecessary chemical exposure.
In addition, nutrient-rich plant oils (such as almond or oat oil) often used in natural cosmetics naturally contain vitamins and antioxidants that support the skin's protective barrier without strong synthetic chemicals.
Natural cosmetics, such as Days by Dahlia products, offer a safe alternative to synthetic active ingredients. Natural cosmetics utilize plant oils and extracts whose molecular structure is often close to the skin's own fats.
Informed choices for pregnancy skincare
Pregnancy skincare does not require a complete lifestyle overhaul or replacing all the jars in your medicine cabinet, but rather informed choices. Synthetic cosmetics are not inherently more dangerous or worse, but natural alternatives often offer gentler and proven pure ways to care for skin and hair undergoing changes amidst hormonal shifts.
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HUS, Teratological Information Service - Drug counseling for expectant and breastfeeding mothers
https://www.hus.fi/potilaalle/nain-saat-apua/teratologinen-tietopalvelu-odottavan-ja-imettavan-laakeneuvonta/muut