To be able to create a whole new living human being from just a clump of cells to a living and breathing baby is a miraculous action that almost sounds fictional. For those who go through pregnancy, their journey may always differ greatly from another person. For some, their pregnancy may be smooth and calm (almost like a fairytale), and for the majority, pregnancy can mean experiencing weeks or months of nausea, hyperpigmentation, the appearance of cellulite, sore and swollen muscles and limbs, and many more discomfort. Learn more about cellulite during pregnancy.
Due to the discomforts that women may face throughout their pregnancy, it is important that they take good care of themselves in order to help lessen the stress on their body and thus allow for a smoother and calmer rest of their pregnancy and delivery.
A great way to treat this is by investing in a good self-care ritual that works for you. However, when creating a self-care ritual, it is important that you avoid certain skincare ingredients, seeing as there are some that can harm you or your baby.
Skincare ingredients to avoid during pregnancy
RETINOL
Retinol, also known as Vitamin A, is a fat-soluble vitamin that is great for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the production of collagen. However, studies show that when an excessive amount of retinol is used throughout one’s pregnancy, there is a higher risk for the baby to develop a malformation of its head, heart, brain, or spinal cord.
ALUMINUM CHLORIDE
This ingredient is most likely a very familiar one and you most likely already have it in your bathroom cabinet; antiperspirants and deodorants. While this ingredient is considered to be safe when used in lower concentrations, there have been recent cases where people who have used antiperspirants or deodorants with aluminum chloride in them were diagnosed with breast cancer.
PARABENS
In order to help increase the shelf life of products companies will use parabens to do so. Unfortunately, while this may help products last longer, parabens are known hormone disruptors and are also easily absorbed through the skin. If parabens are used during pregnancy, studies have shown that parabens can cause miscarriages, low birth weight, obesity, impaired fetal growth, and behavioral problems.
PHTHALATES
Found in products with synthetic fragrances and nail polishes; avoid diethyl and dibutyl especially.
THIOGLYCOLIC ACID
Found in chemical hair removers; can also be labeled acetyl mercaptan, mercaptoacetate, mercaptoacetic acid and thiovanic acid.
CHEMICAL SUNSCREENS
SPF is that one skincare secret to beautiful ageless skin that many don’t realize just how great it can be. However, chemical sunscreens can cause more harm than good if you are currently pregnant. Studies that shown that women who have used chemical sunscreens during their first trimester can absorb those harmful ingredients into their bloodstream and cause harmful cell changes in the fetus. That is why when using sunscreen, make sure to watch out for:
- Avobenzone
- Homosalate
- Octisalate
- Octocrylene
- Oxybenzone
- Oxtinoxate
- Menthyl Anthranilate
FORMALDEHYDE
This ingredient can be found in beauty products like hair straightening treatments, nail polish, and eyelash glue. Exposure to this ingredient can cause spontaneous abortions, congenital malformations, as well as premature birth.
DIETHANOLAMINE (DEA)
Found in hair and body products; stay clear of diethanolamine, oleamide DEA, lauramide DEA and cocamide DEA.
At Glo, we recommend our botanical legs revitalizing serum with 100% natural ingredients..
SERUM 910
What our product does:
- Anti-Edema: Powerful draining action that deflates the legs.
- Anti-Fatigue and decongestant: Lighten heavy legs.
- Stimulates microcirculation: Provides energy and vitality to the legs
- Reduces redness and varicose veins.
- Defines and refines the contour of the legs.
- Improves tone, hydration and texture, and the sensation of itching, tightness or thin skin.
- Prevents cellulite by improving micro-circulation and fluid retention.
- Helps skin feel smoother, less dry and fine.
Our serum is also made of natural ingredients extracted from plants like:
- Niosomal Troxerutin (encapsulated for maximun penetration)
- Butcher's broom
- Lemon
- Golden Rod
- Butterfly and Shea butter
- Grape seed oil
- Sunflower oil
- Essential Oils: Orange, Geraium, Eucalyptus, Grapefruit, Siberian Fir and Boswellia serrata.
