Pregnancy Skin Care: Is Lancôme Hydra Zen Safe?

Lancome's Hydra Zen Anti-Stress Glow Liquid Moisturizer is safe for use during pregnancy and nursing. Here is the list of ingredients:

> AQUA / WATER, GLYCERIN, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, OCTYLDODECANOL, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII BUTTER/SHEA BUTTER, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS SEED OIL/JOJOBA SEED OIL, BEHENETH-10, SQUALENE, GLYCOL PALMITATE, PCA, ALANINE, COCOS NUCIFERA OIL/COCONUT OIL, TOCOPHEROL, MACADAMIA TERNIFOLIA SEED OIL, HYDROXYACETOPHENONE, SODIUM POLYACRYLATE, SODIUM HYALURONATE, SODIUM PCA, SODIUM LACTATE, PAEONIA SUFFRUTICOSA ROOT EXTRACT, PHENYLALANINE, ARGININE, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL/SUNFLOWER SEED OIL, VALINE, PALMITOYL TRIPEPTIDE-8, XANTHAN GUM, MENTHOL, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE POWDER, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, PROLINE, ISOLEUCINE, ASPARTIC ACID, CORIANDRUM SATIVUM FRUIT OIL/CORIANDER FRUIT OIL, SORBITOL, SERINE, THREONINE, PASSIFLORA EDULIS SEED OIL, ROSA GALLICA FLOWER EXTRACT, HISTIDINE, CITRIC ACID, PRUNUS ARMENIACA KERNEL OIL/APRICOT KERNEL OIL, DEXTRAN, GLYCINE, PARFUM / FRAGRANCE

Pregnancy-safe skincare

Some ingredients to avoid during pregnancy include:

• Hydroquinone, which has a high systemic absorption rate.
• Tretinoin, for which the evidence is controversial.
• Salicylic acid and its derivatives.
• Retinoids.
• Chemical sunscreens.

It is always best to consult a physician if you are unsure about a product's safety during pregnancy.

• SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic and Phlorentin CF vitamin C serums.
• Lancôme Anti-Aging Serum.
• TATCHA Dewy Cream.
• TULA Instant De-Puff Eye Serum and Rose Glow + Get it Eye Balm (use code TAYMBROWN for 15% off).
• Dr. SkinFeed Rose Water Spray.
• Colleen Rothschild Cleansing Balm, Matcha Toner, and Complete Eye Cream.
• Summer Fridays Babymoon Belly Balm.
• SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Mask.
• Grown Alchemist Polishing Facial Exfoliant.
• Colleen Rothschild physical sunscreen.
• The Mighty Patch for pimples.

Pregnancy-safe makeup products include:

• Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Bronze.
• Nars Blush in Orgasm.
• Lancome Hypnose Mascara.
• Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow Palette.

Ingredients to avoid

When pregnant, it's best to be cautious about the skincare products you use. Some ingredients are absorbed through the skin and may pass into the bloodstream, potentially crossing the placenta and affecting the developing foetus.

• Retinoids (Retinol, Retinal, Retinyl, and some acne medications such as Roaccutane)
• Hydroquinone
• Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide (unless prescribed by a physician and used in moderation)
• Mercury
• Formaldehyde
• Chemical sunscreens (SPFs that contain oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, or octinoxate)
• Parabens

Pregnancy-safe alternatives

• SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
• Lancôme Anti-Aging Serum
• TATCHA Dewy Cream
• Colleen Rothschild Cleansing Balm
• SkinMedica Instant Eye Bright Cream
• SkinCeuticals Phlorentin CF
• Kiehl’s Face Oil

Pregnancy skin changes

Pregnancy can bring about a variety of skin changes, some more desirable than others. The infamous "pregnancy glow" is caused by increased blood flow and oil production, which can sometimes lead to acne. Increased melanin production can result in areas of darkened skin, especially on the face, known as "chloasma" or the "mask of pregnancy". Stretch marks, spider veins, and varicose veins are also common skin changes during pregnancy.

Pregnancy also affects hair growth, with many women experiencing thicker and healthier hair. However, hormones can also cause hair growth in unwanted places, such as the face or neck. These changes typically return to normal within six months after giving birth.

• To minimise the "mask of pregnancy", wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors, and avoid excessive sun exposure, especially during peak hours.
• To manage acne, maintain a strict cleansing routine with mild, fragrance-free products. Avoid abrasive scrubs and certain acne medications that may contain ingredients harmful to the fetus, such as isotretinoin and tretinoin.
• For stretch marks, exercise, hydration, and lotions containing vitamin E and alpha-hydroxy acids may help, although there is no proven method for prevention or eradication. Moisturising the skin can help reduce irritation.
• To alleviate dry, itchy skin, use a heavy moisturiser and avoid long, hot showers, which can strip the skin of natural oils. Oatmeal baths and anti-itch creams can also provide relief.

Postpartum skin-care

Pregnancy and postpartum are two of the most beautiful phases in a woman's life. However, these phases can also be challenging for a woman's skin. The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can lead to skin issues such as acne, melasma, redness, dryness, and sensitivity. These skin issues can persist or even emerge after giving birth.

• Gentle cleansing: Use a gentle, mild cleanser to wash your face twice a day. Avoid harsh soaps and cleansers that can strip your skin of its natural oils.
• Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer with SPF 30 or higher every day to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Choose a non-comedogenic moisturizer that won't clog your pores.
• Exfoliate: Use a gentle exfoliating scrub once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate your skin.
• Sun protection: Wear sunscreen every day, even if you're mostly indoors. Sun exposure can darken melasma and make it harder to fade. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within. Also, consider using a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air.
• Healthy diet: Eat nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. These foods can provide your skin with the vitamins and nutrients it needs to stay healthy and glowing.
• Consult a dermatologist: If you're struggling with persistent skin issues, consider consulting a dermatologist. They can recommend specific treatments or procedures to address your concerns.

Frequently asked questions