Pregnancy Skin Care: Is Glow Recipe Safe?

Pregnancy-safe skincare can be confusing, and it's important to be cautious about what you put on your skin during this time. While studies in pregnancy are limited, doctors advise avoiding any potential risks. Vitamin A, for example, is known to cause birth defects and should be avoided.

Glow Recipe, a skincare brand, offers a range of products that are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. Their Avocado Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cleanser, for instance, nourishes the skin and replenishes its delicate barrier. However, it's always recommended to consult a doctor for specific advice on which ingredients and products are suitable for your individual needs during pregnancy.

Pregnancy-safe products from Glow Recipe

Pregnancy is a time when women need to be cautious about the skincare products they use. Doctors advise avoiding vitamin A in all its forms, and retinol, during pregnancy, as well as hydroquinone and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs).

Glow Recipe co-founder & new mom, Sarah Lee, has curated a routine that's not only quick, easy and effective but also safe for new or expecting parents. The following Glow Recipe products are safe for use when expecting or nursing:

• Guava Vitamin C Bright-Eye Gel Cream
• Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum
• Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
• Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream
• Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist

These products are free of retinol, BHAs, and hydroquinone.

In addition, the following Glow Recipe products are also considered safe during pregnancy:

• Papaya Sorbet Enzyme Cleansing Balm
• Avocado Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cleanser
• Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser
• Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
• Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum
• Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum
• Avocado Ceramide Recovery Serum
• Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream
• Watermelon Glow Pink Dream Body Cream
• Avocado Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cleanser

Ingredients to avoid during pregnancy

When you're pregnant, it's not just food that you need to be careful about. Many common beauty, cosmetic and skincare products contain ingredients that are best avoided during pregnancy.

• Vitamin A derivatives such as Retin-A, Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, Tazorac and Accutane can lead to dangerous birth defects and negatively affect your baby's development.
• Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are common ingredients in acne treatments but can have negative consequences if taken in large quantities. It's best to opt for acne treatments that use only one of these ingredients.
• Hydroquinone is a prescription product used to lighten skin or reduce skin pigmentation. While it hasn't been directly linked to severe congenital defects, it has a high absorption rate of 35-45%, so it's best to limit exposure during pregnancy.
• Phthalates are endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in many beauty and personal care products. Studies have linked phthalate exposure to serious reproductive and developmental dysfunction.
• Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that has been linked to an increased risk of infertility and miscarriage. Although it is rarely used in cosmetics today, there are still formaldehyde-releasing chemicals found in some beauty products.
• Oxybenzone and its derivatives are common ingredients in chemical sunscreens. However, oxybenzone is a known endocrine-disrupting chemical that can cause permanent damage to both mother and baby.
• Antibiotics such as tetracycline and its derivatives (doxycycline and minocycline) should be avoided during pregnancy as they have been shown to have negative effects on both mother and baby.
• Dihydroxyacetone is a chemical used in spray self-tanners. Although it is not absorbed into the body, it can be inhaled during application and is unhealthy for both mother and baby.

It's important to carefully read the labels of any skincare and cosmetic products you use during pregnancy and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

Pregnancy-safe ingredients

When it comes to pregnancy-safe ingredients, it's important to consult a doctor for specific advice. However, here is a list of ingredients that are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy:

• Vitamin C: This ingredient is known for its brightening properties and can help keep skin radiant.
• Kojic Acid: Kojic acid is another effective brightening agent, working alongside Vitamin C to enhance the skin's radiance.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrator, helping to maintain skin moisture and promote a plump, healthy complexion.
• Squalane: As a moisturiser, squalane helps to nourish and protect the skin, enhancing its natural glow.
• Glycolic Acid: This gentle acid can be used to brighten the skin and address issues such as acne and pigmentation.
• Lactic Acid: Lactic acid is another effective exfoliant, working to improve skin texture and tone.
• Azelaic Acid: Azelaic acid is particularly beneficial for those with breakouts and rosacea, as it helps to improve skin discolouration.
• Niacinamide: Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that offers brightening benefits and can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

While the above ingredients are generally considered safe, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating new products into your skincare routine, especially during pregnancy.

Glow Recipe products to avoid during pregnancy

When pregnant, it is important to be cautious and avoid any skincare products that may pose a risk to you or your baby. While studies in pregnancy are limited, doctors advise that it is better to be safe than sorry.

• Avocado Melt Retinol Eye Sleeping Mask: This product contains retinol, a form of vitamin A, which is known to cause birth defects.
• Strawberry Smooth BHA+AHA Salicylic Serum: This serum contains salicylic acid, which is derived from the aspirin family of medications. High doses of aspirin are not safe for pregnant women.
• Pomegranate Peptide Firming Serum: This serum contains Bidens Pilosa, which has a similar mechanism of action to a retinoid.
• Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Balm Sunscreen Stick: This sunscreen stick contains salicylate and chemical sunscreens, which are not recommended for use during pregnancy.
• Watermelon Glow Hyaluronic Clay Pore-Tight Facial: This facial mask contains willow bark, a natural form of salicylic acid, which should be avoided during pregnancy.
• Watermelon Glow PHA+BHA Pore-Tight Toner: This toner contains gluconolactone, salicylate, willow bark, and licorice root. While licorice root is safe for nursing mothers, it should be avoided during pregnancy.
• Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50: This sunscreen contains chemical sunscreens, which are not recommended for use during pregnancy.
• Avocado Ceramide Moisture Cleanser: This cleanser contains licorice root, which is safe for nursing but not recommended during pregnancy.
• Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser: This cleanser contains glycolic acid and licorice root. While glycolic acid is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, licorice root should be avoided.
• Cloudberry Bright Essence Toner: This toner contains licorice root, which is safe for nursing mothers but not recommended for use during pregnancy.

While the above products are best avoided during pregnancy, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or dermatologist for personalized advice and to ensure that any products you use are suitable for your specific needs and skin type.

Pregnancy-safe skincare routine

Pregnancy is a turbulent period, and it's not uncommon to experience breakouts, dryness, itchiness, and even dark patches on the skin. Here is a pregnancy-safe skincare routine to help you keep your skin healthy and glowing:

Cleanser

Opt for a gentle, non-irritating cleanser, such as a foaming cleanser, and wash your face twice a day. Avoid cleansers with harsh chemicals or exfoliating beads, as these can irritate your skin.

Moisturizer

• Use a light, oil-free moisturizer to help control shine.
• If you're experiencing dryness, apply a moisturizer immediately after bathing.
• Look for a good quality stretch mark cream or oil, and apply it to your skin 2-3 times per day.

Exfoliator

• Exfoliate once a week with a gentle exfoliating cleanser or scrub to remove dead skin cells and keep pores clear.
• You can use glycolic acid or lactic acid, which are considered safe during pregnancy.

Sunscreen

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy days, to prevent dark patches from getting worse.
• Opt for a tinted moisturizer with iron oxides, which protect the skin from visible light, instead of a traditional SPF.

Acne Treatment

• If you're experiencing acne, you can use benzoyl peroxide, which is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Salicylic acid is another powerful anti-acne ingredient, but it's best to consult your doctor before using it.

Other Tips

• Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing made of natural fibers like cotton.
• Use a mild, unscented laundry detergent.
• Avoid invasive beauty treatments such as chemical peels, Botox, fillers, and retinoids.
• Stick to simple massages, oils, and topicals that don't pose a threat to the baby.
• Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic products.
• Consult your doctor if you're unsure about any ingredients or treatments.

Frequently asked questions