If, as a mother-to-be, you are wondering if you should avoid certain undesirable ingredients in your cosmetic products, it is more than complicated to know for certain which ones... and we understand you, it is a real jungle!
Here is a quick look at the active ingredients to put to one side, and suggestions for beauty routines adapted to take care of yourself in this period of great change.
- Active ingredients in cosmetic products to avoid during pregnancy
Essential oils: not to be confused with plant oils, essential oils are natural active ingredients derived from plants.
So you will have guessed it: just because they are natural ingredients does not necessarily mean they are a cure-all.. The reason? Essential oils pass through the blood, which serves as a vehicle to feed the future baby.
And unfortunately, some essential oils are too stimulating.
Ones to be absolutely avoided throughout pregnancy (and if you are breastfeeding): essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus or menthol eucalyptus, rosemary and camphor.
On the other hand, many essential oils are not a problem at all and can even relieve nausea, as is the case with ginger for example.
It is also important to keep in mind that the concentration of essential oils in your beauty products remains very low and they are also diluted with other ingredients, so let's not panic :-)
If in doubt, do not hesitate to ask professional advice or avoid them completely if you do not feel comfortable using them.
Retinol (or Vitamin A) and fruit acids: Retinol can be found in many products (cream, serum or oil).
This super active ingredient helps to fight against skin aging, persistent scars, or spots.
The problem is that it is very stimulating, so it should be avoided throughout pregnancy.
Fruit acids: it all depends on whether you used to use them before your pregnancy.
Salicylic acid should be avoided in high doses and when products containing it are not rinsed. It is also found everywhere: in your cleansers as well as in your moisturisers, skin oils or masks.
On the other hand, in small doses and rinsed after application (as in a scrub for example), its presence is not risky.
Bear in mind: all other exfoliants such as glycolic acids, lactic acids and AHA (fruit acids) are allowed in small concentrations, and if you have already used them before pregnancy :)