Look beautiful, mom-to-be!
Congratulations if you've just discovered you're having a baby! Now that there's a baby along the way, you're likely to be bombarded with advice on everything from what to eat, how to dress and how much to exercise. In the midst of this din it's easy to forget about the skin care regimen you should follow at this time.
According to a 2007 review in the American Family Physician, the natural glow that many women seem to get at the start of the pregnancy is due to the increased blood circulation that causes skin to brighten. However the avalanche of fluctuating hormones bring their share of skin problems ranging from stretch marks, spider veins and varicose veins to increased hair growth, skin darkening, and brittle nails. While most of these problems do settle down after the baby is born, it's important to tackle them when they first appear. After all, having a baby is a joyful event, not a time to be unhappy about the way you look.
You should start using anti-stretch mark creams long before the baby bump becomes evident because these creams have rich emollients that keep skin supple and itch-free. Prevent or reduce skin darkening, such as pigmentation or dark patches by using sunscreen every day. Use it even while indoors and remember to reapply every couple of hours if you are outdoors.
If excessive hair growth is bothering you, have regular waxing sessions. However, it's advisable to avoid electrolysis, laser treatment, depilatories and bleach. You should regularly trim, moisturize, polish, manicure and pedicure your nails. Keep the nails short so that you don't end up scratching itchy stretch marks without realizing it.
Many women complain of spider or varicose veins at this time because the increasing weight puts excess pressure on the legs. You can prevent this by increasing your intake of vitamin C, wearing support stockings, exercising regularly and propping up your feet any chance you get. Try not to stand at one place for long, and keep your weight gain within limits.
Skin complaints such as acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis or candida may either completely clear up or worsen after conception. Occasionally pregnancy-related health problems can cause itching, skin or hair changes. Consult your gynecologist if you notice obvious changes.
However, there are certain common skin product ingredients that are not recommended when a baby is on the way.
Play safe by stashing away these top eight no-no ingredients for pregnant women:Retinoids: Found in many prescription treatments for acne and wrinkles; Phthalates: Present in nail/cuticle treatments, lipstick, anti-aging products and fragrance; Parabens: Found in moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner, anti-aging products, sunscreens, astringent/toner and makeup; Fragrances: Avoid perfumed moisturizer, lipsticks, deodorants and fragrances; Toluene: Found in nail products Formaldehyde: Present in ail-strengthening and cuticle treatments, hair color/bleaching and styling gels and lotions; P-phenylenediamine: Present in hair color/bleaching, hairspray, shampoo and conditioner; and Oxybenzone: Found in sunscreen..
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